The Embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in the United States announced the suspension of operations and closure of its doors on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, due to severe weather conditions and a snowstorm affecting Washington, D.C., and several other U.S. states. This decision was made out of concern for the safety of visitors and staff in light of ongoing weather warnings.
The embassy explained in an official statement published via its verified account on the social media platform “X” (formerly Twitter), that the closure includes all its departments and offices for today, calling on Saudi citizens present in the states affected by the storm to exercise the utmost caution and vigilance.
Impact of snowstorms on the East Coast
The eastern United States, and especially Washington, D.C., is regularly hit by severe snowstorms during the winter, often causing temporary traffic disruptions and the closure of federal institutions and diplomatic missions. These storms typically bring a sharp drop in temperature and heavy snowfall, making travel hazardous.
The decision to close the embassy is a standard precautionary measure in line with safety protocols followed in the US capital, where the federal government and local authorities usually declare states of emergency or general closure to facilitate snow removal operations and prevent traffic accidents that may result from vehicles skidding.
Safety guidelines for citizens in America
In its statement, the embassy stressed the importance of Saudi citizens, whether students, tourists, or residents, adhering to the instructions issued by local authorities in each state. These instructions typically include staying home and only going out when absolutely necessary, and avoiding driving on highways that may be covered with layers of invisible black ice.
Citizens are also advised in such circumstances to constantly monitor local weather forecasts, ensure the availability of appropriate heating methods and sufficient food and water supplies, and charge their mobile phones to ensure communication in case of power outages that may accompany severe storms.
Emergency and contact numbers
The embassy confirmed that it continues to monitor the situation of its citizens and is working around the clock to provide assistance in emergencies. The embassy urged citizens facing any emergencies, God forbid, not to hesitate to contact the emergency numbers designated for Saudi citizens, which are:
This step comes as part of the Saudi government’s ongoing commitment, through its diplomatic missions, to protecting the interests of its citizens abroad and ensuring their safety in all circumstances and crises.
