Global Affairs Canada issued a revised travel advisory on October 22, 2026, urging citizens to avoid major aviation hubs in Saudi Arabia. The warning specifically targets Riyadh's King Khalid International Airport and the King Fahd International Airport located in Dammam.
The closure of King Khalid International Airport
King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh is currently non-operational, according to the latest update from Global Affairs Canada. This closure follows reports of significant damage, including an image verified by the AP showing thick black smoke and flames rising from the facility on October 9, 2026.
The Canadian government warned that continued missile and drone strikes could lead to a total closure of Saudi airspace. Travelers are being told to develop contingency plans immediately, as the Canadian government may be unable to provide assistance for departures if the situation deteriorates further. This warning aligns with similar guidance issued by the U.S. mission to Saudi Arabia.
Houthi drone and missile strikes on Saudi infrastructure
The instability is driven by Houthi militants, also known as Ansarallah, who have been conducting military operations against Saudi Arabia using drones and conventional weapons. These Iranian-supported attacks have targeted civilian airports and critical infrastructure, resulting in civilian casualties and significant travel disruptions.
Ottawa’s decision to issue this warning follows its 2024 designation of the Houthis as a terrorist entity. As reported by the source, the conflict has the potential to escalate rapidly, moving beyond immediate strike zones and affecting broader regional stability. The use of missiles and drones has specifically hampered airport operations, creating a volatile environment for international travelers.
High-risk zones near the Yemeni border
Beyond the major airports, Global Affairs Canada has identified specific geographic areas of high concern. The advisory warns Canadians to avoid the Saudi provinces of Asir, Jazan,and Najran, as well as any locations within 30 kilometres of the border with Yemen.
In Riyadh, the security situation has become serious enough that office staff have been instructed to work from home as a safety precaution. Furthermore, local laws in the region impose severe penalties for anyone caught filming or sharing images of military installations or damage online.. Travelers are urged to follow all local instructions and be prepared to shelter in place if necessary.
Uncertainty over the duration of Saudi airspace closurs
While the advisory provides clear warnings, several critical details remain unverified in the current reporting. It is currently unclear how long King Khalid International Airport will remain closed or if the disruptions at King Fahd International Airport will lead to a similar total shutdown. The potential for further attacks remains a primary concern for aviation authorities.
Additionally, while the report mentions civilian casualties resulting from Houthi hostilities, the specific number of victims has not been disclosed. The advisory also notes that the U.S. mission to Saudi Arabia has issued a similar warning, but the specific level of restriction recommended by American authorities has not been detailed in the Canadian briefing.
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