Australia Warns Citizens Against Saudi Arabian Airport After Missile Attacks

Australian authorities have issued an urgent travel warning for citizens transiting through King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, following two missile attacks that disrupted operations.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade's Smartraveller website updated its advice on Monday, recommending that travelers "do not travel to King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh due to recent security incidents that have disrupted airport operations." The advisory also cautioned travelers to "reconsider your need to travel to other airports in Saudi Arabia."

The airport was targeted by a ballistic missile last Thursday, an attack that resulted in 13 fatalities and over 300 injuries. The following day, a second strike occurred, causing a significant fire within the terminal, leading to further casualties and substantial damage.

Smartraveller has also extended its caution for the country as a whole, stating, "We continue to advise reconsider your need to travel overall due to the security situation in Saudi Arabia." The update notes that "military strikes and reprisal attacks are ongoing across Saudi Arabia, including in Riyadh."

Since July 13, the Houthi group from Yemen has reportedly renewed attacks against Saudi Arabia, targeting Riyadh, regional airports, and critical infrastructure. The Houthis have also issued threats against Saudi airports and airspace, with exceptions for Mecca and Medina.

Australians currently in Saudi Arabia are urged to remain vigilant, monitor developments, and adhere to the guidance of local authorities. The advisory recommends avoiding military sites and energy infrastructure, and seeking shelter in substantial buildings away from windows in the event of an attack. The risk of falling debris from intercepted missiles and drones is also highlighted.

This increased caution for Saudi Arabia contrasts with recent downgrades in travel advice levels for Qatar and the UAE, which were lowered to "exercise a high degree of caution." Smartraveller emphasized that the situation in the Middle East remains unpredictable and travel advice levels can change rapidly.