TUI has issued an update confirming that flights to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Qatar, and Bahrain from July 1 onwards are scheduled to operate as planned, following a change in Foreign Office guidance. The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) no longer advises against all but essential travel to these three Middle Eastern destinations, though it cautions that the situation remains “unpredictable” and attacks could resume at short notice.
FCDO Drops 'Do Not Travel' Advisory
The revised travel advice comes after the United States and Iran reached a memorandum of understanding to cease hostilities. However, the FCDO warns that “attacks could resume at short notice” despite the peace deal. By removing its “do not travel” recommendation, holidaymakers can now visit the UAE without risking invalidating their travel insurance. Previously, TUI had been forced to cancel or delay flights to the region due to airspace restrictions.
TUI Statement to Customers
In a message to customers, TUI said: “We are currently monitoring the situation across the Middle East and the latest guidance issued by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO). The FCDO no longer advises against all but essential travel to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Qatar and Bahrain.” The operator added that customers due to travel to or transit through these countries on or before June 30 would have been contacted by its pre-travel team to discuss options, including amending to an alternative holiday or cancelling for a full refund.
“If you are travelling from 1 July onwards, your holiday is scheduled to operate as planned and normal booking terms and conditions will apply,” TUI stated. The company also encouraged customers to call 0203 451 2688 for further inquiries.
Continued Risks and Precautions
While all travel to the UAE, Qatar, and Bahrain is now permitted under FCDO advice as of June 18, British nationals are warned to remain vigilant. The FCDO advised: “The US and Iran have announced a memorandum of understanding in relation to the conflict in the Middle East. The situation remains unpredictable and attacks could resume at short notice.” The department urged travellers to follow advice from local authorities, sign up to FCDO Travel Advice email alerts, monitor local and international media, stay away from security or military facilities, keep departure plans under review, and ensure travel documents are up to date. In the event of a crisis, travellers should take shelter in the nearest safe building or designated shelter, as the greatest risk is from falling debris caused by intercepts.
Other Travel Updates
In related travel news, Jet2 has confirmed a 4.5-hour check-in rule for flights at 12 UK airports, while Ryanair has made an £8 seating rule change on all flights from Thursday.
