The United States has warned of possible further attacks on major Saudi Arabian airports, urging travellers to exercise extreme caution amid escalating security threats, flight disruptions and the risk of airspace closures.
In a security alert dated October 11, the US Mission in Saudi Arabia said it was aware of additional attacks on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh and a targeted attack on King Fahd International Airport in Dammam.
“Please take extreme caution when using all major airports in Saudi Arabia,” the mission said in the alert.
It advised American citizens to prepare for flight cancellations, airspace closures and other travel disruptions, urging passengers to confirm their departure status directly with airlines and airport authorities.
The mission also recommended alternative means of transportation, including private cars, trains and buses, while advising travellers to verify schedules and availability with service providers.
It identified Saudi Arabia Railways, SAT Transportation and SAPTCO as possible transport options.
The warning followed a series of attacks on Saudi aviation facilities that have disrupted operations and heightened security concerns across the kingdom.
Deadly Riyadh airport attack
The latest warning came after a deadly strike on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh on Saturday, October 10, killed at least 12 people and injured more than 300 others, according to Saudi authorities.
The Saudi civil aviation authority reported 309 injuries following the attack, which was described as the deadliest such strike in the kingdom in more than a decade.
The death toll subsequently rose after another person injured in the attack died, according to reports.
A further attack on Sunday, October 11, killed one person and injured 11 others at the Riyadh airport, according to Saudi authorities.
The Saudi-led coalition fighting in Yemen said an unidentified projectile targeted the airport’s Terminal 4, causing a fire. Saudi air defences also intercepted a cruise missile near the airport.
The attacks have raised concerns about the safety of civilian aviation facilities as fighting involving Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthi movement and Saudi-backed forces intensifies.
The Houthis have also warned airlines, travellers and airport workers to stay away from Saudi airports and airspace.
US imposes additional travel restrictions on personnel
Beyond the warning to travellers, the US Mission outlined restrictions affecting American government employees stationed in Saudi Arabia.
According to the alert, personnel require special authorisation to use King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, as well as airports in Jeddah and Dammam.
Employees were also prohibited from travelling within 20 miles of the Yemen border because of security risks.
Additional authorisation was required for travel to Jizan, Asir and Najran provinces, as well as the cities of Qatif, Yanbu and Taif.
The restrictions reflect concerns about the wider security environment, particularly in areas considered vulnerable to attacks or affected by regional hostilities.
The mission said routine and emergency consular services remained available to American citizens.
Flight disruptions expected to continue
The attacks have created uncertainty for passengers travelling through Saudi Arabia, particularly those connecting through Riyadh, one of the kingdom’s principal aviation hubs.
Airlines have cancelled flights, while airport closures and security restrictions have complicated travel arrangements. The Houthis’ warning against using Saudi airports has added to concerns over further disruption.
Passengers have been advised to check directly with their airlines before travelling to airports and to monitor official updates for changes to departure schedules.
The US warning also underscores the potential for the security situation to affect travel beyond the immediate locations targeted.
Although alternative transport options may be available for some journeys, travellers have been urged to confirm their availability before making arrangements.
The mission’s alert did not provide a specific timeline for when the threat might subside, leaving passengers and airlines facing continued uncertainty as authorities respond to the latest attacks.
