Saudi Arabia remains at Level 3 as US orders non-emergency staff to leave

Saudi Arabia stays at Level 3 as Iran-related risks persist

The U.S. State Department keeps Saudi Arabia at Level 3 , Reconsider Travel, citing potential Iranian drone and missile attacks, terrorism, armed conflict, exit bans and strict local laws covering social media activity. The current advisory was issued March 12, 2026 and a regional security alert on June 4 reiterated that Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates remain at Level 3.

Areas near the Yemen border carry a don't Travel designation due to terrorism and cross-border attacks. The State Department ordered non-emergency U.S. government employees and family members to leave the country on March 8, a step that came after a worldwide caution alert tied to the launch of U.S. combat operations in Iran.

Who the warning covers

The advisory applies to all U.S. citizens, which in practice includes tourists, expats, digital nomads and pilgrims. Remote workers based in Riyadh or Jeddah face the same airspace, missile and legal risks flagged for short-term visitors, with the added complication that consular help has been pared back.

The U.S. Embassy and consulates in Saudi Arabia have suspended routine consular services and are offering only limited emergency assistance, which slows passport renewals and notarial work for residents.

Hajj and Umrah travelers got a specific call-out. The State Department urged Americans to reconsider participation this year because of the security situation and possible travel disruptions.

Steps for travelers and residents

Saudi authorities continue to enforce Mecca access controls tied to the 2026 Hajj season. From April 18, entry to Mecca required a valid Hajj permit, a Mecca-issued residency ID or a Mecca work permit, with restrictions expected to hold through early-to-mid June.

U.S. guidance for anyone staying in the kingdom:

• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts.
• Keep passports and residency documents current and check visa status through Saudi online platforms.
• Identify nearby shelters or hardened structures and monitor local media for missile and drone warnings.
• Avoid demonstrations, large gatherings and high-profile locations linked to U.S. or Western interests.
• Build a contingency plan for departure, including alternative routes, as commercial flight space tightens during regional escalations.

Read our full Saudi Arabia guide for the complete picture and follow our nomad news feed for advisory changes.