The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has updated travel advice for six countries as regional dynamics evolve, particularly in the Middle East. The latest changes, announced between March 28 and March 30, 2026, affect travel to Palestine, Egypt, Israel, Kazakhstan, Burundi, and Oman.
For travellers crossing between Palestine and Israel, the FCDO has provided new details regarding border crossing charges. Of particular note for those planning to cross from Israel into Egypt at the Taba border, updated information highlights significant changes in fees and requirements.
Tourists heading to Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula should be prepared for increased border taxes. Entry at Taba now incurs a border tax of $20 for stays up to 15 days. Travelling beyond Taba to locations within the Sinai Peninsula, such as Sharm El-Sheikh, requires a border tax of $120 for the same duration. For journeys outside Sinai, including flights from Cairo or Hurghada airports, travellers must pay a $120 border tax plus purchase a standard entry visa costing $30.
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Additionally, a “letter of guarantee,” typically obtained through travel agents for about $20, is required alongside the entry visa when crossing at Taba. Those entering by car should budget for an extra $100 or more for parking fees.
Note that cash payments in US dollars are mandatory for all border charges. ATMs at Taba are often unreliable and run out of money, so it is advised to bring sufficient cash in advance or withdraw in nearby Eilat. Border officials may also request travellers to remove certain clothing items, including religious apparel, during the crossing process.
In Kazakhstan, new guidance on mobile connectivity is now in effect. Visitors must verify their device’s IMEI number on the imei.kz portal using a border-crossing certificate from the QazETA app and a Kazakh Individual Identification Number (IIN). Failure to complete this verification will result in SIM card blocking after 30 days, with no option to activate a new SIM. For longer stays, a global eSIM is recommended if IMEI verification isn’t possible.
Oman is currently experiencing severe flooding, leading to road closures and travel disruptions. The FCDO urges travellers to remain vigilant and adhere to instructions from the Royal Oman Police and Civil Defence authorities.
Regarding Burundi, the FCDO has softened its stance by no longer advising against non-essential travel to Bujumbura city and surrounding province but maintains travel warnings for other regions.
Finally, the situation in Israel and Palestine remains tense, with potential for sudden border closures including at the Taba crossing. Travellers are strongly advised to monitor local updates and review official travel advisories before attempting to cross borders.