The US Embassy in Saudi Arabia renewed its security alert for the third consecutive day on Monday, warning American citizens of heightened risks following a series of reported attacks by Houthi militia targeting airports across the kingdom.
The latest notice, issued on October 12, cited additional attacks on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh and a targeted attack on King Fahd International Airport in Dammam on Sunday.
The embassy had issued similar alerts on October 10 and 11 as security concerns mounted around Saudi Arabia’s aviation hubs.
Americans urged to prepare for travel disruptions
The US mission advised American citizens to exercise “extreme caution” when using major airports in the kingdom, warning that flight cancellations, airspace closures and other disruptions could affect travel plans.
It urged travellers to check flight information directly with airlines and airports and consider private cars, trains and buses as alternatives where appropriate.
US government employees in Saudi Arabia must obtain special authorisation to use King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh and airports in Jeddah and Dammam, according to the embassy.
The mission also advised Americans to remain alert, monitor local media and follow instructions issued by Saudi authorities in the event of an aerial attack.
Restrictions tightened in high-risk areas
The embassy said US government employees were prohibited from travelling within 32 kilometres (20 miles) of the border with Yemen because of security risks.
Special authorisation is also required for official travel to the provinces of Jizan, Asir and Najran, as well as the cities of Qatif, Yanbu and Taif.
The warning follows a series of attacks on Saudi civilian airports that the Saudi-led coalition supporting Yemen’s internationally recognised government has blamed on the Houthi militias.
According to figures cited in the supplied report from Saudi authorities and diplomatic sources, weekend attacks on Riyadh’s airport killed 14 people and injured 320 others.
The coalition has vowed a firm response to the attacks, raising concerns about further escalation and the potential impact on civilian infrastructure and regional travel.
