US Embassy orders staff to leave Saudi Arabia after Houthi strikes hit 10 targets

The U.S. Embassy in Riyadh issued a new security alert on November 3, 2026, warning American citizens of heightened risks from Yemen's Houthis. The alert detailed ongoing hostilities against Saudi Arabia that have targeted civilian airports and critical infrastructure. These attacks have already resulted in civilian casualties and severe disruptions to travel.

The Department of State ordered non-emergency U.S. government employees and their family members to leave the kingdom effective October 23, 2026. This directive cites specific safety risks posed by the escalating conflict. Government employees remaining in Saudi Arabia now require special authorization from the Chief of Mission to use any airport in the country.

The embassy posted the alert on X, noting that the Houthis have engaged in hostilities that carry the potential to escalate rapidly beyond the immediate strike zones. The warning specifically references recent missile and unmanned aerial vehicle attacks on airports across the kingdom.

American citizens are advised to take extreme caution when using Saudi airports. The embassy recommends checking flight departure status directly with airlines and airport authorities to account for potential airspace closures and flight cancellations. Travelers should be prepared for potential attacks on airport facilities.

The alert identifies the Houthis as Iranian-supported forces. It emphasizes that the disruptions affect not only flights but also other critical infrastructure. The embassy urges U.S. citizens to monitor the situation closely and adjust travel plans accordingly.

The November 3 alert serves as a formal notification of the current security posture. It replaces previous general warnings with specific instructions regarding airport usage and government employee deployment. The embassy remains open to providing further updates as the situation develops.