US, India issue Saudi Arabia travel advisories amid Houthi attacks as continued missile and drone activity raises concerns over airport operations and civilian safety. Riyadh airport remains disrupted, while Indian and American citizens have been urged to monitor official alerts and take precautions.
India issues Saudi Arabia travel advisory
The Indian Embassy in Riyadh has issued fresh guidance asking Indian nationals in Saudi Arabia to exercise caution amid continuing Houthi missile and drone attacks. Citizens have been advised to follow instructions issued by Saudi Civil Defence through the National Early Warning Platform for Emergencies.
The embassy said people should immediately move to a secure indoor location during an aerial attack, preferably away from windows. It also urged citizens not to record or circulate photos and videos connected to ongoing military activity.
For Indians who need to leave urgently, the mission said transit through Bahrain, Kuwait or Qatar may be considered, subject to visa requirements and flight availability.
US updates Saudi Arabia airport warning
The US Mission to Saudi Arabia has also updated its security guidance. It said operations at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh remain suspended, while King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah and King Fahd International Airport in Dammam continue operating with some delays and cancellations.
American citizens have been told to expect further threats to Saudi airports. US government employees require special authorization before using Saudi airports, reflecting the heightened security environment.
Saudi Arabia has remained under a Level 3 “Reconsider Travel” advisory from the US State Department, though neither Washington nor New Delhi has ordered citizens to leave the kingdom.
King Khalid airport attack raises concern
The latest warnings follow an October 10 missile strike on King Khalid International Airport that Saudi aviation authorities said killed 13 people and injured more than 300.
An Indian national was among those killed, while several other Indians were injured. The Saudi-led coalition says Houthi forces have repeatedly targeted the airport this month, intensifying concerns about aviation safety and civilian infrastructure.
The attacks have also affected flight schedules and raised uncertainty for travellers moving through the kingdom.
Indian airlines suspend Saudi routes
Indian carriers have extended some suspensions to Saudi Arabia as security concerns continue. The Indian Embassy said Akasa Air had halted Saudi routes until October 27, while travellers have been advised to check directly with airlines before heading to airports.
The embassy has also opened a 24-hour control room to assist Indian nationals. Officials continue to monitor the situation and coordinate with Saudi authorities as flight disruptions evolve.
Saudi-Houthi conflict escalates
Saudi Arabia has promised a strong response to continued Houthi attacks and has launched strikes against targets in Yemen. The escalation has widened concerns about airports, energy facilities and regional shipping routes.
President Donald Trump has also said Washington is considering whether to support Saudi military action, adding another international dimension to the conflict.
For travellers, the immediate priority is practical: follow official alerts, confirm flight status, avoid sensitive areas and keep emergency contacts available. With missile and drone activity continuing, both India and the United States are signalling that the security situation can change quickly.
