Saudi Arabia
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Warnings and insurance
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:
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all travel to within 10km of the border with Yemen
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all but essential travel to Aseer province, Riyadh province, Najran province, Jizan province and Taif city and Taif International Airport.
Find out more about why FCDO advises against travel.
Regional tensions
Following a serious incident at King Khalid International Airport on 10 October 2026 at approximately 1500 (local time), we advise British nationals to avoid King Khalid International Airport until the airport is secure and to monitor the advice of the Saudi authorities.
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, military bases, ports and energy infrastructure across Saudi Arabia, including Abha, Jizan, Najran, Riyadh, Jeddah and Yanbu, as well as shipping in the Red Sea. Further attacks against airports are very likely. Follow Saudi Civil Defence alerts. See ‘Regional risks’ page.
British nationals currently in the Middle East should be prepared for possible flight cancellations, periodic airspace closures, and potential travel disruption, and should:
- read If you’re affected by a crisis abroad - GOV.UK. This includes guidance on “how to prepare for a crisis” with suggestions on what you might include in your emergency supplies and “what to do in a crisis”
- follow advice from the local authorities and sign up to FCDO Travel Advice email alerts
- refrain from capturing or sharing images of conflict-related incidents
- monitor local and international media for the latest information, including updates relating to airports and airspace which could close at short notice
- stay away from areas around oil infrastructure and military facilities. Exercise caution at transport hubs
- keep your travel plans under review and ensure your travel documents are up to date
- before you travel, check that your route does not include travelling through areas or airports where FCDO advises against all but essential travel and, if it does, consider whether your travel is essential
- if travelling by air, check that your reservation is confirmed and the status of your flight before travelling to the airport. Remain alert at airports and follow instructions from local authorities
- if you are advised to take shelter, stay indoors or find 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 intercepts, and you are safest inside a secure structure
- Saudi Civil Defence may issue early warning alerts to people in affected areas
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 in the Middle East remains unpredictable. In addition to Houthi strikes since 13 July, there have also been strikes and retaliatory attacks by Iran since 8 July in a number of locations across the region against US military and civilian infrastructure. There is a risk of more attacks and unforeseen escalation in the region. Before the ceasefire, the Iranian regime had stated its intention to target locations associated with the US and Israel, including organisations, businesses, facilities, and institutions.
Before you travel
No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to:
- see general advice for women travellers
- read our guide on disability and travel abroad
- see general advice for LGBT+ travellers
- read about safety for solo and independent travel
- see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad
Travel insurance
If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.
About FCDO travel advice
The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.
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