Britain extends Saudi travel warning across entire kingdom

The British government has issued a nationwide travel warning for Saudi Arabia due to escalating missile and drone attacks by Yemen's Houthi movement. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) expanded its warning on Friday to cover all of Saudi Arabia, including major cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam. The advisory remained in effect for a 10-kilometer radius around the Saudi-Yemen border.

The FCDO emphasized the heightened threats to airports, military and defense facilities, ports, and energy infrastructure throughout the kingdom. British nationals are advised to reconsider non-essential travel unless absolutely necessary. The warning follows a deadly attack on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh on October 10, where a missile strike killed 13 people and injured over 300.

In response, Saudi authorities intercepted additional aerial threats, including a cruise missile near the capital's airport and a drone in the Eastern Province. The Houthis claimed responsibility for targeting Saudi aviation facilities and energy infrastructure, warning of potential further strikes. Several international airlines have suspended or reduced flights to Saudi destinations, causing disruptions for travelers.

British nationals must monitor official announcements and check directly with airlines before attempting to travel, as airport conditions may change rapidly. The FCDO also advises British nationals already in Saudi Arabia to follow local authorities, keep travel documents up to date, and review their departure plans. Any travel against the FCDO warning can invalidate insurance policies, potentially leaving visitors without coverage for medical treatment, cancellations, or emergency assistance.

The attacks have heightened tensions in the Middle East, and the FCDO stresses that further escalations could lead to additional disruptions.