Canadians are being warned against travelling to Saudi Arabia amid ongoing attacks on the country’s capital airport.
“Avoid all travel to King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh and to King Fahd International Airport in Dammam due to ongoing military activity,” Global Affairs Canada said in its travel advisory updated Thursday.
“Missile and drone attacks on airports in Saudi Arabia have affected operations and caused flight disruptions at several airports.”
King Khalid International Airport is currently closed and further attacks could close the Saudi airspace, Global Affairs added.
“Prepare contingency plans that don’t rely on the government of Canada’s assistance for departure,” the advisory said.
Global Affairs also warned Canadians to “avoid all travel” to the Saudi Arabian provinces of Asir, Jazan and Najran, as well as all areas within 30 kilometres of the border with Yemen.
Houthi militants attacked the airport while raging a larger war against Saudi Arabia using missiles, drones, and conventional weapons.
Office staff in Riyadh have been told to work from home as a safety precaution while the Houthis fight against the kingdom.
The Houthis, also known as Ansarallah, were labelled a terrorist entity by Ottawa in 2024.
Canada is advising travellers to follow local authorities’ instructions, be ready to shelter in place and monitor the local and international situation.
“Filming, taking photos and online sharing of images of military installations, activity or damage could lead to severe penalties pursuant to the enforcement of local laws and regulations across the region,” the notice warned.
The U.S. mission to Saudi Arabia issued a similar travel warning as Ottawa.
“Iranian-supported Houthis have engaged in hostilities against Saudi Arabia, including attacks on civilian airports and other critical infrastructure resulting in civilian casualties and severe travel disruptions,” according to a Wednesday security alert.
“The hostilities have the potential to escalate rapidly beyond that immediate area.”
