The helicopter crashed at 06:00 local time (03:00 GMT) in Ras Tanura, killing all 14 people aboard, according to Saudi Press Agency.

The aircraft was operated by Saudi Aramco and went down near its major refinery on the eastern coast. Investigations are under way to determine the cause. The Saudi energy ministry expressed its condolences to the victims' families. Aramco has not issued an immediate comment.

State media reported that all 14 victims were Saudi citizens. The crash occurred after Aramco resumed crude oil loading at the refinery on Friday, ending a suspension of almost four months that followed the regional conflict. The company had halted operations in February.

Authorities have not disclosed the cause and have promised a full investigation.