The UK Foreign Office (FCDO) has updated its advice to warn against all but essential travel to Saudi Arabia, citing attack threats from Yemeni military group, the Houthis, and potentially Iran.
The Houthis have launched missiles and drones at several locations across the Kingdom, and the FCDO has warned of a ‘heightened threat against airports’. Further airport attacks, along with disruption and cancellations, are ‘very likely’, it added.
The update follows a serious incident at Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport at approximately 3pm local time on 10 October. Brits are advised to stay away until the airport is secure and to follow instructions from the Saudi authorities.
Those wishing to leave are urged to consider crossing by land to a neighbouring country and flying from there, rather than using Saudi airports.
The FCDO also warned that renewed Iranian attacks remain possible. The US and Iran announced a memorandum of understanding on 17 June in relation to the conflict in the Middle East, but the FCDO said the situation remains ‘unpredictable’, with a risk of further attacks or escalation in the region.
Brits in Saudi Arabia are urged to follow the guidance of local authorities, including early warning alerts from Saudi Civil Defence, and to monitor local and international media for updates. The FCDO also recommends signing up for its email alerts and reading its crisis guidance on preparing for and dealing with an emergency abroad, which includes suggested emergency supplies.
Travellers should avoid sharing images of conflict–related incidents, stay away from oil infrastructure and military facilities, and keep their plans and travel documents under review. Those flying are advised to confirm their booking and check flight status before heading to the airport.
If told to take shelter, the FCDO said people should go to the nearest safe building or designated shelter, ideally an interior stairwell or a room with few external walls or windows, as the greatest risk comes from falling debris caused by interceptions.
