Houthi Attacks on Saudi Arabia Prompt U.S. Departure Order for Non-Essential Staff

Attacks on Saudi airports are forcing travel changes. The U.S. has ordered non-essential government staff to leave the country. Here are the routes still open.

Iranian-backed Houthis have carried out attacks against Saudi Arabia, targeting civilian airports and other critical infrastructure. The attacks have caused civilian casualties and severe travel disruptions. The U.S. Embassy warns that the hostilities could spread beyond the immediate area.

Effective October 23, 2026, the State Department ordered non-emergency U.S. Government employees and their family members to leave Saudi Arabia due to safety risks. Staff who remain need special authorization from the Chief of Mission to use any airport in the country. They are also barred from traveling within 20 miles of the Yemen border, and need special authorization to visit the provinces of Jizan, Asir and Najran, or the cities of Qatif, Yanbu and Taif.

Riyadh's King Khalid International Airport partially reopened on October 23, but only for domestic flights and some international flights run by national carriers. Some flights normally based in Riyadh are operating from Prince Naif bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Qassim. Jeddah and Dammam international airports are operating, with delays and cancellations.

The embassy points to trains, buses and private cars as alternatives. Land border crossings and highways in Riyadh, Jeddah and Dhahran remain open. Airports in Bahrain, Jordan, Oman, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates are also operating.

Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Interior warns that filming, publishing or sharing information about missiles, drones and their impact sites can carry legal liability. U.S. Citizens have been detained for taking photos of government buildings, airports and impact sites. Citizens should follow alerts issued by Saudi Civil Defense.