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Saudi Arabia
Riyadh
Security Alerts and Travel Disruptions in Saudi Arabia
On April 7, 2026, the U.S. Embassy in Riyadh issued a security alert reiterating risks from sustained Iranian missile and drone threats targeting American interests, diplomatic sites, hotels, U.S. businesses, and American-affiliated universities. Travelers (including U.S. citizens, expats, and digital nomads) are advised to reconsider travel, shelter in secure locations with supplies of food/water/medication, limit movements, maintain a low profile, enroll in STEP, and monitor for updates. Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam airports remain operational but with frequent air traffic restrictions; travelers must check flight status directly due to possible delays and cancellations. Specific suspensions include Lufthansa/Eurowings flights to/from Riyadh and Dammam through October 24, 2026, and KLM flights to/from Dammam/Riyadh through May 17, 2026. These directly impact air travel for nomads and expats.
Managing Withholding Tax in Saudi Arabia
The Saudi Tax Agency reminded entities of the April 10, 2026, deadline for filing March 2026 withholding tax declarations (affecting payments to non-residents); late payments incur penalties. This is a routine filing reminder but could affect expat businesses or employers of foreigners.
Saudi Arabia Updates Visa Enforcement and Overstay Penalties
Saudi Arabia has introduced revised visit visa validity periods and enhanced digital monitoring for all visitors. Travelers should note stricter penalties for overstaying and seasonal entry restrictions for certain nationalities during the Hajj period.
U.S. Orders Personnel to Depart Saudi Arabia Amid Regional Tensions
The U.S. Department of State has raised the travel advisory for Saudi Arabia to Level 3, ordering the departure of non-emergency government employees and their families. Expats and travelers should reconsider travel to the region and exercise increased caution due to heightened safety concerns.
Inside Saudi Arabia’s Evolving Visa and Residency Rules
Saudi Arabia has expanded eVisa eligibility to over 60 countries while maintaining specific seasonal restrictions for 14 nationalities during Hajj. While work visa processing times vary by nationality, the government confirmed there are no permanent nationality-based bans for employment visas.
Saudi Arabia and Oman Travel Alerts Reach Level 3
The elevation to Level 3 travel advisories for Saudi Arabia and Oman indicates severe security risks and likely invalidates standard travel insurance policies for those staying in these countries.