U.S. Embassy renews Saudi airport security alert for third day, urging Americans to use extreme caution as Houthi attacks disrupt travel

The U.S. Embassy in Saudi Arabia renewed its security warning on Monday, October 12, for a third consecutive day after attacks targeted airports in Riyadh and Dammam, advising Americans to exercise “extreme caution” at major airports across the kingdom.

The embassy’s latest alert cited further attacks on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh and an attack on King Fahd International Airport in Dammam on Sunday. It warned that flight cancellations, airspace closures and other disruptions could affect travel, and urged passengers to check directly with airlines and airports. Private cars, trains and buses were suggested as alternatives where appropriate.

The mission also advised U.S. citizens to stay alert, monitor local media and follow Saudi authorities’ instructions in the event of an aerial attack. U.S. government employees need special authorization to use airports in Riyadh, Jeddah and Dammam. They are barred from traveling within 32 kilometers of the Yemen border, and require special authorization for official travel to Jizan, Asir and Najran provinces and the cities of Qatif, Yanbu and Taif.

Saudi authorities have reported a toll of 14 dead and 320 injured in attacks on Riyadh’s airport over the weekend, according to figures cited in the supplied report. The Saudi-led coalition supporting Yemen’s internationally recognized government has blamed the attacks on Houthi forces and vowed a firm response.

Saudi Arabia’s civil aviation authority said King Fahd International Airport in Dammam was targeted on Sunday and that damage assessments and safety inspections were underway. The U.S. State Department’s Saudi Arabia travel advisory, issued October 10, also warned of missile and drone threats and set out restrictions on U.S. government employee travel.