The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has updated its travel guidance for the United Arab Emirates, including Dubai and Abu Dhabi, due to 'regional escalation'. The latest update, issued on March 14, advises British travellers to avoid areas around security or military facilities, as well as US or Israeli government facilities. The warning follows threats from Iran to attack cities in the UAE after US strikes on Kharg Island, a key Iranian oil hub.
The FCDO stated: 'Regional escalation poses significant security risks and has led to travel disruption. Stay away from areas around security or military facilities and US or Israeli government facilities.' It added that Iran continues to strike civilian infrastructure across the region, including hotels, roads, bridges, and airports. British nationals are urged to follow local authorities' instructions and monitor local and international media.
The FCDO continues to advise against all but essential travel to the UAE. Travelling against this advice may invalidate travel insurance. British nationals in the UAE are encouraged to register their interest in UK government flights if their plans are disrupted and to sign up for FCDO email updates. The government also warns against posting online content critical of the UAE, citing the arrest of a 60-year-old British tourist on March 9 for filming Iranian missiles over Dubai.
Debris from intercepted drones has fallen on buildings in Dubai, including the Fairmont hotel on The Palm. On Wednesday, four people were wounded in a drone strike near Dubai International Airport. The FCDO advises those in affected areas to shelter indoors, avoid non-essential travel, and keep mobile phones charged. For those wishing to leave, limited commercial options are available by air from the UAE and Oman, but travel is at their own risk.
