The UK government has updated its travel advice for parts of Saudi Arabia, including the capital, Riyadh, due to escalating tensions in the Middle East. Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebels have claimed to be targeting Riyadh airport.
On Thursday, 8 October, the Houthis stated they attacked Riyadh airport with a ballistic missile. Reuters also reported a parked Saudia Airlines plane caught fire and was badly damaged. Saudi Arabia has not commented on this latest claim, but earlier this week, it reported one person killed in a strike on Riyadh airport and two others in an attack on Abha airport.
Following an update on Thursday, 8 October, the UK's Foreign Office (FCDO) now advises against all but essential travel to Riyadh province, which includes the capital city. This advice also extends to Aseer province, Najran province, Jizan province, Taif city, and Taif International airport. The FCDO continues to advise against all travel within 10km of the Yemen border.
Travellers have been advised to exercise caution at transport infrastructure, including ports and airports. Over a hundred flights were cancelled at Riyadh airport on Friday, 9 October, with many more delayed.