Australia Urges Citizens to Avoid Travel to Saudi Arabia Amid Security Concerns
The Australian government has updated its travel advice for Saudi Arabia to 'Do Not Travel' due to escalating security threats, particularly from Yemen's Houthi rebels.
Australians have been strongly advised to cancel any travel plans to Saudi Arabia due to a volatile security situation, according to updated guidance from the Australian Government's Smartraveller website.
The travel advice was elevated to 'Do Not Travel' on Monday following repeated strikes by Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebels on Saudi Arabia's main international airport earlier this month.
"The Houthis have threatened to target Saudi airports and airspace," the warning stated. "Air travel is significantly disrupted at all major airports, with regular airspace closures, flight cancellations and delays."
Specifically, the advice highlighted King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, urging travelers to avoid it due to recent security incidents that have disrupted operations. The government also advised exercising extreme caution when traveling to and from all airports in Saudi Arabia.
Individuals who decide to proceed with travel despite the warning are urged to confirm their flight status with their airline or travel provider before departing for the airport, as significant disruptions are anticipated.
The advisory explicitly recommends postponing all planned travel to Saudi Arabia, including journeys for religious purposes.