Singaporeans advised to defer travel to Saudi Arabia due to heightened security risks: MFA

By the Editorial Team · Thursday, October 15, 2026

Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has urged its citizens to postpone all travel to Saudi Arabia following increased missile and drone attacks on civilian airports and infrastructure, resulting in deaths and widespread disruptions. The advisory highlights serious security risks, prompting the Islamic Religious Council to recommend delaying umrah pilgrimages and urging travelers to stay informed, exercise caution, and register with official support services.

Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) has advised its citizens to defer all travel to Saudi Arabia due to escalating security risks stemming from an increased frequency of missile and drone attacks targeting civilian aviation and energy infrastructure. The advisory, issued on October 13, follows a series of assaults on multiple airports across Saudi Arabia, including Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport (KKIA), as well as airports in Abha, Dammam, Khamis Mushait, Najran, and Jizan.

Over the past few weeks, these attacks have led to the suspension of airport operations, flight diversions, and more frequent airspace closures. The most recent strikes on KKIA over the weekend resulted in at least 18 deaths and injured over 300 people, many critically. MFA warned Singaporeans currently in Saudi Arabia to avoid travel to KKIA and other identified high-risk areas and to refrain from non-essential movement within the kingdom until further notice. Travelers were urged to monitor local news closely, adhere to local authorities’ instructions, and contact airlines for updated flight information. The ministry also recommended purchasing travel insurance and registering with MFA’s eRegister system to facilitate communication and assistance if needed.

In response to these developments, the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS) on October 14 advised Singaporeans planning to undertake the umrah pilgrimage to postpone their travel plans. MUIS echoed MFA’s travel advisory and encouraged umrah travel agents to assist affected pilgrims with rescheduling and postponement arrangements, recognizing the potential financial impact on travelers. Singaporeans currently in Saudi Arabia are advised to stay in contact with their travel operators and airlines and to comply with local safety instructions. MUIS affirmed its commitment to monitoring the situation closely and coordinating with government agencies to provide timely updates to the community.

Acting Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs Zaqy Mohamad expressed deep sorrow over the attacks, stating that targeting civilians and their infrastructure is unjustifiable. He extended condolences to the victims and their families and voiced hopes for an end to the violence and the restoration of peace and stability in the region.

Those requiring consular assistance can reach the Singapore Embassy in Riyadh, the Singapore Consulate-General in Jeddah, or the MFA Duty Office, contact details for which have been made available alongside the advisory. Singaporeans who must travel to or remain in Saudi Arabia are strongly encouraged to remain vigilant, maintain contact with local authorities, and utilize official channels for support as the security situation continues to evolve.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.