China urges citizens to avoid air travel within Saudi Arabia amid attacks

(ECNS) -- China has urged its citizens to avoid domestic air travel in Saudi Arabia for the time being, following repeated attacks on airports and key infrastructure.

Saudi Arabia's General Authority of Civil Aviation said early Wednesday that King Fahd International Airport in Dammam was attacked Tuesday evening, leaving one person dead and eight injured. The extent of the material damage is still being assessed, according to a notice posted by the Chinese Embassy in Saudi Arabia on WeChat.

A separate official report said an Aden Airlines passenger plane was damaged in the attack, leaving one person on board injured.

Airports and key facilities in Riyadh, Dammam and other parts of Saudi Arabia have come under repeated missile and drone attacks in recent days, the embassy said. It added that there was no confirmed information on when King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh and airports in some southern cities would resume operations. Flights at airports in other cities have also faced frequent, widespread disruptions.

The embassy and Chinese consulates in Saudi Arabia urged Chinese citizens and businesses to strengthen safety precautions, limit non-essential travel and stay away from airports, oil facilities, military bases and other sensitive sites. They also warned against photographing military operations or sensitive facilities.

Travelers who have already booked flights should stay in close contact with their airlines and monitor flight updates and airport conditions, the embassy said. Those planning to enter or leave Saudi Arabia by land through a third country should check that country's entry requirements and carry essential documents.

The embassy also advised travelers undertaking long-distance road journeys to follow traffic rules and take precautions.

Emergency numbers in Saudi Arabia include 999 for police, or 911 in Riyadh, Mecca, Medina and the Eastern Province; 993 for traffic accidents; 997 for ambulance services; and 998 for fire emergencies.

China's 24-hour consular protection hotline is +86-10-12308 or +86-10-65612308. The Chinese Embassy in Saudi Arabia can be reached at +966-11-4831590, and the Chinese Consulate General in Jeddah at +966-508399809.

（By Evelyn）