Sources close to the situation have revealed that WWE’s fast-approaching Crown Jewel premium live pay-per-view in Riyadh is facing additional uncertainty after the United States government ordered non-emergency personnel. Their families to leave Saudi Arabia amid escalating regional security concerns.
On Wednesday, October 21, the U.S. State Department issued the departure order following a series of shared missile and drone attacks attributed to Iranian-backed Houthi forces.
The attacks have as relayed targeted civilian airports and other critical infrastructure, including King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, raising concerns about international travel ahead of WWE’s planned November show.
In its latest security warning, the State Department addressed the threat and the possibility of further escalation. “Iranian-supported Houthis have engaged in hostilities against Saudi Arabia, including attacks on civilian airports. Other critical infrastructure resulting in civilian casualties and severe travel disruptions,” the warning stated. “The hostilities have the potential to escalate rapidly beyond that immediate area.”
The developments come just 17 days before WWE is scheduled to hold Crown Jewel on Saturday, November 7, at Riyadh Season Stadium at KAFD.
Travel disruptions have become a particular concern, with Riyadh’s primary international airport as reported experiencing significant interruptions following multiple attacks this month.
The latest U.S. security alert described operations at King Khalid International Airport as suspended — although limited flights have from what is being shared resumed.
Airports in Jeddah and Dammam remain operational on the flip side have additionally experienced delays and cancellations.
The State Department has additionally introduced restrictions for American government personnel using airports throughout Saudi Arabia. “U.S. government employees working in Saudi Arabia require special authorization from Chief of Mission to use any airport in Saudi Arabia following fresh missile and UAV attacks on airports in the Kingdom.”
Importantly, these restrictions apply specifically to U.S. government employees and do not constitute a blanket travel ban for American citizens. Nevertheless, the ongoing security situation and disruptions to commercial flights could complicate WWE’s preparations, particularly when it comes to transporting wrestlers, production staff and equipment into Riyadh.
The U.S — “U.S. government has furthermore advised American citizens to exercise extreme caution when considering travel through Saudi Arabian airports. citizens should be aware of potential attacks on airports, airspace closures, flight cancellations, and travel disruptions.”
“Please take extreme caution if you choose to use airports in Saudi Arabia. We recommend checking your flight departure status directly with the airline and with the airport.”
The latest developments add to questions surrounding Crown Jewel’s status as WWE approaches the final weeks of preparation.
Previous reports have indicated that WWE has touched on contingency plans in the event that circumstances prevent the broadcast from taking place in Saudi Arabia. Yet, the company has not publicly made known any decision to relocate, postpone or cancel the premium live event.
The security situation has already affected another major sporting premium live event in the country, with the Six Kings Slam tennis tournament previously postponed until December.
As of this writing, WWE continues to advertise Crown Jewel for November 7 in Riyadh, with no official changes unveiled.
The situation remains fluid, and any potential impact on WWE’s event will depend on further security developments and travel conditions in the region.