Home » EUROPE » Saudi Arabia Joins Mexico, Brazil, France, Egypt, Malaysia, Italy, Thailand, Qatar And More Amid Growing Global Risks As Canada Issues New Travel Alert
Saturday, June 28, 2025
Saudi Arabia has officially joined a growing list of countries—including Mexico, Brazil, France, Egypt, Malaysia, Italy, Thailand, Qatar, and others—now flagged by the Canadian government in a sweeping new travel alert due to rising global instability, regional conflicts, and heightened security threats. The advisory reflects mounting concerns over terrorism, armed violence, and political unrest affecting multiple destinations, prompting Canadian authorities to urge travelers to exercise increased caution abroad.
Canada has expanded its global travel advisory list, adding Saudi Arabia alongside Mexico, Brazil, France, Egypt, Malaysia, Italy, Thailand, Qatar, and other nations now considered high-risk for Canadian travelers. This alert comes amid rising regional tensions, ongoing security incidents, and persistent threats of terrorism and civil unrest that continue to evolve across several continents.
The advisory urges Canadians to exercise a high degree of caution when visiting these countries. It also warns travelers to remain vigilant, monitor local developments, and prepare for sudden disruptions that could impact air travel, border movement, and personal safety.
Saudi Arabia Faces Regional Unrest and Missile Threats
Saudi Arabia has entered a period of heightened instability, prompting Canadian authorities to issue a strong caution to travelers. The nation now faces a complex mix of security challenges, including intensifying clashes near the Yemeni frontier, escalating terrorist threats, and an increasing number of missile attacks launched by armed factions operating across the border.
Missile and drone attacks have already reached urban centers such as Riyadh, Abha, and Yanbu. While Saudi defense systems intercept many of these threats, debris from interceptions continues to endanger civilians. Travelers in the region must prepare for the possibility of airport closures, airspace restrictions, or local evacuations, all of which can happen with little or no warning.
The Government of Canada urges travelers to steer clear of regions along Saudi Arabia’s southern border with Yemen, where conflict remains intense and unpredictable. Armed Houthi factions continue to carry out cross-border strikes, often aiming at civilian zones and critical infrastructure. Conditions in the southwestern areas are highly unstable, and airport closures in these regions can occur suddenly due to ongoing security threats.
Entry Restrictions, Travel Limits, and Border Penalties
Saudi Arabia maintains restricted zones near its northern border with Iraq and in parts of the Eastern Province. The Saudi government has declared these areas “out of bounds,” and violations may result in severe penalties, including imprisonment of up to 30 months and substantial fines. Travelers are advised to avoid these areas entirely and consult authorities before approaching any land border crossings.
In the Qatif region, especially in towns like Al Awamiya and Al Musawara, a strong security presence persists. Although major violence has subsided since 2017, tensions remain high, and authorities can impose curfews at any time. Travelers entering these regions risk encountering police checkpoints, spontaneous unrest, or travel restrictions without prior notice.
Terrorism and Armed Attacks Remain Possible
Terrorism poses a consistent threat throughout Saudi Arabia. Extremist groups have targeted security forces, Shia communities, places of worship, and public venues. While large-scale attacks are rare, smaller incidents and attempted attacks occur periodically.
Public areas such as shopping centers, markets, mosques, and airports are considered possible targets. Canadian officials stress the importance of avoiding large gatherings and remaining vigilant, especially during religious holidays or high-profile events like Hajj.
Missile attacks and drone strikes also remain a pressing concern. The range and accuracy of these strikes have improved, and Canadian authorities warn that even areas far from conflict zones—including the Red Sea and Gulf regions—may come under threat. During any missile alert, travelers should seek immediate shelter, avoid windows, and stay updated through local media.
Canada Flags More Countries for Rising Risk
Saudi Arabia’s inclusion on the advisory list follows similar alerts for countries like Mexico, Brazil, Egypt, and Malaysia. Each faces unique threats but shares common patterns of civil unrest, crime, and instability.
In Mexico, authorities report violent confrontations between rival armed groups, particularly in Culiacán and Mazatlán. Armed checkpoints, highway blockades, and kidnappings continue to affect both locals and tourists.
In Brazil, gang violence, armed robberies, and mass assaults known as “arrastões” are frequent in major cities. Canadian travelers face elevated risks in popular destinations like Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, where crime remains a significant threat even in well-trafficked tourist areas.
In Egypt, Canadian officials highlight the unpredictable situation in Sinai and recent terror attacks near major attractions. Militants have targeted both security forces and foreign visitors in recent years.
Meanwhile, France, Italy, and Thailand face ongoing terror threats, political unrest, and the potential for public violence. In each of these countries, Canadian citizens are urged to stay alert in transportation hubs, public venues, and during mass gatherings.
Malaysia and Qatar are also on the watchlist due to rising geopolitical tensions and cross-border security issues. While the crime rate remains low in some of these nations, the regional instability surrounding them continues to raise concerns.
Canadian Travelers Urged to Stay Prepared
The Canadian government recommends that all travelers:
- Monitor credible local and international news sources
- Register their trip through the Registration of Canadians Abroad service
- Avoid high-risk regions and non-essential border areas
- Maintain flexible travel plans in case of disruptions
Always carry printed and digital copies of your travel insurance, visa papers, and key emergency contacts to ensure you’re prepared for any unexpected situation.
For those traveling to Saudi Arabia, a valid tourist visa is required. Canadian citizens can apply online or receive one upon arrival, but the maximum stay allowed is 90 days. Overstaying a visa results in steep fines and a mandatory payment before departure. Muslim travelers can perform Umrah on any visa, but Hajj requires a specific entry permit.
Female tourists no longer need a male guardian or sponsor upon arrival when traveling on a tourist visa. However, women entering under other visa types still face traditional regulations, including the need for a sponsor to meet them at the port of entry.
Canada has added Saudi Arabia, Mexico, Brazil, France, Egypt, Malaysia, Italy, Thailand, and Qatar to its global travel alert list due to escalating security threats, regional conflicts, and rising global instability impacting traveler safety.
Canada’s newly expanded travel advisory highlights a fast-changing global risk environment. The inclusion of Saudi Arabia, along with countries like Mexico, Brazil, France, Egypt, Malaysia, Italy, Thailand, and Qatar, underscores increasing alarm over rising geopolitical tensions and escalating safety concerns impacting international travel.
Canadian travelers are advised to review destination-specific guidance, consult their airline or travel provider, and stay informed through official government resources before departure.
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