Iran Counterattacks Create Tension and Economic Disruption in Saudi Arabia

Riyadh: The counterattacks launched by Iran in response to the joint US–Israeli strikes have created tension and economic disruption in Saudi Arabia, affecting business, travel and daily life.

Although normal activities continue in many areas, residents and expatriate workers are reportedly living in a state of anxiety due to the ongoing conflict. Travel has declined significantly, and many people who were expected to travel back home for Eid have postponed journeys.

The number of tourists and pilgrims visiting the country for Umrah has also reportedly decreased, affecting the tourism and hospitality sectors that usually see a surge during the Eid season. If the conflict continues, expatriate workers in Saudi Arabia could face even greater uncertainty.

Saudi authorities are taking the situation seriously, especially after attacks targeting energy infrastructure. A drone strike on a labour camp in Al-Kharj killed two Bangladeshi workers, and United States Central Command confirmed that an American soldier was also killed in the same area.

Reports also said that an attempted drone strike on the Shaybah Oil Field was intercepted by Saudi defence systems. According to authorities, the country’s defence forces have managed to foil several such attacks over the past four days, even as concerns continue about the impact of the conflict on regional stability and economic activity.