“The United States Embassy has received reports of a potential, imminent threat against U.S. citizens in areas of Jeddah frequented by Westerners, such as markets, restaurants and shopping malls, among others,” the embassy said in a security message on its website Thursday.
The State Department reminded U.S. citizens to vary their routes when traveling within Saudi Arabia and to remain alert.
“All U.S. citizens are encouraged to be aware of their surroundings and take extra precautions when travelling throughout the country,” the warning said. “The Department of State urges U.S. citizens to carefully consider the risks of traveling to Saudi Arabia and limit non-essential travel within the country.”
The warning also reminded U.S. citizens of where they are allowed to travel.
The Saudi government limits travelers who have a pilgrimage visa to Mecca, Medina and Jeddah, according to the warning.
U.S. government personnel and their families, meanwhile, aren’t allowed to go to the cities Jizan or Najran, or within 50 miles of the Yemeni border without permission. And they are prohibited from going to the city of Qatif and the town of Hofuf “due to violent episodes that have occurred there in the past,” the warning said.
“Regardless of where you are, it is always advisable to keep your security and situational awareness levels high,” the warning added. “Be prepared to postpone or cancel activities for personal safety concerns.”
