New Zealanders warned against Saudi Arabia travel

New Zealanders have been warned to defer all non-essential travel to Saudi Arabia because of the continuing high risk of terrorist attacks on Westerners.

Residential compounds, airports, restaurants, malls and other buildings associated with Western interests or used by Westerners may be targeted by terrorists, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade said in a statement today.

"New Zealanders living in Saudi Arabia should consider carefully whether their continued presence is essential and consider departure if they are concerned for their own safety," the ministry said.

All New Zealanders in Saudi Arabia should have registered with the New Zealand embassy and informed staff of personal circumstances, including departure details.

" Extreme caution should be exercised in places frequented by foreigners."

A New Zealand woman was caught in a terror attack in Saudi Arabia in May this year.

Mother-of-four Jo Fowler, a child care centre director, hid in terror as at least 22 Westerners were slaughtered during a terrorist raid on the Saudi Arabian residential complex where she worked.

- NZPA