Australia warns citizens to avoid Saudi Arabia after airport attacks

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 17 Oct, 06:32 · Archive

Australia's Smart Traveller service has advised all citizens to avoid Saudi Arabia following missile and drone attacks on airports.

Australia's Smart Traveller service has issued a warning urging all Australians to avoid travelling to Saudi Arabia following recent attacks on airports. The attacks are part of broader US-Iran tensions, with Iran-backed Houthis from Yemen targeting Saudi Arabian airports and airspace. Air travel is significantly disrupted at all major airports, with regular airspace closures, flight cancellations and delays.

Smart Traveller specifically advised against travelling to King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh due to recent security incidents that have disrupted airport operations, and urged extreme caution at all other airports. The Houthis have threatened to strike airports again. Australians travelling through the region are being urged to confirm flights before departing and consider alternative overland routes via the UAE or Qatar.

Those remaining in Saudi Arabia have been advised to prepare to shelter in place at short notice and ensure they have sufficient food, water and other essential supplies. If a strike occurs, people should seek shelter in a substantial building and stay away from windows, as falling debris from intercepted missiles and drones poses a risk. The Australian government has also warned travellers against filming or photographing critical infrastructure, military operations, missile launches or drone activity, which can result in criminal prosecution.

How it is being reported

• Smart Traveller warns Australians to avoid Saudi Arabia after deadly airport missile attacksA fresh warning has been issued for those looking to travel to the Middle East with the government urging Australians not to go.The West Australian · 17 Oct, 06:11
• Smart Traveller warns Australians to avoid Saudi Arabia after deadly airport missile attacksA fresh warning has been issued for those looking to travel to the Middle East with the government urging Australians not to go.Perth Now · 17 Oct, 06:11

In this story: Saudi Arabia · Australia · Houthis · Yemen · United States · Iran · United Arab Emirates · Qatar

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