US Tightens Saudi Travel Curbs, Orders Clearance for Taif, Yanbu

RIYADH, Sept 21:  The US Embassy in Saudi Arabia has imposed additional travel restrictions on US government employees amid the ongoing security situation in the Kingdom, requiring special authorization for all official and personal travel to Taif and Yanbu.

In a security advisory, the US Mission strongly urged American citizens in Saudi Arabia to remain vigilant and follow local security guidance.

The embassy said regular and emergency consular services remain available to US citizens through the US Embassy in Riyadh and US consulates in Jeddah and Dhahran.

The advisory urged Americans to avoid demonstrations and large gatherings, stay away from areas with a heavy police presence, monitor local media and follow instructions issued by Saudi authorities.

US citizens were also advised to exercise caution at locations publicly associated with the United States and maintain a low profile.

The mission issued specific guidance in the event of an aerial attack, urging people to stay away from windows and glass doors, avoid fallen debris and monitor their phones and official news outlets for instructions.

Americans were also advised to keep their mobile phones charged, maintain emergency contact numbers and contact airlines directly regarding any flight changes.

The embassy encouraged US citizens to enroll in the State Department's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates and facilitate emergency contact.

The advisory comes amid heightened regional security concerns, although it did not provide details of any specific threat prompting the additional restrictions.