Saudi Arabia’s Warning Is Not Only About Missiles, but Also Your Phone

The US State Department issued a Level 3 “Reconsider Travel” advisory for Saudi Arabia on October 12, with areas near the Yemen border at Level 4, “Do Not Travel.” The headline risks are regional conflict, terrorism, and missile and drone attacks. The advisory says Iranian attacks have continued since US-Iran hostilities began in February, and that cities, airports, military bases and energy facilities have been targeted.

Aviation is directly involved. Reports cited in coverage say Houthi attacks on Saudi airports killed at least 14 people, including an American, and a US Mission security alert on October 10 urged Americans to avoid King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh. Commercial flights are operating, but the advisory notes that service has faced major disruption at times, so itineraries can change quickly.

What sets the notice apart is its focus on legal risk. Travelers are told not to photograph, film or share information about interceptions or impact sites, and Americans have reportedly been detained for doing so. Some US citizens have been arrested over past social media posts, reposts or likes critical of the Saudi government, even when shared from outside the country. Breaking local law, even unintentionally, can bring fines, imprisonment, deportation or an exit ban.

The State Department advises staying alert, following local news and keeping an emergency departure plan that does not rely on US government help. Travelers who still need to go should enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, review what is stored on their phones and social accounts, and buy insurance that explicitly covers conflict-related disruption. Those with flexible plans have good reason to wait.

Sources: Fox News, US Embassy in Saudi Arabia