UK urges travellers to avoid Saudi airport after attack and Houthi strikes

The UK's Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has told British nationals to stay away from King Khalid International Airport until it is secure, following what it describes as a serious incident there on 10 October 2026 at about 3pm local time. Travellers are told to follow advice from the Saudi authorities.

The warning forms part of updated travel advice for Saudi Arabia, revised on 17 October 2026 to reflect the latest regional tensions.

Key facts

• Advice updated 17 October 2026, still current at 20 October 2026
• The FCDO advises against all travel to within 10km of the border with Yemen
• It advises against all but essential travel to the rest of Saudi Arabia
• British nationals are urged to stay away from King Khalid International Airport until it is secure
• Travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against FCDO advice

What is changing?

The FCDO says the Houthis, a military group in Yemen, have launched missiles and drones at several locations in Saudi Arabia since 13 July. It warns of a heightened threat against airports, Saudi military and defence buildings, military bases, ports and energy infrastructure across the country, naming Abha, Jizan, Najran, Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam and Yanbu, as well as shipping in the Red Sea.

Further attacks on airports, along with disruption and cancellations, are described as very likely.

Who is affected?

The advice is aimed at British nationals in or travelling to Saudi Arabia. Anyone flying is told to check that their booking is confirmed and the status of their flight before travelling to the airport, and to remain alert and follow instructions from local authorities.

The FCDO suggests that British nationals wishing to leave Saudi Arabia could consider travelling by land to a neighbouring country and flying from there. It advises planning such journeys carefully and checking the entry and exit requirements of each country involved.

Why is this happening?

Beyond the threat from Houthi attacks, the FCDO says there remains the possibility of renewed attacks by Iran. The US and Iran announced a memorandum of understanding on 17 June 2026 relating to the conflict in the Middle East, but the situation is described as unpredictable, with a risk of further attacks or escalation. Before the ceasefire, the Iranian regime stated its intention to target locations associated with the US and Israel, including organisations, businesses, facilities and institutions.

What this means for travellers

Travellers in Saudi Arabia are advised to follow the local authorities — Saudi Civil Defence may issue early warning alerts to people in affected areas — and to monitor local and international media. The FCDO also tells people to keep travel plans under review, make sure travel documents are up to date, and sign up for its travel advice email alerts.

Other guidance includes staying away from areas around oil infrastructure and military facilities, avoiding capturing or sharing images of conflict-related incidents, and reading official guidance on preparing for a crisis abroad, including suggested emergency supplies.

If told to shelter, the advice is to stay indoors or go to the nearest safe building or designated shelter. An interior stairwell or a room with as few external walls or windows as possible may offer extra protection, and the greatest risk is described as falling debris caused by interceptions.

Anyone who does travel is urged to research their destination and take out appropriate travel insurance covering the itinerary, planned activities and emergency expenses. No travel can be guaranteed safe, the FCDO notes.