Saudi Arabia Travel Advisory (2024)

Updated after periodic review to provide information on the risk of arrest due to social media use and the importation of prohibited items.

Reconsider travel to Saudi Arabia due tothe threat of missile and drone attacks. Exercise increased caution in Saudi Arabia due toterrorism, the risk of arrest based on social media activity, and importation of prohibited items. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do not travel to the following locations due to the threat ofmissile and drone attacksandterrorism:

  • Within 50 miles of the Saudi-Yemen border, as well as the cities of Abha, Jizan, Najran, and Khamis Mushayt;
  • Abha airport;
  • Qatif in the Eastern Province and its suburbs, including Awamiyah.

Country Summary: U.S. government personnel under Chief of Mission responsibility must adhere to the above travel restrictions. As such, the U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in these locations.

Missile and drone attacks perpetrated by Iran and Iran-supported militant groups have occurred as recently as September 2023. The Islamic Republic of Iran has in the past supplied Yemen-based Houthis and regional proxy groups with weapons to conduct destructive and sometimes lethal attacks using drones, missiles, and rockets against a variety of Saudi sites, including critical infrastructure, civilian airports, military bases, and energy facilities throughout the country, as well as vessels in Red Sea shipping lanes. Past attacks were aimed at targets throughout Saudi Arabia including Riyadh, Jeddah, Dhahran, Jizan, Khamis Mushayt, the civilian airport in Abha, Al Kharj, military installations in the south, as well as oil and gas facilities.

Debris from intercepted drones and missiles has also represented a significant risk to civilian areas and populations in the recent past. Militant groups have threatened to conduct attacks against locations in Saudi Arabia. U.S. citizens living and working near military bases and critical civilian infrastructure, particularly near the border with Yemen, are at heightened risk if missile, drone, or rocket attacks reoccur.

Terrorism continues to be a concern in Saudi Arabia. Attacks can occur with little or no warning. Past attacks have targeted tourist locations, large gatherings, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities. Terrorists are also known to time attacks around major holidays and/or in response to military operations. Terrorists have targeted both Saudi and international interests, mosques and other religious sites (both Sunni and Shia), and places frequented by U.S. citizens.

Be advised that social media commentary – including past comments – which Saudi authorities may deem critical, offensive, or disruptive to public order, could lead to arrest. This may include posting, re-posting, or liking comments about Saudi institutions, policies, and public life. U.S. citizens have been convicted for social media activity under Saudi laws concerning cybercrime, terrorism, and disrupting public order. Punishment for social media activity has included prison sentences of up to 45 years in some cases. Saudi courts do not necessarily consider the timeframe of the posts or the location from which they were made to be material to these cases.

The importation of drugs (including marijuana), drug paraphernalia, alcohol, weapons, pork, or any materials that could be considered pornographic or suggestive, is prohibited. Penalties for drug possession, consumption, and trafficking are severe by U.S. standards. An extensive list of banned items is available on our Saudi Arabia country information page.

Due to risks to civil aviation operating within the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman region, including Saudi Arabia, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued an advisory Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM). For more information U.S. citizens should consult theFederal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices.

Read thecountry information pagefor additional information on travel to Saudi Arabia.

If you decide to travel to Saudi Arabia:

  • Visit our website for information ontravel to high-risk areas.
  • Stay alert in large crowds and/or locations frequented by foreign nationals.
  • Obtain comprehensive medical insurance that includes medical evacuation.
  • Review local laws and conditions before traveling, including our Saudi Arabia country information on arrest notification and the Department of State’s general information on arrests of U.S. citizens abroad.
  • Enroll in theSmart Traveler Enrollment Program(STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
  • Follow the Department of State onFacebookandTwitter.
  • Follow the U.S. Embassy in Saudi Arabia onFacebookandTwitter.
  • Review theCountry Security Reportfor Saudi Arabia.
  • Visit the CDC page for the latestTravel Health Informationrelated to your travel.
  • Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review theTraveler’s Checklist.

Yemen Border, Abha airport, and Qatif in the Eastern Province and its suburbs, including Awamiyah – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Militants in Yemen have attacked Saudi border towns and other sites in Saudi Arabia with armed drones, missiles, and rockets. Civilians that are near the border with Yemen are especially at risk. Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Saudi Arabia, including in Qatif.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens within 50 miles of the Saudi-Yemen border as U.S. government personnel and their families are restricted from travel to this area.

Visit our website for information ontravel to high-risk areas

Saudi Arabia Travel Advisory (2024)

FAQs

Is it safe to travel to Saudi Arabia right now? ›

We advise: Exercise a high degree of caution in Saudi Arabia overall due to the threat of terrorism and missile and drone attacks. Higher levels apply in some areas.

Can a US citizen travel to Saudi Arabia now? ›

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia requires all United States citizens to have a Saudi Arabia visa before traveling to the country. There are many options, including business visas, diplomatic visas, and religious pilgrimage visas.

Is Saudi Arabia an US ally? ›

These relations were formalized under the 1951 Mutual Defense Assistance Agreement. Despite the differences between the two countries—an Islamic absolute monarchy versus a secular constitutional republic—the two countries have been allies ever since.

Can I wear shorts in Saudi Arabia? ›

Shorts are legally allowed, although trousers are more respectful towards Saudi culture and traditions. There is no expectation to wear a thobe, the clothing of choice for Saudi men. Although if you did wear one, this would be appreciated by many in the country.

Can I wear jeans in Saudi Arabia? ›

Clothes for Men in Saudi Arabia

Choose items that cover the shoulder, arms, and legs, in muted or natural tones. Avoid wearing jeans that hug your figure, which will be uncomfortable both climatically and culturally.

Are Americans welcome in Saudi Arabia? ›

Saudi Arabia is safe for U.S. citizens, or at least should not be any less safe than for people from other countries. Americans should register their trip with the American embassy in Saudi Arabia and consult the Department of State website for current updates.

Can you drink in Saudi Arabia? ›

Alcohol sale and consumption in Saudi Arabia is strictly forbidden, and is punishable by lashes, deportations, fines and imprisonment. However, the nation under Crown Prince Mohamed bin Salman has moved towards the remodeling of its tourism industry as part of a grand vision to diversify the economy.

Can an American woman travel to Saudi Arabia? ›

Visa requirements for female travellers to Saudi Arabia are the same as for all genders. Most nationalities can apply for an e-visa online, covering tourism, business and pilgrimage visits. You'll need a passport valid for at least 6 months, travel insurance and confirmed accommodation.

What are the rules for tourists in Saudi Arabia? ›

Dress code. Women should observe the strict Saudi dress code and wear conservative and loose-fitting clothes, including a full-length cloak (abaya) and a head scarf. Men should not wear shorts in public or go without a shirt. Seek guidance concerning acceptable clothing before your arrival.

Does Russia support Saudi Arabia? ›

Russia is the largest oil and gas exporter after Saudi Arabia and enjoys a highly valued cooperation with the Arab country in the framework of the OPEC+ group. Russia blames international sanctions for higher energy prices around the world.

Is Saudi Arabia a rich or poor country? ›

Economy of Saudi Arabia
Trade organisationsWTO, OPEC, and GCC
Country groupDeveloping/Emerging High income economy
Statistics
Population37,299,502 (2023 census)
GDP$1.106 trillion (Nominal, 2024) $2.354 trillion (PPP, 2024)
31 more rows

Is Saudi Arabia a threat to the US? ›

U.S. citizens living and working near military bases and critical civilian infrastructure, particularly near the border with Yemen, are at heightened risk if missile, drone, or rocket attacks reoccur. Terrorism continues to be a concern in Saudi Arabia.

Can you take a Bible to Saudi Arabia? ›

In Saudi Arabia, it's fine to bring in a Bible if you're a foreigner—but if you do something like read it in public, or it's suspected you have any intention with speaking publicly about your faith, that could mean prison.

Are tattoos allowed in Saudi Arabia? ›

Tattoos must be covered. Piercings in non-traditional locations (e.g., the eyebrow, lips) may be frowned upon.

Can I wear a cross in Saudi Arabia? ›

The public expression of other religions is forbidden by law including the wearing of religious jewellery, including the crucifix. We would request that you observe and respect local traditions, customs, laws at all times and be aware of your actions to ensure that they do not offend.

Is it safe for Americans to travel to Dubai? ›

Yes, Dubai is safe for tourists.

Though the city is quite safe, tourists should still be alert when leaving their belongings or bags unattended. Be aware of your surroundings and continue to practice safe traveling skills throughout your visit, just as you would during a visit to any other big city.

What are the risks in Saudi? ›

Safety and security
  • Terrorism. ...
  • Military activity in the Red Sea area. ...
  • Political situation. ...
  • Crime. ...
  • Laws and cultural differences. ...
  • Transport risks. ...
  • Extreme weather and natural disasters.

Does Saudi Arabia allow tourists? ›

On 27 September 2019, Saudi Arabia formally announced the issuance of the tourist visa to visitors from 49 countries for a fee of $80. The visa can be either obtained online (eVisa) or on arrival. Ten days after the implementation of instant tourist visas, 24,000 foreign visitors entered Saudi Arabia.

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