Saudi Arabia: Increased security likely in Jeddah for Arab League summit May 19

Event

Authorities will likely significantly increase security measures throughout Jeddah as it hosts the 32nd Arab League summit on May 19. Specific information on summit locations and venues has not been published, likely out of an abundance of caution and due to security concerns.

While there have been no specific, announced threats to the summit, large gatherings of Arab state leaders could pose an attractive target for militant groups. Security forces will respond swiftly and aggressively to any perceived threat. Authorities will likely increase security in and around the summit venue and its surrounding areas in the days leading up to the event. Additional security measures, including checkpoints and road closures, are also likely along all major routes between the venue and King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED). Authorities may also temporarily close airspace around Jeddah as key figures arrive and depart the city; flight delays are possible immediately before and after the event.

Advice

Plan for localized traffic disruptions and flight delays in Jeddah May 18-20. Heed all instructions of local authorities.