SAUDI Arabia has been targeted by missile attacks over the weekend – some of which hit the King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh.
It has led to a change in FCDO advice – so what happens if you have a holiday booked, or a flight stopover?
What is happening in Saudi Arabia?
Over the weekend, Houthi forces in Yemen launched an attack on in Saudi Arabia’s capital city, Riyadh.
Missiles hit its major airport, King Khalid International Airport, killing at least 14 and injuring over 300 on the weekend.
It is considered the deadliest attack on the Gulf Arab kingdom in over 10 years.
Another attack earlier took place earlier this morning.
Is it safe to travel to Saudi Arabia right now?
The FCDO advises against all travel to parts of Saudi Arabia.
It read: “Following a serious incident at King Khalid International Airport on 10 October 2026 at approximately 1500 (local time), we advise British nationals to stay away from King Khalid International Airport until the airport is secure and to monitor the advice of the Saudi authorities.”
It adds that it advises against:
- all but essential travel to all airports within Saudi Arabia except for Medina International Airport
- 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
It continued to say: “There is a heightened threat against airports, military bases, ports and energy infrastructure across Saudi Arabia, including Abha, Jizan, Najran, Riyadh, Taif, Jeddah and Yanbu, as well as Saudi shipping vessels in the Red Sea.”
“Further attacks against airports are very likely. Follow Saudi Civil Defence alerts.”
Are flights still going to Saudi Arabia?
King Khalid International Airport closed on Saturday following the missile strikes and remains closed with flight disruption across the region.
While the Saudi Arabia air space remains open, there is a high risk of short-notice airport closures, diversions and airspace disruption.
Reuters has reported that certain airlines have suspended flights to Riyadh.
Lufthansa Group has suspended flights to Riyadh until October 16.
Air France-KLM has halted services to the Saudi capital until the end of the month.
Emirates which flies Brits to Riyadh via Dubai has been affected by cancellations.
What if I’m currently in Saudi Arabia?
The FCDO advice reads that any British national in the Middle East should prepare for flight cancellations and possible airspace closures.
The advice also states:
- follow advice from the local authorities and sign up to FCDO Travel Advice email alerts
- refrain from capturing or sharing images of conflict-related incidents
- monitor local and international media for the latest information, including updates relating to airports and airspace which could close at short notice
- stay away from areas around oil infrastructure and military facilities. Exercise caution at transport hubs
- keep your travel plans under review and ensure your travel documents are up to date
- before you travel, check that your route does not include travelling through areas or airports where FCDO advises against all but essential travel and, if it does, consider whether your travel is essential
- if travelling by air, check that your reservation is confirmed and the status of your flight before travelling to the airport. Remain alert at airports and follow instructions from local authorities
- if you are advised to take shelter, stay indoors or find the nearest safe building or designated shelter. An interior stairwell or a room with as few external walls or windows as possible may provide additional protection. The greatest risk is from falling debris caused by intercepts, and you are safest inside a secure structure
- Saudi Civil Defence may issue early warning alerts to people in affected areas
Head here to read the latest guidance on ‘how to prepare for a crisis’ and what to include in emergency supplies.
What if I have a holiday booked and can I cancel my trip?
Before you cancel a flight or holiday booking, speak to your travel provider first – especially if it’s a stopover flight as it may be rerouted.
In places where the FCDO advises against all but essential travel, you may be able to cancel a package holiday and get a full refund.