The Canadian government has advised its citizens to avoid all travel to King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh following deadly attacks attributed to Yemen’s Houthi rebels. The warning comes amid rising security concerns in Saudi Arabia after a missile strike killed 12 people and injured more than 300 others at the airport. Canada’s updated travel advisory also urges Canadians to avoid non-essential travel to Saudi Arabia because of the volatile security situation across the region. The government warned that ongoing military activity could disrupt airport operations and lead to flight cancellations or sudden airspace closures.
Canada’s ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Jean-Philippe Linteau, said the Canadian Embassy in Riyadh remains open to assist Canadians who require consular support. In a video message released on Sunday, he advised anyone who encounters missile or military debris to move away immediately and contact local authorities. He also warned Canadians against photographing or sharing images of military activity and debris on social media. The latest warning followed a deadly missile attack on King Khalid International Airport on Saturday, October 10. Saudi authorities reported that 12 people were killed and more than 300 injured. The victims included Saudi citizens and foreign nationals. Emergency services responded to the incident, while airport operations were temporarily disrupted as officials assessed the damage and addressed security concerns.
The Saudi-led coalition fighting the Houthi movement in Yemen reported that another projectile struck a passenger terminal at the Riyadh airport on Sunday. The incident came just one day after the deadly attack, raising further concerns about the safety of civilian aviation facilities and passengers travelling through the Saudi capital. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney condemned the attacks, describing the targeting of civilian infrastructure as abhorrent and unjustified. He also expressed condolences to the families of those killed and reaffirmed Canada’s concern over the deteriorating security situation. The Houthi movement, which controls large parts of Yemen, has been involved in a prolonged conflict with Saudi Arabia and forces supporting Yemen’s internationally recognised government. The group has previously launched missile and drone attacks against Saudi territory, targeting military facilities, airports and other infrastructure. The latest incidents have increased concerns about the potential expansion of the conflict and its impact on international travel. Saudi Arabia is an important regional aviation hub, connecting passengers travelling between the Middle East, Asia, Europe and Africa. Disruptions at Riyadh’s airport could affect connecting flights and travel plans for thousands of passengers. Canadian authorities have urged travellers to monitor official advisories and confirm flight arrangements directly with airlines before travelling. Canadians already in Saudi Arabia have been advised to remain vigilant, follow instructions from local authorities and prepare for possible changes to travel arrangements. The government also warned that military debris from intercepted missiles or drones can pose serious risks even after an attack has ended. Canadians who encounter suspicious objects or debris should not approach or touch them and should report their location to local authorities. The Canadian Embassy in Riyadh continues to provide consular assistance to Canadians in need. Officials are monitoring developments as the security situation remains uncertain, with further disruptions possible if attacks continue. The travel warning underscores the growing international concern over attacks on civilian infrastructure in the Gulf region. Canadian authorities have said the safety of their citizens remains a priority as they assess the evolving situation and update travel advice when necessary.