US orders non-emergency staff to leave Saudi Arabia amid Houthi attacks

On October 23, the US Department of State enacted a directive for non-emergency US government personnel and their families to depart Saudi Arabia due to safety concerns stemming from Houthi attacks. This order became effective on October 23, as outlined in a security alert released by the US Embassy in Riyadh on October 25. The embassy highlighted the threat posed by Iranian-backed Houthi forces, who have inflicted civilian casualties and caused significant travel disruptions, with the warning that hostilities could intensify swiftly.

US government employees in Saudi Arabia now require special authorization from the Chief of Mission to utilize any airport within the country following recent missile and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) strikes on airports. The embassy cautioned US citizens about the possibility of further attacks, airspace closures, flight cancellations, and travel disruptions.

It advised travelers to exercise extreme caution when utilizing Saudi airports and to verify their flight status directly with their airline and the airport prior to travel.

King Khalid International Airport (RUH) in Riyadh partially resumed operations on October 25, permitting domestic flights and select international services operated by Saudi national carriers. However, airport operations remain constrained. Passengers are urged to verify their bookings and flight schedules with their respective airlines before arriving at the airport.

King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) in Jeddah and King Fahd International Airport (DMM) in Dammam are operational, though both are experiencing delays and cancellations. The US Embassy reiterated its advisory in light of ongoing Houthi missile and drone attacks targeting Saudi Arabia, encompassing civilian airports and critical infrastructure.

Travelers are advised to stay informed about updates from official airlines and airports, as evolving security circumstances could result in additional alterations to flight schedules and airport operations.