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Concerns have been raised over travel to the Middle East after Yemen’s Houthi rebels launched missile and drone attacks across Saudi Arabia.
The UK government says some civilians have been injured after the launches targeted several cities, airports, military bases and energy infrastructure sites across Saudi Arabia, including in Riyadh and Jeddah, as well as Saudi shipping vessels in the Red Sea.
Warnings have been issued over a risk of more attacks and escalation. But despite the conflict, the UK has not issued any “do not travel” warnings for most of Saudi Arabia. The only region that is affected is the border with Yemen.
Here’s the latest travel advice for Saudi Arabia, plus all the key questions and answers.
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Is it safe to travel to Saudi Arabia?
The UK’s Foreign Office (FCDO) advises against travel to within 10km of the Yemen border. It also advises all but essential travel to areas between 10km and 80km from the border with Yemen, and extends to include the cities of Abha and Khamis Mushait in Aseer province.
Other areas of the country currently do not have a travel advisory issued, including the capital, Riyadh and the holy pilgrimage city of Mecca.
What is the government’s advice?
The FCDO warns of a risk of more attacks and escalation in Saudi Arabia. Saudi Civil Defence issues early warning alerts to people in affected areas.
During a missile or drone attack, it is advisable to stay indoors and under hard shelter, to monitor local media reports and follow the advice of the local authorities.
British nationals should read the government’s crisis abroad page and sign up to FCDO travel advice email alerts.
The FCDO also suggests refraining from capturing or sharing images of conflict-related incidents.
The advice also adds to exercise caution at transport infrastructure, including ports and airports. British nationals should stay away from oil infrastructure and military facilities
Travellers should keep their departure plans under review and ensure their travel documents are up to date.
If 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.
The FCDO also warns of a risk of more attacks and unforeseen escalation in the Middle East in relation to the conflict between Iran and the US, despite a memorandum of understanding announcement in June.
What does the Saudi government say?
Saudi Arabia issued a string of emergency alerts across the kingdom, including its capital, late Friday and early Saturday.
The country confirmed on Saturday that it intercepted a ballistic missile fired at Riyadh on Saturday, but did not confirm any further strikes or casualties.
Are flights running to and from Riyadh?
On Saturday, a column of black smoke was seen rising from fuel tanks near Riyadh’s international airport, temporarily disrupting flights.
As of Monday morning, flights to and from the airport are operating as normal, according to FlightRadar24.
The FCDO says that authorities can temporarily close airports near the Saudi Arabia-Yemen border. Check with your airline before travelling to airports near the border.
British nationals currently in the Middle East should be prepared for possible flight cancellations, periodic airspace closures, and potential travel disruption.
Can I cancel my trip to Riyadh?
As the FCDO has not warned against non-essential travel to Saudi Arabia, there will be no special circumstances in place to be able to cancel a trip for a full refund.
The conditions for cancelling your trip will be dependent on your holiday provider, so it’s best to contact them if you’re looking to postpone.
There is no obligation for companies to refund bookings if you want to cancel, and you will not be able to claim on your travel insurance due to safety concerns unless government advice changes.
If you do have travel insurance, some policies include natural disaster cover for an event that prevents you from reaching your holiday destination. Check your insurance policies and speak to your insurer to see where you stand.
Read more: Saudi Arabia confirms Yemen's Houthi rebels tried to attack its capital with a ballistic missile
