US warns of fresh attacks on Saudi airports

The United States Mission in Saudi Arabia has warned of fresh attacks on airports in Riyadh and Dammam, urging travellers to exercise extreme caution amid the risk of flight cancellations and airspace closures.

On its X handle on Monday, the mission disclosed this in a security alert dated October 11, 2026, saying it was “aware of additional attacks on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh and a targeted attack on King Fahd International Airport in Dammam” on Sunday.

“Please take extreme caution when using all major airports in Saudi Arabia,” the mission said.

It warned “US citizens to prepare for possible flight cancellations, airspace closures and other travel disruptions, advising them to check their departure status directly with their airlines and the airports.”

The mission also suggested that travellers consider alternative means of transportation, including private cars, trains and buses, while urging them to confirm availability and schedules with service providers.

It listed “Saudi Arabia Railways, SAT Transportation and SAPTCO as transport options.”

The security alert further stated that US government employees working in Saudi Arabia required special authorisation to use King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh and the airports in Jeddah and Dammam.

The “employees were also prohibited from travelling within 20 miles of the Yemen border because of safety risks.”

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According to the alert, special authorisation was also required for travel to the provinces of Jizan, Asir and Najran, as well as the cities of Qatif, Yanbu and Taif.

The mission said regular and emergency consular services remained available to US citizens.

The latest warning followed deadly attacks on Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport on Saturday, October 10.

PUNCH Online reported that the attack killed 12 people and injured more than 300, according to Saudi officials.

A further attack on Sunday killed one person and injured 11 others, Reuters reported.

The attacks disrupted airport operations and prompted fresh security warnings and travel restrictions.

Tosin Oyediran is a journalist with Punch Newspapers, bringing over eight years of newsroom experience to his coverage of politics, health, advocacy, sports, and entertainment. Known for sharp interviews and human-centered reporting, his work focuses on public accountability, civic issues, and the stories shaping everyday lives.