The UK government has issued urgent safety guidance for British nationals in the United Arab Emirates, instructing them to shelter in place following a series of missile strikes in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. This advisory comes as regional tensions escalate between Iran, Israel, and the United States, impacting several Gulf states.
Airport Closures and Casualties Reported
Dubai International Airport was reportedly struck by an Iranian missile on Sunday, resulting in four injuries and prompting its closure. Similarly, Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi has ceased all flight operations after a reported attack led to one fatality and seven injuries. A passenger advisory from Dubai International emphasised that travellers should not proceed to the airport and must contact airlines directly for updates.
Expanding Conflict Across the Region
Multiple Gulf nations, including Qatar, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain, have temporarily closed their airspace as the conflict intensifies. Additional explosions have been reported in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, with American and Israeli airstrikes continuing in the area. Notably, a projectile struck the Fairmont The Palm hotel in Dubai's exclusive Palm Jumeirah district on Saturday.
Foreign Office Guidance and Evacuation Plans
The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has warned British nationals in the UAE to immediately shelter in place, register their presence with the government, and adhere to local safety instructions. The advice states: "Due to reported missile attacks, British nationals in the UAE should immediately shelter in place. Remain indoors in a secure location, avoid all travel and follow instructions from the local authorities."
Rescue operations are being coordinated, with plans to bus UK citizens across the desert to Muscat in Oman for evacuation flights. Travel correspondent Simon Calder noted that while the FCDO advises against travel, an exception may be made for this journey if planes are available. Similar efforts could potentially evacuate British citizens from Qatar, Bahrain, and Kuwait via Riyadh in Saudi Arabia.
Impact on British Residents and Tourists
Dubai and Abu Dhabi are popular destinations for British citizens, attracting many for holidays or long-term residence due to their warm climate, luxury amenities, and tax-free living. In 2025, approximately 1.4 million British tourists visited Dubai. Among those affected are Alison Woodward, 71, and Gul Woodward, 70, who travelled to Dubai for a birthday celebration but found themselves caught in the conflict. Alison described the experience as "really scary" and expressed reliance on British resilience and a cup of tea to cope.
As of 28 February, the UK Foreign Office advises against all but essential travel to the UAE, underscoring the ongoing risks in the region.
