Key facts
- UK advises against all but essential travel to Saudi Arabia.
- Heightened threat against airports, military sites, ports, and energy infrastructure across Saudi Arabia.
- Further attacks against airports and disruptions are very likely.
- British nationals advised to avoid King Khalid International Airport until secure.
- Consider overland travel to neighboring countries to leave Saudi Arabia.
The United Kingdom's Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has updated its travel advice, now recommending that British citizens avoid all but essential travel to Saudi Arabia. This updated advisory, issued on October 16, 2026, expands on previous warnings that were limited to specific regions and cities.
The FCDO continues to advise against all travel within 10km of the border with Yemen. The latest warning highlights a heightened threat against various locations across Saudi Arabia, including airports, military and defense buildings, military bases, ports, and energy infrastructure in cities such as Abha, Jizan, Najran, Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, and Yanbu, as well as shipping in the Red Sea.
Further attacks on airports and significant disruptions are anticipated. The FCDO also noted the possibility of renewed attacks by Iran, following a memorandum of understanding between the US and Iran on June 17, 2026, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of the situation and the risk of escalation. British nationals in Saudi Arabia are urged to stay informed, follow local authority advice, and consider alternative travel arrangements if seeking to leave the kingdom.