The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has revised its travel advice for twelve countries in light of ongoing conflict and heightened security risks across the Middle East and beyond. With regional tensions escalating rapidly, UK holidaymakers and residents are urged to exercise caution and stay informed.
The updated guidance, released overnight between April 1 and April 2, addresses increased dangers stemming from the Gulf crisis involving Israel, the USA, and Iran. The FCDO highlights the significant security threats posed by missile and drone attacks targeting civilian infrastructure such as ports, hotels, and energy facilities in the region.
Specifically, British nationals in Saudi Arabia are advised to be on high alert due to continued missile strikes and the risk of falling debris. The FCDO recommends seeking shelter indoors, preferably in rooms with minimal external walls or windows, and following local authority instructions carefully. It also warns against photographing or sharing images of military or government sites and conflict-related incidents.
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In Lebanon, escalating violence and limited commercial flights from Beirut Airport mean travelers should consider leaving if possible. Those choosing to stay must be prepared with personal emergency plans, including access to essential supplies and updated travel documents. Travel within Lebanon is at personal risk.
Similar caution is advised for Oman, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, and Israel. In Oman, reports of missile and drone activity near commercial ports have prompted increased safety measures. Bahrain travelers should verify entry requirements for Saudi Arabia when planning overland routes, ensuring all paperwork is in order.
Travelers in Israel face limited outbound flights from Ben Gurion Airport and are reminded to stay vigilant, with updated travel status provided by airlines and local authorities. The UAE warns non-essential travelers to consider departure and stay up to date on border and flight information.
For those affected by these developments, the FCDO urges submitting an assistance form to the Ministry of Transport, using a British passport, for urgent help with airline coordination.
Additionally, the FCDO advises against all travel to Federal Iraq and the Kurdistan Region due to unpredictable conflict escalation.
In regions such as Qatar, travelers should monitor official announcements and heed safety warnings. Meanwhile, Hong Kong’s unique status means British nationals with dual Chinese citizenship may face restrictions and should carry proof if they have renounced Chinese nationality.
The FCDO continues to emphasize that travel within or out of these affected countries carries inherent risks. Travelers must keep emergency plans updated, follow local authority guidance, and prioritize their personal safety as tensions evolve.