Saudi Arabia

Overview

Military strikes and reprisal attacks have occurred in a number of locations in the Middle East. The situation continues to be unpredictable, and the risk of military conflict remains. If the security situation deteriorates, travel disruptions and airspace closures should be expected. Our travel advice levels could also change at short notice. 

There remains an increased threat of attacks against United States linked locations, and Israeli communities in the region. Avoid likely targets areas, including military bases, oil infrastructure, critical infrastructure like airports, power plants and sub-stations, telecommunication sites, de-salination plants and US diplomatic facilities like US Embassies, US Consulates and identifiably US businesses.  

New Zealanders in the region should stay vigilant and monitor the media to stay informed about current events in your travel destination. 

 If you are in, or planning to travel to, the middle east, monitor local media and follow the advice of local authorities at all times, including any shelter in place orders. 

You can read more about our advice for what to do during violence or conflict here. 

For further information about the security situation in the Middle East, you can read our news article here. 

New Zealanders travelling or living in Saudi Arabia should be aware of the following: 

• There is a residual threat of terrorism in Saudi Arabia. While cross-border attacks from Yemen have largely subsided since 2022, the security situation along the Yemen border remains fragile and could deteriorate with little warning.   
• Civil unrest—public demonstrations and protests are illegal, should be avoided, and the advice of local authorities followed. 
• Local laws—ensure that you know the local laws and customs, especially around public decency, drugs and photography. 

New Zealanders travelling or living in Saudi Arabia should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air. 

New Zealanders travelling to Saudi Arabia to perform Hajj should read our advice on Travel to Hajj.  

See below for detailed travel advice. 

Consular assistance for New Zealanders

Saudi Arabia does not recognise dual nationality for its citizens. Authorities may seize extra passports if they find them. If you are a dual national, and you’re travelling with both passports, you can only leave Saudi Arabia with the passport you used to enter. See our advice for travelling as a dual citizen.

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