Some major international events have nevertheless been affected by the wider regional situation. The Red Sea International Film Festival, which had been scheduled to take place in Jeddah in December 2026, has been postponed until the fourth quarter of 2027. Organisers said the decision followed a review of a range of considerations, including the logistical requirements involved in staging an international event of its scale. Soundstorm festival, due to take place in Riyadh on December 3 and 4, has also been cancelled.
What is the Saudi government’s latest advice?
Saudi authorities have continued to issue emergency warnings during missile and drone threats. On Thursday, 24 September, Civil Defence issued alerts advising of a potential danger in Makkah, Jeddah, Taif, Yanbu and Tabuk, before subsequently giving the all-clear. The same day, Saudi authorities said air defences had intercepted and destroyed six ballistic missiles launched towards Taif and Yanbu.
Further attempted attacks were reported on Saturday, 26 September, when Saudi authorities said drones launched towards Riyadh and ballistic missiles towards Khamis Mushait had been intercepted.
During emergency alerts, Saudi Civil Defence advises people in affected areas to remain indoors, stay away from windows and glass, avoid open areas and follow official instructions. Travellers should not gather to observe an incident or photograph or film military activity, interceptions or their aftermath.
What are worldwide governments advising?
United Kingdom: The Foreign Office does not currently advise against travel to most of Saudi Arabia, including Riyadh, Jeddah and AlUla, but does advise against all travel within 10km of the Yemen border, and against all but essential travel between 10km and 80km of the border, with this area extending to Abha and Khamis Mushait. It specifically advises travellers to stay away from military facilities and oil infrastructure, follow instructions from local authorities and seek shelter inside a secure building if an alert is issued. Its guidance was most recently updated on 20 September.
United States: The US State Department currently places Saudi Arabia at Level 3: Reconsider Travel, citing the risk of Iranian drone and missile targeting of American interests, armed conflict, terrorism, exit bans and local laws governing social media activity. It advises against travel to the Yemen border.
Australia: Australia’s Smartraveller advises visitors to reconsider their need to travel to Saudi Arabia overall because of the unpredictable security situation. It advises against all travel to the provinces of Asir, Jazan and Najran, as well as areas within 30km of the Yemen border. The advice, updated on Monday, 6 October, warns that missile and drone attacks have targeted energy and civilian infrastructure, including airports, and that further attacks could result in sudden airspace closures and flight cancellations.
Source: www.cntravellerme.com
