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Security Alert: Saudi Arabia – U.S. Embassy Riyadh (March 5, 2021)
6 MINUTE READ
March 5, 2021

Location: Throughout Saudi Arabia

Event: The U.S. Mission to Saudi Arabia reminds U.S. citizens that extremist groups and regional actors have conducted destructive missile and drone attacks against a variety of targets.  These attacks have occurred with little or no warning, impacting airports, energy infrastructure, and other civilian facilities.

Violence associated with Iran-supported groups represents a significant threat. U.S. citizens living and working near military bases and critical civilian infrastructure, including airports, are at heightened risk of missile and drone attack.  U.S. citizens should remain alert and be prepared to respond in case of attacks.

Airplanes at Saudi airports may be at risk of damage on account of the escalating conflict with Yemen and rising violence.  Iraqi militants have also launched a series of attacks at air bases and airports and may inadvertently hit commercial aircraft in their campaign.

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) issued an advisory Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) in 2018 that remains in effect. For more information U.S. citizens should consult the Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices.

Please review the full Travel Advisory for Saudi Arabia.

Actions to Take:

  • If you hear a loud explosion or if sirens are activated, immediately seek cover.
  • If in a home or a building, go to the lowest level of the structure with the fewest exterior walls, windows, and openings; close any doors and sit near an interior wall, away from any windows or openings.
  • If you are outdoors, immediately seek cover in a hardened structure; if that is not possible, lie down and cover your head with your hands.
  • Be aware that even if the incoming missile or drone is intercepted, falling debris represents a significant risk.
  • After the attack, stay away from any debris, and monitor major news outlets for official guidance.
  • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts.

For Assistance Contact:

  • U.S. Embassy Riyadh
    Abdullah Ibn Hudhafah As Sahmi Street Roundabout no. 9, Diplomatic Quarter Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
    Telephone: (966) (11) 488-3800
    Fax: (966) (11) 488-7670
    RiyadhACS@state.gov

 

  • U.S. Consulate General Jeddah
    Al Safa Street, Al Muhammadiyah District, near the new American School building
    Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
    Telephone: (966) (12) 220-5000
    Fax: (966) (12) 220-5093
    JeddahACS@state.gov

 

  • U.S. Consulate General Dhahran
    Between KFUPM and King Abdulaziz Airbase, Dhahran, Saudi Arabia
    Telephone: (966) (13) 330-3200
    Fax: (966) (13) 330-6816
    DhahranACS@state.gov