UAE Travel in Turmoil: Latest Updates Amid Regional Conflict
The United Arab Emirates faces a severe travel disruption following an escalation of conflict between Israel, the United States, and Iran over the weekend. The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has issued a stark warning, advising against all but essential travel to the UAE due to significant security risks from reported missile attacks in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Safety Concerns and Government Guidance
As of 28 February, the FCDO explicitly recommends avoiding all non-essential travel to the UAE, citing regional escalation and ongoing airstrikes. For British nationals already in the country, including popular destinations like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, the directive is clear: shelter in place immediately. This means remaining indoors in a secure location, avoiding all travel, and following instructions from local authorities. The government also urges travellers to register their presence in the UAE for updates and adhere to official guidance.
Flight Suspensions and Airport Closures
All flight operations at Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International (DWC) are suspended until further notice, as confirmed by airport advisories. Similarly, Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi has halted flights due to the temporary closure of UAE airspace. Passengers are strongly advised not to travel to airports and to contact their airlines directly for the latest updates.
Emirates, the UAE's flag carrier, has temporarily suspended all flights to and from Dubai until 3pm local time on Tuesday, with the situation described as dynamic and continuously assessed. Customers are permitted to rebook on alternative flights for travel on or before 20 March.
Options for Stranded Travellers
Thousands of British travellers are currently stranded in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. While the FCDO advises against travel, exceptions may be made for evacuation efforts. Reports indicate that rescue flights to Muscat, Oman, are being pursued, with plans to bus UK citizens across the desert to the Omani airport for repatriation. Similar operations could potentially involve evacuations from Qatar, Bahrain, and Kuwait via Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Cancellation and Refund Policies
For those considering cancelling trips to the UAE, it is crucial to contact travel providers. Given the FCDO's advice against all but essential travel, package holidays may be cancelled without penalty for a full refund under the Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018, provided there has been a significant change at the destination before travel. However, travelling against FCDO advice could invalidate travel insurance, leaving individuals unprotected.
The situation remains fluid, with ongoing explosions reported in the region. Travellers are urged to stay informed through official channels and prioritise safety above all else.
