Security Advisory Issued for Nepali Workers in Saudi Arabia Following Houthi Militant Attack

Authorities have reported that Nepali workers employed in Saudi Arabia have been affected following an attack by Houthi militants at Riyadh airport. In the wake of the recent assault, workers from Nepal and various other countries at the airport have been granted a temporary pause from their duties. The Nepali Embassy in Riyadh has urged all workers to adhere to security guidelines issued by the Saudi government and avoid unnecessary travel.

A Nepali worker stationed at the airport revealed that at least two terminals sustained damage and that security vigilance has been heightened significantly. They recommended that workers remain at home until further notice. This worker, who wished to remain anonymous for security reasons, said, “There are many Nepali workers at the airport after Bangladeshi staff, and they require psychological support.” The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has instructed the Nepali Embassy in Riyadh to prioritize the safety of Nepali workers.

Officials have confirmed that two Nepali nationals were injured in the attack. One Nepali worker was detained after filming a video related to the Houthi militants at the airport; however, the video was deleted, and the worker was subsequently released. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Lok Bahadur Kshetri stated that the government is coordinating necessary measures with a focus on Nepali citizens’ safety, adding, “According to information from our embassy in Riyadh, all Nepali nationals are safe, with two receiving treatment for minor injuries.”

The attack on Riyadh airport on Saturday reportedly resulted in at least 13 fatalities and over 300 injuries. Following the incident, the airport has been closed for at least one week. A large number of Nepali workers are employed at King Khalid International Airport. A Nepali official noted that workers have been granted leave and that the situation is being closely monitored. Saudi Arabia remains a major destination for Nepali laborers, with the government estimating more than 300,000 Nepalis residing there, though the actual figure is believed to be higher.