US Saudi Arabia Travel Advisory Updated After Mecca Drone Claim

The US Saudi Arabia Travel Advisory has been updated after Saudi Arabia accused Yemen-based Houthi rebels of sending a drone toward Mecca. The United States continues to place Saudi Arabia at Level 3, or “Reconsider Travel,” because of security risks linked to missiles and drones, terrorism, armed conflict and other threats.

The statement came shortly after Saudi officials said that their air force intercepted a Houthi drone before it could reach the restricted airspace around Mecca. The Houthis dismissed the claim, calling it a “worn-out lie.”

The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) denounced the “heinous” assault and supported Saudi Arabia’s efforts to defend its sacred sites and national security.

US Saudi Arabia Travel Advisory Highlights Iran and Houthi Risks

The revised caution alerts Americans to the risk of Iranian missile and drone strikes in Saudi Arabia. The advice said that Iran has previously attacked cities, airports, military sites, diplomatic facilities, and energy infrastructure.

The United States also cautioned that falling debris from intercepted missiles and drones might pose significant risks, especially near military and energy facilities.

The advice also underscored the danger posed by Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen. The organization has vowed more strikes on Saudi Arabia, while Saudi officials have accused the Houthis of stepping up their attacks on the country in recent weeks.

The Houthis have also launched a blockade of Saudi Arabia and increased action in the Bab al-Mandeb Strait. The significant Red Sea waterway conducts around 12% of world commerce.

Yemen Border Remains Under Do Not Travel Warning

Although the majority of Saudi Arabia remains at Level 3, the US continues to caution Americans not to go near the Yemen border. Because of terrorism and cross-border security risks, certain areas continue to be under a Level 4 “Do Not Travel” alert.

US federal personnel are not permitted to go within 20 miles of Yemen’s border. Non-essential travel to Qatif is likewise prohibited, while travel to Jizan, Asir, Najran, and Qatif needs special permission.

According to the State Department, the general travel level and risk indicators remain unchanged. However, the most recent version contains new limits that apply to US federal employees.

The advice also cautioned Americans about potential terrorist attacks at tourist sites, hotels, retail malls, transportation hubs, entertainment venues, government offices, and other areas frequented by foreign visitors.

Another caution pertains to Saudi legislation governing social media usage. The United States said that Americans had previously been jailed for internet postings, including information published outside of Saudi Arabia.

The guideline further said that persons in Saudi Arabia may face departure prohibitions due to criminal or civil charges, visa concerns, financial disputes, or employment conflicts.

Americans presently in the kingdom have been instructed to stay up to date on local happenings, maintain travel papers on hand, and establish an emergency escape plan that does not depend on US government aid.