Saudi Arabia
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Regional risks
This section has safety advice for regions of Saudi Arabia. It only covers regions where FCDO has specific advice.
You should also read FCDO’s overall travel advice and safety and security advice.
Saudi Arabia-Yemen border and threats from the Houthis
In 2026, direct military conflict between the Houthi rebel military group and the Governments of Yemen and Saudi Arabia has resumed.
FCDO advises against:
- all travel to within 10km of the border with Yemen
- all but essential travel to Aseer province, Riyadh province, Najran province, Jizan province and the cities of Taif, Jeddah and Dammam
- all but essential travel to all airports within Saudi Arabia except for Medina International Airport
As an alternative to airports within Saudi Arabia, British nationals wishing to leave Saudi Arabia should consider travelling by land to a neighbouring country and flying from there. If you judge it is safe to do so, plan your journey carefully, including checking travel advice for the country you are considering to travel through, and any entry and exit requirements to make sure you have the correct documentation and not be denied entry.
If travelling by car, the vehicle must be wholly owned and registered in your name .If using commercial transport, check the latest updates from your airline or tour operator and ensure they can transport you across the border, follow instructions from the local authorities and check the status of border crossings before you travel. Make sure you have access to emergency supplies, water and essential medication. Travel within or out of Saudi Arabia is at your own risk.
Vehicle authorisations can be issued through the Absher portal, allowing another person, including dependants aged 18 and over, to drive your vehicle in Saudi Arabia or abroad. Drivers with a valid Exit/Re-Entry Visa must cancel it before the authorisation can be issued.
Some bus services, private hire taxis and other vehicles may offer cross-border travel. Check schedules, confirm bookings and make sure the operator has the necessary permissions to cross the border. Before you travel, check where your transport will leave you. Some border crossings do not have onward transportation, and facilities can be extremely limited.
- Bus service: SAT Transportation
- Bus service: SAPTCO - Saudi Public Transport Company
Military zones and border posts
The Saudi Tourism Authority has banned tourist trips to military zones and border posts.
In light of the regional tensions, British nationals in Saudi Arabia should:
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read If you’re affected by a crisis abroad - GOV.UK. This includes guidance on “how to prepare for a crisis” with suggested emergency supplies, and “what to do in a crisis”
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sign up for FCDO Travel Advice email alerts
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follow advice from the local authorities; Saudi Civil Defence may issue early warning alerts to people in affected areas
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monitor local and international media for the latest information
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avoid capturing or sharing images of conflict-related incidents
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stay away from areas around oil infrastructure and military facilities
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keep your travel plans under review and ensure your travel documents are up to date
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if travelling by air, check that your booking is confirmed and the status of your flight before travelling to the airport; remain alert at airports and follow instructions from local authorities
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if you are advised to take shelter, 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 additional protection; the greatest risk is from falling debris caused by interceptions, and you are safest inside a secure structure