US orders non-emergency staff and families to leave Saudi Arabia amid airport attacks
The State Department has instructed non-emergency US government employees and their families to depart Saudi Arabia because of safety risks linked to recent airport attacks.
Effective Oct. 23, the US Department of State directed all non-emergency US government employees and their family members to leave Saudi Arabia, warning of heightened safety risks after Iranian-supported Houthi forces have targeted civilian airports and critical infrastructure. Employees who stay must receive explicit authorization from the Chief of Mission before using any Saudi airport, following recent missile and drone assaults.
Travelers are cautioned about potential attacks, airspace shutdowns, flight cancellations and broader travel disruptions. King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh has partially resumed domestic flights and limited international services, while Prince Naif bin Abdulaziz International Airport handles a few diverted flights. King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah and King Fahd International Airport in Dammam remain operational but experience delays and cancellations. US citizens are advised to verify flight status directly with airlines and airports.
Why it matters
US personnel and travelers face increased danger from Houthi attacks on Saudi airports, prompting evacuation and travel restrictions.
How this story developed
- Oct 19 Egyptian Parliament Pushes Back Vote on Military Aid to Saudi Arabia
- Oct 26 Parliament approved the military aid measure after previously postponing the vote.
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