Houthi Attacks | Internet, Oct. 13: King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh will remain closed until October 17 amid heightened security concerns following reported attacks attributed to Yemen’s Houthi movement.
A Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued on Monday, October 12, extended the suspension of airport operations. Saudi Arabia’s General Authority of Civil Aviation is assessing the safety and operational readiness of the airport in coordination with relevant authorities.
The reported attacks on October 10 and 11 have heightened concerns over aviation security in the region. Saudi authorities reportedly said the attacks killed at least 13 people and injured 320 others. These casualty figures and the circumstances of the attacks have not been independently verified here.
The closure has disrupted domestic and international air travel. Airlines have cancelled flights, leaving passengers uncertain about their travel arrangements.
Houthi Attacks | US Embassy Issues Travel Advisory for Saudi Airports
The US Embassy in Saudi Arabia said American government employees must obtain special authorisation before using any airport in the kingdom.
Security Alert: U.S. Mission Saudi Arabia (October 12, 2026)
U.S. government employees working in Saudi Arabia require special authorization to use any airport in Saudi Arabia.
U.S. citizens should be aware of potential flight cancellations, airspace closures, and travel disruptions. We recommend checking your flight departure status directly with the airline and with the airport. Please take extreme caution if you choose to use airports in Saudi Arabia.
Private car, train, and bus options may provide alternatives to air travel. Below are some transportation resources for your consideration. Please confirm availability and schedules directly with the providers.
– Saudi Arabia Railways: https://t.co/aXJ0z4Qcwy
– SAT Transportation: https://t.co/WP25alCywq
– SAPTCO: https://t.co/ZadKUfSCgq
Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Interior continues to warn that “filming, publishing, or sharing information related to counter missiles and drones and their impact sites exposes you to legal liability.” American citizens have been detained for taking photos of recent events. Visitors and residents are subject to local laws while in Saudi Arabia.
U.S. Government Employee Travel Restrictions:
U.S. government employees working in Saudi Arabia require special authorization to use any airport in Saudi Arabia. U.S. government employees working in Saudi Arabia are not allowed to travel within 20 miles of the Yemen border due to safety risks and need special authorization for travel to the provinces of Jizan, Asir, Najran, and the cities of Qatif, Yanbu, and Taif.Read more: https://t.co/ngJV0dd1Yu
— U.S. Embassy Riyadh (@USAinKSA) October 12, 2026
The embassy also urged US citizens to exercise extreme caution if they choose to travel through Saudi airports.
The advisory comes as authorities continue to assess the security situation and possible risks to aviation infrastructure.
Passengers planning to travel through Riyadh have been advised to check directly with their airlines for updated flight information and rescheduling arrangements. They should also follow official airport and government advisories before travelling.
The duration of the disruption will depend on the outcome of the ongoing security assessments and decisions by Saudi aviation authorities.
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