The UK government has advised against all but essential travel to Saudi Arabia in an updated statement following deadly strikes earlier this month.
On Saturday, 10 October, at least 13 people were killed and hundreds injured in a strike on Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport.
As a result, the UK government has released advice on how to leave the country without flying.
The resumption of direct military conflict in July between the Houthi rebel military group and the governments of Yemen and Saudi Arabia.
Here’s the latest travel advice for Saudi Arabia, plus all the key questions and answers.
Is it safe to travel to Saudi Arabia?
The UK’s Foreign Office (FCDO) updated its travel advice on Saturday, 17 October, telling British citizens it advises against all but essential travel for almost the entire country.
This is an upgrade from a few weeks ago, when the attacks first started, when only certain cities and areas of Saudi Arabia were under this travel advisory.
The FCDO continues to advise against all travel to within 10km of the Yemen border.
What is the government’s advice?
“We advise British nationals to avoid King Khalid International Airport until it is secure and to follow the advice from the Saudi authorities,” the FCDO says.
The FCDO explains that since 13 July 2026, the Houthis have launched missiles and drones targeting several areas of Saudi Arabia.
“There is a heightened threat against airports, Saudi military and defence buildings, military bases, ports and energy infrastructure across Saudi Arabia, including Abha, Jizan, Najran, Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam and Yanbu, as well as shipping in the Red Sea.
“Further attacks against airports as well as disruption and cancellations are very likely.”
It adds that in addition to the threat of Houthi attacks, there remains the possibility of renewed attacks by Iran.
British nationals should read the government’s crisis abroad page, sign up to FCDO travel advice email alerts and monitor local and international media for the latest information.
The FCDO also suggests refraining from capturing or sharing images of conflict-related incidents.
The advice also adds that British nationals should stay away from oil infrastructure and military facilities in Saudi Arabia.
People should also follow advice from the local authorities. Saudi Civil Defence may issue early warning alerts to people in affected areas.
If advised to take shelter, stay indoors or find the nearest safe building or designated shelter. An interior stairwell or a room with as few external walls or windows as possible may provide additional protection. The greatest risk is from falling debris caused by intercepts.
Are flights departing from Saudi Arabia?
There are flights departing from Saudi Arabia, and the main airports in Jeddah, Medina and Dammam are open for arrivals and departures. However, airports are showing widespread cancellations as of Monday, 19 October.
The latest statement from the Saudi Arabia aviation authority was released on 12 October, and said that the suspension of operations at Riyadh airport had been extended. Reuters reported the airport would stay shut until 17 October. It is unclear what the airport’s current status is as of 19 October, as data from FlightRadar24 does not show clear flight data.
The FCDO advises that if someone chooses to travel by air, they should check that their booking is confirmed and the status of their flight before travelling to the airport. Travellers should remain alert and follow instructions from local authorities.
How can I leave Saudi Arabia without flying?
Rather than using Saudi Arabia’s airports, the FCDO says that British nationals wishing to leave Saudi Arabia should consider travelling by land to a neighbouring country and flying from there.
The FCDO says: “If you judge it is safe to do so, plan your journey carefully, including checking travel advice for the country you are considering to travel through, and any entry and exit requirements to make sure you have the correct documentation and not be denied entry.
“If travelling by car, the vehicle must be wholly owned and registered in your name. If using commercial transport, check the latest updates from your airline or tour operator and ensure they can transport you across the border, follow instructions from the local authorities and check the status of border crossings before you travel. Make sure you have access to emergency supplies, water and essential medication. Travel within or out of Saudi Arabia is at your own risk.
“Vehicle authorisations can be issued through the Absher portal, allowing another person, including dependants aged 18 and over, to drive your vehicle in Saudi Arabia or abroad. Drivers with a valid Exit/Re-Entry Visa must cancel it before the authorisation can be issued.
“Some bus services, private hire taxis and other vehicles may offer cross-border travel. Check schedules, confirm bookings and make sure the operator has the necessary permissions to cross the border. Before you travel, check where your transport will leave you. Some border crossings do not have onward transportation, and facilities can be extremely limited.”
The FCDO points to SAT Transportation for bus services.
What does the US government say?
The US State Department currently has an orange level three “reconsider travel” warning for Saudi Arabia. It also advises a red level 4 “do not travel” warning for the Saudi-Yemen border.
The US embassy in Saudi Arabia also issued an update on 18 October, stating that Americans in the Middle East should exercise heightened vigilance due to the “complex security environment”.
“Be aware of potential flight cancellations, airspace closures, and travel disruptions.”
“Americans travelling to or from the Middle East should monitor information about airport and airline operations and develop contingency plans in advance,” the embassy said.
Can I cancel my trip to Riyadh?
Should you decide to cancel a flight ticket, holiday, tour or excursion to Saudi Arabia, speak to your travel provider.
As the FCDO advises against all but essential travel – urgent family or business commitments –to the country, you may be able to cancel a package holiday without penalty for a full refund.
Package holidays must follow the Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018, with refunds issued if there has been a “significant change at your destination” before you travel.
Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the FCDO.
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