Belgium postpones Saudi trade mission over security concerns

Belgium has postponed an economic mission to Saudi Arabia because of the security situation around Riyadh, according to a Belga report published by Belgian broadcaster BRF. The Belgian Foreign Trade Agency cited continuing attacks on the capital and its airport, uncertainty about what might happen next, and the departure of much of the mission’s advance team from Riyadh. [2]

Queen Mathilde had been due to lead the visit from 21 to 26 November 2026, with stops in Riyadh and Dammam. The original programme was intended to build partnerships between Belgian and Saudi businesses in sectors including logistics, digital technology and health. [3] [4]

The security concerns extend beyond the Belgian mission. On 9 October, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency warned of repeated missile and drone attacks around Riyadh, including its airport. An attack there on 10 October killed at least 13 people, the Associated Press reported. [5] [7]

Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot is still expected to lead a separate diplomatic visit to Saudi Arabia during the original mission dates, according to Belga. A future economic mission remains the intention, a statement cited by Dutch news agency ANP said, but no new date was reported. [1] [2]