Dubai UAE Travel Advice: Key Updates Amid Regional Tensions
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) remains one of the Middle East’s top travel destinations, offering a mix of vibrant cities, expansive deserts, and stunning coastlines. In Dubai, visitors can marvel at the world’s tallest skyscraper, indulge in luxurious resort hotels, and see traditional wooden boats still cruising the creek. Abu Dhabi, the capital, though more low-key, boasts exciting theme parks and remarkable architecture. The other five emirates each have their distinct character as well.
While the UAE is considered safe for tourists, with most trips going smoothly, there are a few things travelers should keep in mind.
There has been rising tension in the region following a missile attack by Iran on Israel on Tuesday, October 1. Iran fired multiple ballistic missiles at Israel in retaliation for its “limited, localized” invasion of Lebanon aimed at Hezbollah, an ally of Tehran. The situation remains tense as Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu has vowed that Iran “will pay” for this strike.
This escalation coincides with the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, alongside intensified clashes between Israel and Lebanon-based Hezbollah. On September 29, 2024, the UK Foreign Office updated its travel advisory for the UAE, warning that the conflict could rapidly escalate, posing broader regional risks (more details below).
On March 25, 2024, the Foreign Office had previously updated its guidance regarding the UAE, reflecting an increase in the assessed terrorism threat level. The UAE remains safe to visit, but the heightened terror risk requires travelers to “stay vigilant at all times.”
If you’re planning a trip to Dubai or elsewhere in the UAE, here’s what you should be aware of:
What’s the latest travel advice for the UAE?
The UK Foreign Office does not currently advise against traveling to any area of the UAE. However, on March 25, 2024, they updated their advice due to an increased terror threat level. Their statement reads: “There is a significant global threat of terrorism, targeting UK interests and nationals, including from individuals or groups that consider the UK and its citizens to be targets. Stay alert at all times.”
Additionally, on September 29, a further update was issued, noting: “Hostilities between Israel and Lebanon could rapidly worsen, increasing risks across the region. Keep up with travel advisories and media reports as the situation is evolving quickly.”
The Foreign Office also cautioned that “Military operations are ongoing in response to attempts by Houthi militants to block international shipping in the Red Sea. While the conflict is confined to the Red Sea and Yemen, travel guidance for nearby countries could change suddenly. Travelers should follow local authority advice and monitor updates closely.”
Have flights to Dubai and Abu Dhabi been disrupted?
Yes, the regional unrest has impacted flights to and from Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Airspace closures across parts of the Middle East have led to several flight cancellations or diversions on Tuesday, October 2. Emirates canceled multiple flights on October 2 and 3, including routes between Dubai International Airport and London.
In addition, Emirates flights scheduled to operate between Dubai and cities like Basra, Baghdad (Iraq), Tehran (Iran), and Amman (Jordan) on October 2 and 3 were also canceled due to the situation.
On October 2, around 80 flights operated by various airlines, including British Airways, Etihad, and Lufthansa, bound for UAE destinations were either rerouted or canceled. The Foreign Office has further cautioned that terrorist groups have issued warnings threatening attacks in the Gulf region, specifically targeting Western interests, including UK nationals.
Potential targets could include hotels, restaurants, shopping malls, and public beaches.
Is Dubai directly affected by the Middle East conflict?
While Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and the other emirates have not been directly impacted by the Israel-Hamas conflict or the escalation between Israel and Hezbollah, air travel has been disrupted due to regional instability.
Etihad Airways has stated that airspace closures in the region are expected to cause ongoing disruptions to flights. The airline assured that safety is its top priority, and it will only operate in secure airspace. Etihad also advised that passengers transiting through Dubai, with final destinations in Iraq, Iran, or Jordan, would not be allowed to board at their departure point until further notice.
Travelers are advised to check their airline’s website for the most current updates on their flight status.