The latest UK Foreign Office advice for Dubai and UAE

Dubai skyline
-Credit: (Image: Getty Images)


Travel in the Middle East has been thrown into disarray as tensions escalate following Iran’s missile attack on Israel earlier this week. Israel has since responded by intensifying airstrikes on Lebanon.

The ongoing conflict has led to cancelled flights, disrupted routes and diversions, with some airlines announcing cancellations to certain destinations in the region. It’s also causing growing concern among holidaymakers travelling to the area.

Dubai, part of the United Arab Emirates which also includes Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah, is a popular destination among British holidaymakers. Especially with winter approaching many Brits will be planning on heading there for a sunny getaway.

READ MORE: Emirates issues update for Dubai flights due to ‘regional unrest’

But travellers may be worried about how safe it is to fly to Dubai. Here’s what the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has to say about travel to the UAE.

Picture of the Beach near Dubai Marina with view on the skyline.
Dubai is popular for winter sun holidays -Credit:Getty Images/iStockphoto

Currently the FCDO has not issued any warnings against travel to the UAE. However, the most recent update released by the Foreign Office on September 29 does advise passengers on the conflict affecting Lebanon.

It warned travellers that hostilities could “escalate quickly” and urged Brits to monitor travel advice closely. British holidaymakers are advised to follow the FCDO travel accounts on Twitter, Facebook and Twitter, and to sign up to email notifications for when travel pages are updated.

The FCDO said: “Ongoing hostilities between Israel and Lebanon could escalate quickly and pose risks for the wider region. Monitor this travel advice and other media as the situation is changing fast.”

Another factor which poses a safety and security risk is military activity in the Red Sea area. The FCDO warned that military activity responding to attempts by Houthi militants to prevent the movement of international shipping in the Red Sea could result in travel advice for nearby countries “changing at short notice”. Travellers are urged to “monitor Travel Advice and follow any relevant instructions from local authorities”.

If you are travelling to the UAE it’s vital that you stay updated on changes to Foreign Office advice. For more information visit the FCDO website here.

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