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Security Alert: Saudi Arabia, Reconsider Participating in Hajj 2026

Security Alert: Saudi Arabia, Reconsider Participating in Hajj 2026

by | May 14, 2026 | Know Your Rights Blog

Press Releases

Security Alert: Saudi Arabia, Reconsider Participating in Hajj 2026

We are monitoring the situation in the Middle East closely and will keep you updated so you can make decisions about your safety. President Trump, Secretary of State Rubio, and the Department of State have no higher priority than the safety and security of American citizens.

We urge all Americans to remain vigilant, follow local authorities’ instructions, and review the latest guidance from the U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

Options to Depart

Per the Saudi Arabia Travel Advisory, we encourage U.S. citizens to reconsider travel to Saudi Arabia. Commercial flights are available and Saudi airspace remains open with frequent air traffic restrictions to address continued missile and drone threats. Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam airports remain open and operational, but travelers are advised to check their flight status directly with the airline due to possible delays and cancellations.

We understand the airlines below have suspended some flight operations:

  • Lufthansa (including LH group airlines) and Eurowings suspended flights to/from Riyadh and Dammam through October 24, 2026;

  • KLM suspended Dammam/Riyadh flights to/from Dammam/Riyadh up to and including Sunday, May 17, 2026.

Mission Posture

The U.S. Embassy in Riyadh has directed all U.S. government employees to limit non-essential movements and abide by curfews. U.S. citizens who remain in the Kingdom should heed the advice of the Government of Saudi Arabia early warning system. At this time, the early warning system is not consistently reliable in providing timely warnings. If you choose not to depart via commercial options, you should be prepared to shelter in place in a secure location within your residence or another safe building, if needed. Have a supply of food, water, medications, and other essential items.

On March 8, the Department of State ordered non-emergency U.S. government employees to leave due to sustained missile and drone threats targeting American and diplomatic interests in the Kingdom. We are tracking reports of threats against locations where American citizens gather. We advise U.S. citizens that hotels and other gathering points including U.S. businesses may be potential targets. Iran and its aligned terrorist militias may intend to target American-affiliated universities in Saudi Arabia. Iran has specifically threatened American universities across the Middle East. On March 22, the Department of State issued a Worldwide Caution Security Alert advising Americans worldwide to exercise increased caution.

Hajj 2026

Per the Saudi Arabia Travel Advisory, and due to the ongoing security situation and intermittent travel disruptions, we advise reconsidering participation in Hajj this year.

Beginning April 18, individuals attempting to enter Mecca will be required to show a Hajj permit, a residency ID issued from Mecca, or a valid Mecca work permit. Other visa holders should depart Mecca before April 18. U.S. citizens coming to Saudi Arabia to perform Hajj are required to obtain a Hajj permit and visa through the Nusuk platform. Individuals attempting to enter Mecca without the required permit or visa will be denied entry and may face fines, jail, or deportation. April 3 was the last day for entry into Saudi Arabia on an Umrah visa. Umrah visa holders are required to depart by April 18. These measures will remain in effect until early to mid-June. Please continue to monitor and follow updates from Saudi authorities.

Embassy Operations

The U.S. Embassy and Consulates have suspended all routine consular services and are providing limited emergency services for American Citizens. For American Citizen emergencies please email the appropriate Embassy or Consulate where you reside:

Actions to Take

  • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive safety and security updates from the U.S. Embassy.

  • Maintain communication with family and friends to inform them of your status.

  • Have travel documents up to date and easily accessible.

  • Find a secure location within your residence or another safe building.

  • Have a supply of food, water, medications, and other essential items.

  • In case of an attack, stay away from any debris, and monitor news outlets for official guidance.

  • Avoid protests and demonstrations, keep a low profile, and stay aware of your surroundings.

  • Pay close attention to communications from local officials.

  • Follow the “U.S. Department of State – Security Updates for U.S. Citizens” channel on WhatsApp. Download WhatsApp at whatsapp.com/download.

  • Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams. Be careful of anyone asking for money. If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.

  • Keep your cell phone charged and pre-programmed with the following emergency numbers.

Assistance

Local emergency numbers:

  • Unified Emergency number (Police, Firefighters, traffic police, and others): 911

  • Police: 999

  • Highway security: 996

  • Ambulance: 997

U.S. Department of State: Call +1 202-501-4444 from abroad or +1 888-407-4747 when calling from the U.S. and Canada.

The contents of this (U) report in no way represent the policies, views, or attitudes of the United States Department of State, or the United States Government, except as otherwise noted (e.g., travel advisories, public statements). The document was compiled from various open sources and (U) embassy reporting.

Security Alert: Saudi Arabia, Reconsider Participating in Hajj 2026

Religion

by | May 14, 2026 | Know Your Rights Blog

Press Releases

Religion

TSA is sensitive to the needs of each individual. We train our officers to conduct screening with respect and care when handling religious items.

Talk with TSA officers about concerns you have and the best way to screen you and your items. If you continue to experience concerns during or after your screening, request to speak with a supervisor.

Information

For information on port of entry guidelines or restrictions visit U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

To File a Complaint

If your screening experience did not meet your expectations, speak with a supervisor at the checkpoint. You may also submit your concern to the TSA Contact Center.

K
L
Religious Clothing & Headwear

Loose fitting or bulky garments and head coverings, may be subject to additional screening to include pat-down screening.

K
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Religious Items

Checked Baggage

If you choose to pack religious items in your checked baggage, please ensure that it is packed appropriately. Most checked baggage is screened without the need for a physical bag search. For more information, visit checked baggage screening.

Carry-on Baggage

You may wish to pack religious items in carry-on baggage in a container that can be separated from other belongings and placed by itself in a bin for X-ray screening. We recommend using a clear plastic container or bag or easily opened to remove religious items for screening. Do not use a metal container. If the item cannot be screened by technology, let the TSA officer know.

Examples

  • Pilgrims returning from the Hajj who wish to bring back holy water in their carry-on bag should follow the 3-1-1 liquids rule or pack it in their checked baggage.
  • TSA allows palm branches, citrons, myrtle and willow twigs used during Sukkot and will screen them at checkpoints.
  • Religious figurines and books.
Your Rights as an Airline Passenger

Your Rights as an Airline Passenger

by | May 14, 2026 | Know Your Rights Blog

Press Releases

Your Rights as an Airline Passenger

As an airline passenger, you are entitled to courteous, respectful and non-stigmatizing treatment by airline and security personnel. It is illegal for law enforcement officials to perform any stops, searches, detentions, or removals based solely on your race, religion, national origin, sex, or ethnicity.

If you believe you have been treated in a discriminatory manner, you should:

  • Ask for the names and ID number of all persons involved in the incident. Be sure to write down this information.
  • Ask to speak to a supervisor.
  • Politely ask if you have been singled out because of your name, looks, dress, race, ethnicity, faith, or national origin.
  • Politely ask witnesses to give you their names and contact information.
  • Write a statement of facts immediately after the incident. Be sure to include the flight number, the flight date and the name of the airline.
  • Contact CAIR to file a report. If you are leaving the country, leave a detailed message with the information above at 202-488-8787 or at www.cair.com.

It is important to note the following:

  • A customs agent has the right to stop, detain and search every person and item.
  • Screeners have the authority to conduct a further search of you or your bags.
  • A pilot has the right to refuse to fly a passenger if he or she believes the passenger is a threat to the safety of the flight. The pilot”â„¢s decision must be reasonable and based on observations, not stereotypes. (Special thanks to the American Civil Liberties Union.)

No-Fly List and Selectee List

Individuals experiencing difficulties during travel at airports, train stations or U.S. borders may be on either the no-fly or selectee list.

It is very difficult to determine if you are on one of these lists.

You may be on the selectee list if you are unable to use the internet or the airport kiosks for automated check-in and instead have to check in at the ticketing counter. You should eventually be permitted to fly.

The no-fly list, on the other hand, prohibits individuals from flying at all. If you are able to board an airplane, regardless of the amount of questioning or screening, then you are not on the no-fly list.

If you are constantly subjected to advanced screening or are prevented from boarding your flight, you should file a complaint with DHS TRIP at www.dhs.gov/trip. Most people who file with DHS TRIP are not actually on a watch list and that service can resolve most problems.

Contact CAIR to file a report at 202-488-8787 or www.cair.com if you are experiencing difficulties traveling.

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Your Rights While Protesting

Your Rights While Protesting

by | Jun 26, 2025 | Know Your Rights Blog

Know Your Rights While Protesting

  • The First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution guarantees the right to peaceful protest.
  • You have the right to protest on public property or government-owned property but beware of restrictions, including permit requirements.
  • You have the right to protest on private property if it is your own property or if the owner gives consent.
  • When you are lawfully present in a public space, you have the right to photograph anything in plain view. If you are on private property, the owner may set rules about photography or video recordings.
  • Police officers may not confiscate or demand to view your photographs or video without a warrant, nor may they delete data under any circumstances. You have the right not to give officers your pin or password to your phone. However, they may order citizens to cease activities that are truly interfering with legitimate law enforcement operations.
  • If you are videotaping, be aware that the audio may be treated differently than the visual due to state wire-tapping laws. Be aware of audio recording restrictions in your state.
  • The First Amendment does not protect protests that become violent or result in destruction of property.
  • You must abide by curfew restrictions.

What to Do if You are Being Detained or Arrested

If police detain you:

  • Stay calm. Keep your hands where police can see them. Do not argue, resist, or obstruct the police.
  • Calmly tell the police that you are engaging in First Amendment protected activity.
  • Ask if you are free to leave. If so, walk away calmly.
  • The police may pat you down if they suspect you of carrying weapons.

If police arrest you:

  • If police insist on arresting you, you have the right to remain silent and you should remain silent until you have and speak with an attorney. If do not have an attorney, one will be appointed to represent you.
  • You may ask the reason for your arrest. You should try to get the name and badge number of the officer arresting you.
  • The arrest may be recorded, but you must put your phone or camera down when the police are arresting you.
  •  You have the right to make a local phone call or call an attorney. Police cannot listen to your phone call with your attorney.
  • If you are injured while in police custody, you have the right to medical assistance without delay.
  • The police may ask to search your belongings, including your phone. Tell them that you do not consent. They may do it anyway.
  • If the police tell you to remove your hijab or kufi, tell them that you wear it for religious purposes and ask why the police is demanding removal. If they force you to remove it, do not resist but tell them that you do not consent.
  • If there is a National Lawyers Guild (NLG) observer or other legal observer in proximity, get their attention as soon as practicably possible during or after the police encounter.

Be Prepared:

  • Bring identification and/or emergency contact information.
  • Use a sign to write a message.
  • Have a paper and pen for accurate documenting of events.
  • Try to avoid bringing a smart device. However, if you do, turn location services off. Use encryption services. Disable biometric sign-in (fingerprint and facial recognition) on your device before going to any protest. You may keep numerical passwords. You have the right not to provide your password to the police.
  • Pack a backpack of essentials and emergency supplies including identification document and/or emergency contact information, water, snack, several days of prescription drugs, wet wipes and tissues, and other essential supplies.
  • Park away from the protest site or at a friend’s house and travel by metro, bus, or foot.
  • Wear a mask to protect yourself and others from COVID-19 and try your best to adhere to social distancing rules.

Immigrant Rights

  • Everyone living in the United States has the right to peaceful protest.
  • If you are stopped by an officer, you have the right to remain silent. You do not need to tell the officer your immigration status.
  • You may not lie or provide false documents. You may refuse to show identification documents.
  • You may refuse a search if you are stopped but not arrested. The officer may still pat you down if they suspect you are carrying a weapon.
  • You have the right to speak with a lawyer if you are arrested and police cannot listen to your conversation with your lawyer.
  • You should not sign any documents until you have a lawyer with you.

Download Know Your Rights Guides

Download Know Your Rights Guides

by | Jun 26, 2025 | Know Your Rights Blog

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Your Rights With Law Enforcement

Your Rights With Law Enforcement

by | Jun 26, 2025 | Know Your Rights Blog

Your Rights with Law Enforcement

American Muslims strongly support law enforcement and the protection of our national security. As Americans, we also value civil rights. All Americans have the constitutional right to due process and to be politically active.

If you know of any criminal activity taking place in your community, it is both your religious and civic duty to immediately report such activity to local and federal law enforcement agencies.

If you are visited by federal law enforcement agents, remember:

  • You have the legal right to have a lawyer present when speaking with federal law enforcement agencies. This is true even if you are not a citizen or have been arrested or detained. This is your legal right. Refusing to answer questions cannot be held against you and does not imply that you have something to hide. Answering a question incorrectly can hurt you more than not answering at all. An attorney is best able to protect your rights.
  • You do not have to permit any law enforcement officer to enter your home or office if they do not have warrant. Law enforcement agents must have a search warrant, except in emergency situations, in order to enter your house. If they say they have a warrant, politely ask to see it before allowing them to enter. If they have a warrant, be courteous and polite, but remember that you are under no obligation to answer questions without a lawyer present. You should tell the agents that you do not consent to the search so that they cannot go beyond what the warrant authorizes.
  • You should never lie or provide false information to any law enforcement agency. Lying to law enforcement agents under any circumstance is a federal crime.
  • Remember to ask any investigator who visits you for a business card so you can give it to your lawyer. At least get the name, contact information and agency of the officer.

If stopped by police:

  • On the street: The police must have a specific reason to approach and question you. If you are approached and questioned, the police can pat you down over the outside of your clothing if they have reason to suspect that you are armed and dangerous. You do not have to answer any questions besides identifying who you are and showing a government-issued ID. After the interaction, you will be either free to leave or under arrest. Ask the officer clearly if you are free to leave or if you are under arrest. If you are free to leave, consider just walking away.
  • In your car: Keep your hands where they can be seen. If you are driving a vehicle, you must show your license, registration and proof of insurance. You do not have to consent to a search, but police may have legal grounds to search your car anyway. Clearly say that you do not consent to the search. Officers may separate passengers and drivers from each other to question them, but no one has to answer any questions.
  • If arrested or taken to a police station: Remember you do not have to talk to any police officer even if you have been arrested or detained. Clearly ask for a lawyer and one phone call until they are provided. If you cannot afford a lawyer, the government has to provide one.
  • If mistreated: Do not resist arrest or fight with any police officers. Write down the officer’s name, badge number and any other identifying information. Try to find witnesses and write down their contact information. File a complaint with CAIR as soon after the event as possible.

Your rights if contacted by DHS:

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) includes the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the Bureau of Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

If you are not a U.S. citizen and are contacted by a DHS official, remember:

  • You have the right to an attorney. It is a good idea to carry the contact information of an immigration attorney who can help you.
  • Never sign anything without reading, understanding and knowing the consequences of signing it. You have the right to have an attorney visit you if you are in detention and represent you at any immigration hearings.
  • Federal law requires you to carry your registration documents with you at all times. Once your immigration status has been shown to an officer, you do not have to answer any other questions without having a lawyer present.
  • You should not be asked improper questions. No DHS officer may ask you anything about your religious or political beliefs, groups that you belong to or contribute to, things that you have done or said in the past, or where you have traveled.
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