Saudi Arabia
Regional risks
This section has safety advice for regions of Saudi Arabia. It only covers regions where FCDO has specific advice.
You should also read FCDO’s overall travel advice and safety and security advice.
Saudi Arabia-Yemen border and threats from the Houthis
FCDO advises against:
- all travel to within 10km of the border with Yemen
- all but essential travel to areas between 10km and 80km from the border with Yemen
Following the conflict in 2015 between Saudi-led coalition forces and the Houthi militant group in Yemen, there are still occasional military clashes along the border with military and civilian casualties.
The authorities can temporarily close airports near the Saudi Arabia-Yemen border. Check with your airline before travelling to airports near the border.
As of July 2026, there is a renewed threat from the Houthis to attack Saudi infrastructure and Abha International Airport was targeted. Previously, the Houthis have launched missiles, drones and waterborne improvised explosive devices (IEDs) into Saudi Arabia targeted at critical national infrastructure, including aviation and oil infrastructure. Attacks have also been made on other locations in Saudi Arabia, including Riyadh and Jeddah, and along the Red Sea coast. The Houthis have also launched drones and missiles at Israel that have entered Saudi airspace.
In a missile or drone attack, you should:
- stay indoors and under hard shelter
- monitor local media reports - follow the advice of the local authorities
Military zones and border posts
The Saudi Tourism Authority has banned tourist trips to military zones and border posts.