Saudi Arabia travel advice

FCDO notice

Regional tensions

King Khalid International Airport was struck by a missile on 10 October 2026. The airport continues to be targeted and remains at risk of further attacks.

Since 13 July, the Houthis (a military group in Yemen) have launched missiles and drones targeting several locations in 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.

As an alternative to airports within Saudi Arabia, British nationals wishing to leave Saudi Arabia should consider travelling by land to a neighbouring country and flying from there. Plan your journey carefully, including checking the travel advice for any entry and exit requirements. See ‘Regional risks page’ for more information on land routes.

In addition to the threat from Houthi attacks, there remains the possibility of renewed attacks by Iran. The US and Iran announced a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on 17 June 2026 in relation to the conflict in the Middle East. However, the situation remains unpredictable and there is a risk of further attacks or escalation in the region. Before the ceasefire, the Iranian regime stated its intention to target locations associated with the US and Israel, including organisations, businesses, facilities, and institutions.

In light of the regional tensions, British nationals in Saudi Arabia should:

• read If you’re affected by a crisis abroad - GOV.UK. This includes guidance on “how to prepare for a crisis” including suggestedemergency supplies and “what to do in a crisis”

• sign up for FCDO Travel Advice email alerts

• follow advice from the local authorities. Saudi Civil Defence may issue early warning alerts to people in affected areas

• monitor local and international media for the latest information

• avoid capturing or sharing images of conflict-related incidents

• stay away from areas around oil infrastructure and military facilities

• keep your travel plans under review and ensure your travel documents are up to date

• if travelling by air, check that your booking is confirmed and the status of your flight before travelling to the airport; remain alert and follow instructions from local authorities

• if you are advised to take shelter, stay indoors or go to 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 interceptions, and you are safest inside a secure structure

Warnings (from the FCDO, word for word)

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).

Areas where FCDO advises against travel  

FCDO advises against:

• all travel to within 10km of the border with Yemen  

• all but essential travel to the rest of Saudi Arabia

Find out more about why FCDO advises against travel.

From FCDO: warnings and insurance.

Passport validity

For entry into Saudi Arabia, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive. 

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.  

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen. 

Previous travel to Israel

You may not be allowed to enter Saudi Arabia if your passport shows that you have travelled to, or were born in, Israel.

From FCDO: entry requirements. Written for British passport holders.