State Department orders 100% of non-emergency US staff to leave Saudi Arabia

The United States Department of State has ordered all nonemergency government employees and their family members to depart Saudi Arabia immediately. This move reflects a sharp increase in physical threats to American personnel stationed in the Gulf region. The directive took effect on October 23, 2026, and remains in force as of the current alert issued on October 27.

The embassy cited sustained hostilities from Iranian-backed Houthis as the primary driver for the evacuation order. These groups have launched missile and unmanned aerial vehicle attacks against civilian airports and other critical infrastructure. The strikes have resulted in civilian casualties and severe disruptions to air travel networks. The embassy noted that these conflicts have the potential to expand rapidly beyond their immediate geographic location.

American citizens traveling within the country face specific operational risks at major aviation hubs. King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh partially reopened on October 23 for domestic and select international flights operated by national carriers. To manage capacity, a limited number of flights normally based in Riyadh are now operating out of Prince Naif bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Qassim. Operations at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah and King Fahd International Airport in Dammam remain active but are experiencing delays and cancellations.

Government staff working in the kingdom now require special authorization from the Chief of Mission to use any airport. This administrative control aims to limit exposure for U.S. personnel during periods of high volatility. The embassy advised U.S. citizens to exercise extreme caution when utilizing airport facilities. It recommended that travelers verify flight departure status directly with their airlines and the specific airport to avoid unexpected changes.

The alert emphasizes the likelihood of further attacks on airports, sudden airspace closures, and widespread flight cancellations. These conditions create a complex environment for both government staff and private travelers. The State Department’s action signals a high level of concern regarding the safety of nonessential personnel in the country.

The embassy will continue to monitor the situation and update its guidance as conditions change. No further departures are currently scheduled beyond the initial order for nonemergency staff. The focus remains on ensuring the safe exit of government employees and their dependents while maintaining essential diplomatic and consular functions.