US suspends consular services in Saudi Arabia after attack on embassy facility

The United States has cancelled all consular services in Saudi Arabia after an attack on its embassy facility, issuing a security alert and advising American citizens to shelter in place. In an official statement, the U.S. Mission to Saudi Arabia said it would remain closed on Tuesday, March 3, with all routine and emergency American Citizen Services appointments cancelled until further notice.

The Mission confirmed that a shelter-in-place notification remains active for Jeddah, Riyadh and Dhahran, urging American citizens in the Kingdom to continue staying indoors. It also advised people to avoid the embassy premises due to the attack and to limit non-essential travel, particularly to military installations in the region.

Officials said they are closely monitoring the evolving regional situation. Travellers were encouraged to review the latest security alerts, reassess travel plans in case of disruptions and make appropriate safety decisions for themselves and their families.

The advisory also urged U.S. citizens to maintain a personal safety plan, noting that crises can unfold unexpectedly while living or travelling abroad. Citizens were advised to enrol or re-enrol in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive timely updates and facilitate emergency contact.

Authorities further instructed citizens to remain aware of their surroundings, avoid demonstrations, large gatherings and areas with heavy police presence, monitor official information channels and follow the instructions of local authorities.