The United States Embassy in Riyadh issued a security alert on 1 August 2026, warning US citizens of a heightened threat environment in Saudi Arabia. The State Department’s country-level advisory for Saudi Arabia remains at Level 3 — Reconsider Travel — due to ongoing regional instability linked to the Yemen conflict and the risk of Houthi missile and drone attacks on Saudi territory.
What the alert says
The Embassy’s specific message flags increased risk at large public gatherings, tourist sites with high foot traffic, shopping centres, and hotels frequented by Western visitors. The alert does not designate any individual attack but references credible threat reporting received in the preceding 72 hours.
US citizens are advised to:
- Avoid large crowds and public events without advance security assessment
- Keep a low profile and vary routines
- Carry emergency contact details for the Embassy at all times
- Enrol in the Smart Traveller Enrollment Program (STEP) if not already registered
- Know the location of the nearest hospital and Embassy shelter points
Citizens of other Western countries should consult their own foreign ministry travel advisories, though several — including the UK FCDO and Australia’s Smartraveller — already carry “high degree of caution” or equivalent notices for Saudi Arabia.
Regional context
Saudi Arabia has experienced a series of Houthi cross-border strikes over the past several months, with previous incidents targeting Abha Airport (July 14) and Gulf air corridors (July 19 EASA notice). The August 1 alert does not specifically name an airport or military site as a target but reinforces the general threat level across the Kingdom.
Mecca and Medina: Both holy cities remain accessible to Muslim pilgrims. Non-Muslims are not permitted to enter the two Haramain cities. Pilgrims should be aware that security protocols around the Grand Mosque are stringent and unchanged.
What to do if you are currently in Saudi Arabia
Stay alert in any crowded environment. If you are in Riyadh or Jeddah, follow local news via Saudi state media and the Embassy’s social channels for real-time updates. Our Saudi Arabia safety guide covers the general security landscape in more detail, including which regions carry the highest and lowest risk.
Travellers due to fly into Saudi Arabia should check directly with their carrier. To date no airlines have announced additional suspensions beyond the KLM withdrawal from Riyadh and Dammam routes announced in late July. For an overview of carriers and routes, see our flights to Saudi Arabia guide.
We will update this page if the threat level changes or specific locations are named.