The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has issued updated travel advice for ten countries, reflecting growing instability in the Middle East. The advisory changes come as tensions between Iran and the United States escalate following recent hostilities in the Gulf region.
The list of countries with updated guidance includes Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Jordan, Iraq, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Yemen, and Qatar. The updates highlight significant considerations for UK nationals travelling or residing in these nations.
In Oman, commercial flights operate between Muscat and the UK, with internal flights continuing from Salalah to Muscat. However, flights to and from Khasab airport in Musandam Governorate remain suspended. The Omani authorities urge travellers to proceed to airports only with confirmed onward travel bookings.
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Saudi Arabia faces limited airspace disruptions and temporary closures, but commercial travel options largely remain available. Travellers are advised to stay informed on airline updates, border crossing statuses, and local authority instructions. The FCDO emphasizes the need for emergency supplies and essential medications, noting that travelling within or out of Saudi Arabia carries inherent risks.
British nationals departing Bahrain via Saudi Arabia, especially those holding Emergency Travel Documents or passports nearing expiry, should contact the British Embassy in Riyadh or the British Consulate in Jeddah for assistance.
The border crossing between Iraq and Kuwait is currently closed. UK citizens intending to enter Kuwait must notify the British Embassy in Kuwait at least 24 hours in advance to facilitate entry permissions.
The situation remains volatile across the region. Syrian state media reports Hezbollah artillery fire originating from Lebanon, while Israeli strikes have targeted southern and eastern Lebanon. The UAE has announced the interception of missile and drone attacks attributed to Iran.
US President Donald Trump described the ongoing conflict with Iran as a “short-term excursion,” asserting that the war would conclude “very soon.” However, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards have warned that further US-Israeli attacks could lead to halts in oil exports through the strategic Strait of Hormuz. This threat has been met with warnings from the US about potential retaliatory action.
The FCDO continues to monitor these developments and urges UK travellers to exercise caution, stay updated on travel advisories, and maintain flexible plans amid this rapidly evolving situation.