The options to depart section was updated with new information.
We are monitoring the situation in the Middle East closely and will keep you updated so you can make decisions about your safety. If you want to leave the Middle East, the U.S. government is ready to assist by providing you the latest information about the departure options available. President Trump, Secretary of State Rubio, and the Department of State have no higher priority than the safety and security of American citizens. New or updated information below is indicated in bold.
If you choose to not take advantage of available commercial departure options, you should be prepared to shelter in place in a secure location within your residence or another safe building. Have a supply of food, water, medications, and other essential items. We urge all Americans to remain vigilant, follow local authorities’ instructions, and review the latest guidance from the U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
Please continue to check your email for additional information or last-minute changes.
Options to Depart
We encourage U.S. citizens to depart Saudi Arabia via commercial flights if you can do so safely. Saudi airspace remains open with frequent air traffic restrictions to address continued missile and drone threats. Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam airports remain open and operational, but travelers are advised to check their flight status directly with the airline due to possible delays and cancellations.
Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams .
Be careful of anyone asking for money. If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help .
Shelter in Place
- The U.S. Embassy in Riyadh has directed all U.S. government employees to shelter in place. We recommend all Americans in Saudi Arabia do the same until further notice. To the extent possible, remain in your residence or another structure, and stay away from windows.
- If you choose not to depart via commercial options, you should be prepared to shelter in place in a secure location within your residence or another safe building. Have a supply of food, water, medications, and other essential items.
- On March 8, the Department of State ordered non-emergency U.S. government employees to leave due to sustained missile and drone threats targeting American and diplomatic interests in the Kingdom.
- Essential employees remaining will continue under shelter-in-place status and are advised to avoid the U.S. Embassy, U.S. Consulate Dhahran, and hotels. We recommend all Americans in the Kingdom do the same until further notice. To the extent possible, remain in your residence or another structure, and stay away from windows.
- We are tracking reports of threats against locations where American citizens gather. We advise U.S. citizens that hotels and other gathering points may be potential targets.
Embassy Operations
- The U.S. Embassy and Consulates have suspended all routine consular services. We will continue to assist you wherever you may be located across the Middle East. Our 24/7 Task Force provides around-the-clock information and assistance.
- For U.S. passports currently held by the U.S. Embassy in Riyadh we are making arrangements to return them via the courier service.
- For Americans who do not have a valid U.S. passport, arrangements will be made to provide passport services once security conditions permit.
Actions to Take
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive safety and security updates from the U.S. Embassy.
- Maintain communication with family and friends to inform them of your status.
- Have travel documents up to date and easily accessible.
- Find a secure location within your residence or another safe building. Have a supply of food, water, medications, and other essential items.
- In case of an attack, stay away from any debris, and monitor news outlets for official guidance.
- Avoid protests and demonstrations, keep a low profile, and stay aware of your surroundings.
- Pay close attention to communications from local officials.
- Follow the “U.S. Department of State – Security Updates for U.S. Citizens” channel on WhatsApp. Download WhatsApp at whatsapp.com/download .
- Keep your cell phone charged and pre-programmed with the following emergency numbers.
Assistance
- Local emergency numbers:
- Unified Emergency number (Police, Firefighters, traffic police, and others): 911
- Police: 999
- Highway security: 996
- Ambulance: 997
- U.S. Department of State: Call +1 202-501-4444 from abroad or +1 888-407-4747 when calling from the U.S. and Canada.
