If you are planning to travel to in the near future, you should be aware of the fact that a travel warning has been issued for this region. The reason for this travel warning is the security environment in some rural and remote areas, which may continue to pose a security risk. The security risk may be significant, at times.
The security risk in at this time is due to possible terrorist activity which may be directed against citizens and interests. At this time, the United States Mission in is unaccompanied as a result of continued security threats and concerns. In April of 2004, all non-emergency employees and dependents of the U.S. Embassy were ordered to leave. In December of 2004, an armed attack on the U.S. Consulate General resulted in casualties to staff as well as damage to facilities.
The concern for security in this region is so great, the U.S. Department of State has urged citizens to seriously consider whether their pending travel to is absolutely necessary. You should be aware that some of the most significant security problems in this area include bombings and kidnappings as well a
s suicide operations. Indiscriminate attacks against civilian targets in public locales may occur, particularly where westerners may congregate. Whenever possible, avoid large crowds. If you do travel to this region, be aware that overland travel between major cities should be avoided at all costs at night. In some cases, overland travel may be blocked or restricted, due to security concerns.
While you are in this region, you should take prudent security precautions. These precautions should include ensuring that you have adequate amounts of fuel and provisions. If you are staying at a hotel in this region, be sure that adequate security is provided in order to avoid as many potential dangers as possible. Always be alert and adhere to all prudent security practices.
If you do plan to travel to , make a point to register with the U.S. Embassy in Riyadh through the State Department’s website https://travelregistration.state.gov.
