The United States has issued an updated travel advisory for Saudi Arabia, warning American citizens against travelling to areas near the country’s border with Yemen amid continuing security concerns involving missiles, drones and armed groups. The advisory, updated on September 15, 2026, asks travellers to reconsider travel to Saudi Arabia overall and specifically says they should not travel to the Yemen border region.
US Issues Level 3 Travel Advisory for Saudi Arabia
The US Department of State has classified Saudi Arabia under Level 3: Reconsider Travel. The advisory cites risks including armed conflict, terrorism, Iranian drone and missile attacks, possible exit bans and local laws concerning social-media activity.
The warning is particularly strict for the Yemen border, which has been placed under Level 4: Do Not Travel. The US says armed groups operating from Yemen have previously attacked Saudi border towns and other locations using armed drones, missiles and rockets.
The State Department said people close to the Yemen border face increased risks and advised US citizens not to travel to the area for any reason.
Missile and Drone Threats
The latest warning comes amid heightened regional tensions and a renewed escalation involving Yemen’s Houthi forces.
According to the US advisory, Iran has launched missile and drone attacks into Saudi Arabia, with reported targets including cities, infrastructure, airports, military facilities, diplomatic locations and energy infrastructure. The advisory also says Iran-backed Houthi forces have threatened to attack Saudi Arabia again.
Saudi authorities have also faced a series of security alerts in recent days. Reuters reported that Saudi air defences intercepted and destroyed a Houthi drone south of Mecca on Tuesday, preventing it from entering the holy city’s restricted airspace.
Security Alerts Across Saudi Arabia
The heightened security situation has extended beyond the immediate Yemen border. Saudi Civil Defence said on Tuesday that the immediate danger had passed in several locations, including Jeddah, Abha, Jazan, AlUla, Taif and Yanbu, following earlier emergency alerts.
The developments come as fighting involving Houthi forces has intensified along Yemen’s Red Sea coast. Reuters reported that the renewed conflict has also created new concerns for shipping and Saudi energy infrastructure.
Restrictions for US Government Employees
The US advisory also contains additional restrictions for American government personnel. US government employees working in Saudi Arabia are prohibited from travelling within 20 miles of the Yemen border because of security risks.
Special authorisation is also required for government employees travelling to provinces including Jizan, Asir and Najran.
What Travellers Should Know
The US government continues to advise citizens in Saudi Arabia to monitor local media, remain alert and be prepared to adjust travel plans. It also recommends enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security alerts.
The advisory reflects the current security environment and could change as regional developments unfold. Travellers should therefore check the latest official guidance before visiting areas near the Yemen border or other locations identified as higher risk