The U.S. Department of State has urged travelers to reconsider travel to Saudi Arabia, upgrading the country to a “Level 3: Reconsider Travel” advisory on September 16, 2026, citing major risks of Iranian drones and missiles aimed at American interests, armed conflicts, terrorism, and exit bans.
Current security and travel advisories
The level 3 advisory suggests major regional security concerns, especially following the onset of hostilities between the United States and Iran, which started in late February 2026.
A strict “level 4: do not travel” warning remains in effect for areas within 20 miles of the Yemen border due to terrorism and cross-border attacks. U.S. government employees are prohibited from travelling to Qatif for non-essential purposes and need special authorization to travel to Jizan, Asir, Najran, and Qatif provinces.
Current status of Hajj and Umrah
Umrah and Hajj procedures remain active, and Saudi authorities haven’t suspended pilgrimage travel. National carriers, including Saudia, continue scheduled domestic and international flights, and Saudi airspace remains open. Pilgrims already in the country are advised to remain alert and monitor local updates.
The advisory comes just as Saudi air defenses intercepted a Houthi drone south of Mecca on Tuesday, September 15, before it entered prohibited airspace over the holy city. Coalition spokesperson Turki al-Malki declared the security of Islam’s two holiest sites a “red line,” vowing deterrent measures. The Houthis denied targeting Mecca.
Local precautions
Authorities advise citizens and visitors in major cities such as Riyadh, Jeddah, and Mecca to remain alert and monitor local updates. Travelers should also be aware that social media posts critical of the Saudi government can result in arrest, with prison sentences of up to 45 years reported.
2026-09-16 18:21:00
