Saudi Arabia on edge: Iconic Kingdom Centre sends workers home amid Houthi attacks
Kingdom Centre in Riyadh told office workers to work remotely until further notice as Houthi attacks heightened security concerns in the Saudi capital. The move reflects the widening impact of regional tensions on daily life and major businesses, while the shopping mall at the base of the tower remained open.
The Saudi-led coalition said it intercepted three drones near Riyadh and the Eastern Province and two ballistic missiles in the south. Recent attacks have also disrupted airport operations and prompted schools to extend remote learning; a strike on 10 October reportedly killed 13 people and injured more than 300. In Najran, a helicopter crash killed two crew members, while a projectile injured six people. Egypt is considering defensive military support for Saudi Arabia if Riyadh requests it.
- Kingdom Centre office workers were told to stay home.
- Saudi Arabia reported intercepting drones and missiles.
- Egypt is weighing defensive support for Riyadh.
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Saudi Arabia shares a long border with Yemen, where the Houthi movement has fought the internationally recognised government since 2014. A Saudi-led military coalition intervened in the conflict in 2015, and the Houthis have since launched missiles and drones towards Saudi territory.
Riyadh is the country’s capital and its main centre of government and business. Kingdom Centre is a prominent tower with offices and a shopping mall, so changes to how its offices operate can affect workers and businesses even when public areas remain open.
The attacks matter because they can disrupt daily life and raise security concerns far from the fighting in Yemen. They also affect relations between Saudi Arabia and other countries, which may consider providing support if asked.