In an official update, on March 2, the Saudi Ministry of Interior confirmed that the Kingdom's security services will continue to operate to ensure public safety, and the safety of the nation. Spokespeople and the Ministry underscored the importance for locals, residents and tourists to get their information on the current events only via official sources.
To ensure cohesive clarity on the current situation in the GCC, government bodies, alongside national, regional and low-cost carriers, have intensified real-time communication through official social and news channels, providing followers with regular updates on topics such as airport and airspace operations, up-to-date flight schedules, and overall travel conditions across the Kingdom.
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will also issue immediate notifications to citizens, residents and visitors via text message alert. This alert is accompanied by a loud alarm effect. It is advised that these alerts and messages are taken seriously, and that the guidance shared is followed exactly.
Emergency support for stranded GCC citizens
Within this framework, the Ministry of Interior has designated the unified emergency number 992, in coordination with airport passport control operations, to assist citizens of Gulf Cooperation Council countries who may be stranded at Saudi airports due to regional travel disruptions.
Hospitality measures for stranded tourists and Umrah pilgrims
Royal directives have also authorised the reception and hosting of stranded travellers, including Umrah pilgrims, with hospitality services provided until onward travel is possible. This includes the allocation of a large number of hotel rooms in Makkah to ensure comfort, care, and safe accommodation during the interim period.
What travellers should know right now
1. Stay informed via official channels: Travellers are advised to follow updates from the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs, relevant Saudi embassies, and communications from their airlines, as conditions may change or evolve at short notice.
2. Check flight plans before travelling to the airport: With airspace disruptions affecting parts of the region, passengers should confirm their flight status directly with their airline before heading to the airport. King Khalid International Airport, along with Saudia, flynas, and flyadeal, continues to publish live updates across official channels.
You can check your flight status via King Khalid International Airport WhatsApp at 920020090.
3. Contact Saudi embassies if needed: Saudi embassies and diplomatic entities can provide the most accurate and up to date guidance on current travel procedures and, where applicable, advise on coordinated return arrangements to the Kingdom.
4. Plan with flexibility: It should be noted that any and all travel plans to return to the Kingdom from abroad, or leave to travel to home states should be made with caution. Given the unpredictability of the current situation, particularly in terms of airspace, travellers should ensure they have adequate and in date travel insurance, in addition to ensuring any bookings are flexible or cancellable.
Emergency and Essential Contact Numbers in Saudi Arabia
Police: 999
Ambulance, Saudi Red Crescent: 997
Fire and Civil Defence: 998
General emergencies: 911
Natural disasters: 966
Border Guard: 994
Highway Patrol: 996
Electricity emergency, Saudi Electricity Company: 933
Water emergency, National Water Company: 939
Traffic accidents (Najm): 9200000560
General Directorate of Passports, including assistance for stranded GCC citizens at Saudi airports: 992
Please note that this article is correct at the time of publishing, and should be used only as initial guidance.
Those in need of up-to-date information and specific guidance should consult only official government approved channels for information.
