The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has lifted its travel ban on the United Arab Emirates (UAE), which had been in place since March due to the Middle East conflict. The updated advice, issued on Thursday, no longer warns against all but essential travel to the region, and similar updates have been made for 14 other countries including Cyprus and Turkey.
Despite the lifting of the ban, the FCDO maintains a stark warning for British travellers. In an update on regional tensions, it states: "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 warning highlights that prior to the 8 April ceasefire, Iran had stated its intention to target locations in the Gulf associated with the US and Israel, including businesses, facilities, and institutions. Iran has previously targeted civilian infrastructure such as ports, hotels, roads, bridges, energy facilities, oil production sites, water systems, and airports across the region.
Missile and drone attacks affected the UAE in March, underscoring the volatility of the situation. The FCDO advises Brits to remain vigilant and stay informed of any developments that could affect their safety while travelling in the UAE.
