Regional Security Brief – 27 October 2026

At a Glance

1. Since July, a renewed Houthi campaign of missile and drone attacks has reached airports and energy infrastructure across Saudi Arabia, alongside continuing disruption to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.

2. The FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the whole of the Kingdom and advises British nationals to stay away from King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh.

3. The Ministry of Finance, the IMF and the World Bank all expect the Saudi economy to contract in 2026 because of lost oil output, while the non-oil economy continues to grow and a recovery is forecast for 2027.

4. In SBJBC Research’s assessment, companies already operating in the Kingdom can continue to do so with appropriate precautions, and much new commercial engagement can be taken forward without travel.

5. Current FCDO advice still allows essential travel to the Kingdom, and members should follow it closely. Revision either way, whether an easing or a tightening, will shape what is possible for business in the months ahead.

This brief sets out SBJBC Research’s assessment and does not replace FCDO travel advice, the terms of insurance policies or companies’ own security advice.

Read the full brief: [SBJBC Regional Security Brief 27 October 2026]