is Saudi Arabia safe to travel right now (2026)

Although it's still generally a safe destination for visitors, terrorist attacks and instability have heightened concerns. However, you're unlikely to experience any problems in the main cities of Riyadh, Jeddah and Dammam. Be extra vigilant close to the border with Yemen, as the conflict there's ongoing and likely to continue.

• Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam are generally safe for tourists.
• Avoid areas within 80km of the Yemen border, including Najran and Jizan.
• terrorism threat and missile risk continues and the US State Department and UK FCDO have increased their travel warning to increased caution.
• Major cities remain open to tourism, but monitor local news for updates.
• Ensure travel insurance covers conflict-related incidents.

Current Situation Overview

Safety & Security Update (Last revised on 17/10/2019) As of 2026, the safety position in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, remains stable in all but a few locations. The capital city, Riyadh, the Port city of Jeddah and the Eastern province city of Dammam, have never had any cause for concern from local or international visitors. Travel to the provinces of Najran & Jizan just over the border from Yemen, due to military action in these areas, is highly advised against. Officially the country is now open to tourists but it's vital to remain aware of travel alerts and guidelines issued by foreign ministries of governments worldwide.

Official Travel Advisories

Government travel advisories offer valuable insights into travel safety in Saudi Arabia. The US State Department has elevated its Level 3 travel advisory (increase your awareness and/or exercise increased caution) for Saudi Arabia, indicating a higher risk of crime and/or violence including terrorism and rocket attacks. The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advises against all travel to all areas within 80km of the border with Yemen. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) also recommends that tourists refrain from travelling to conflict affected areas.

Safe Areas vs Areas to Avoid

Safety in Saudi Arabian cities such as Riyadh, Jeddah and Dammam generally is high, with plenty of security and amenities available to visitors. Border areas with Yemen such as the provinces of Najran and Jizan are currently considered no go due to ongoing fighting between government troops and rebel militants.

Impact on Tourists and Daily Life

For visitors the conflict in South Yemen has little impact apart from close to the border with Yemen. In the major cities life goes on as normal with cultural events and tours continuing. However all laws and customs must be respected to avoid potential arrest. it's wise to follow local media to stay informed about any changes to the security situation in the country.

Flight and Transportation Status

Flights to and within the Kingdom have largely been unaffected, with airports in Riyadh, Jeddah and Dammam operating on a regular basis and flight schedules maintained. it's always best to confirm with your airline for any flight disruptions. In the cities, the public transport system is generally reliable, however it's recommended to make use of licensed taxis or transportation services.

Insurance and Coverage During Conflict

As we mentioned earlier it's highly recommended to get travel insurance which includes conflicts. If you're planning to travel to any places which have been warned by your government not to travel there, you should get a check from the travel insurance company if they cover such areas. Apart from the travel insurance, having an international health insurance will ensure that in case of an emergency, the costs of the medical treatment will be fully covered.

Emergency Contacts and Embassy Information

All travellers should be aware of the local emergency telephone numbers for Saudi Arabia: Police – 999, Ambulance – 997 and Fire – 998. Important contact for Indian nationals: The Indian Embassy in Riyadh & the Indian Consulate in Jeddah. The Embassy is located in the Diplomatic Quarter. Their telephone number is +966 11 488 4144. The Consulate is located at 925 Tahlia Street, Jeddah, with the telephone number +966 12 261 4093.

Local emergency: 999, Indian Embassy: +966 11 488 4144, MEA helpline: +91-11-23012113

Tips for Indian Travelers/Expats Specifically

In the meantime, Indians travelling abroad, working or studying in Saudi Arabia, are advised to keep a low profile, abide by local regulations and follow local customs. While Indians living in major cities in Saudi Arabia seem to be relatively safe, the Ministry has asked them to remain informed through the Indian Embassy / Consulate about developments in the kingdom and requested them to get in touch with the Embassy/Consulate at the special 24 x 7 helpline numbers. Indians have also been advised to keep in touch with their community associations etc, so that they're updated on the ground situation.

What to Do If You're Already There

If you're currently in Saudi Arabia we recommend monitoring the media for developments and following the advice of the government. We advise against travel to the border region with Yemen, and recommend that people comply with any enhanced security measures that are in place. In the event of an incident, local authorities should be contacted and the embassy/consulate of the country of destination informed. We also recommend considering advance planning for emergency evacuation from the country.

Should You Cancel Your Trip?

When planning or have already booked a trip to Saudi Arabia you may well be thinking about whether or not to cancel the trip. Depending on where you were intending to visit your decision will vary. Travel to major cities like Riyadh, Jeddah and Dammam can still be carried out with care and with an awareness of the situation. However travel to areas close to the border with Yemen should be reconsidered and altered if possible. Please refer to the travel advisory section for more up-to-date travel information.

Frequently Asked Questions

• This date is based on Abroad's forecasts for travel risks in Saudi Arabia for 2026. Abroad considers travel to Saudi Arabia to be safe in all areas except for parts of the border region near Yemen. We will continue to monitor the situation closely.
• What should I do in case of an emergency? Contact local authorities using emergency numbers and inform your embassy.
• Does civil war mean that flights to Saudi Arabia are discontinued? Presently flights to the Kingdom are running and should airlines adjust these services, we will let you know.
• Can I get travel insurance for Saudi Arabia? Yes, but this needs to include cover in the event of an insurgency or civil disorder.
• How to get help in Saudi Arabia if you're an Indian citizen? You can reach out to the Indian Embassy/Consulate.
• The following is a list of places you should avoid while in Saudi: Provinces bordering Yemen - namely Najran and Jizan.
• Haslam: Are there any cultural considerations? Haslam: Yes, sir. The dress code varies in various cultures. Yes, you can run into legal situations if you choose not to abide by that. Local customs should be respected as well.

Information changes frequently. We recommend that you check with your government (e.g. US State Department, UK FCDO or Indian MEA) for travel advice for Saudi Arabia before making your trip.

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