Kathmandu. The Australian government has warned its citizens not to travel to Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport after the Houthi attacks in various parts of Saudi Arabia.

The government has also stepped up its travel precautions to Saudi Arabia as the regional security situation is deteriorating. Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) has issued a notice through its official travel advisory service ‘SmartTraveller’, urging citizens to reconsider their travel needs in light of the security situation in Saudi Arabia and the overall regional situation.

The department said it had advised people not to travel to Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport as the airport’s operations have been affected due to recent security incidents.

According to the department, due to the regional military conflict, there is a possibility of widespread restrictions on movement, the closure of airspace, and the cancellation of flights. Such a situation can create additional challenges to the movement and safety of passengers.

However, Australian citizens who have decided to travel through the airport have been asked to reconfirm the status of their flight with the relevant airline or travel manager. It is also advised not to stay at the airport for an unnecessarily long time.

DFAT urged citizens to remain vigilant, prioritise their safety, receive regular updates on developments, and follow the instructions of local authorities. The department also advised people to stay away from military bases and energy infrastructure and take shelter in a safe enclosed area in case of an attack.

Meanwhile, the Australian government has issued a warning against travel to the southern provinces of Asir, Jizan and Najran in Saudi Arabia. It has also urged its citizens not to travel to any area within 30 km of the border with Yemen.

Australia has updated its travel advisory in response to the impact of the regional security situation around Saudi Arabia and Yemen on international air services and passengers.