Travel experts have described the latest Foreign Office update for 14 countries as the 'most important development in some time'. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) issued new travel guidance on Thursday, 18 June, following the US and Iran's announcement of a 'memorandum of understanding' amid the Middle East conflict.
Lifting of Travel Ban
As part of the update, the FCDO lifted its travel ban to destinations such as the United Arab Emirates and Qatar, marking a turning point for travel since the war broke out in February this year. The Foreign Office cautioned about 'regional tensions' for 14 countries, including Cyprus, Turkey, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, UAE, Bahrain, Jordan, Yemen, Syria, Palestine, Israel, Iran, and Kuwait.
Key Changes
One of the most significant developments was the change for travel to the UAE. Since March, there had been a ban on all but essential travel to the region. However, from 18 June, the FCDO confirmed that it 'no longer advises against all but essential travel to the UAE'.
Mark Tanzer, Chief Executive of ABTA, The Travel Association, commented: 'This is the most important development for tourism to and through the Middle East in some time. We know the Government won’t have taken this decision lightly.' He added: 'The FCDO travel advice is an important tool for both businesses and customers. While it remains to be seen how quickly a change in FCDO advice will translate into new bookings, we expect to see a positive impact.'
Impact on Summer Holidays
Tanzer noted that research shows people have been delaying booking their summer holiday due to the Middle East conflict, and government travel advice is a key factor in confidence to travel. 'While we’re not out of the woods yet, hopefully this change will open up the market more broadly. There are some very competitively priced holidays for this summer, so if you’re still to book, now is the time to do it,' he said.
Guidance for Travelers
The Foreign Office also provided guidance in case hostilities resume, advising Brits to: read the GOV.UK page on crises abroad, sign up to FCDO Travel Advice email alerts, monitor local and international media, sign up to local information alerts, follow local authorities' instructions, keep departure plans under review, and ensure travel documents are up to date.
