The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has updated its travel guidance with a crucial advisory for British tourists crossing the Saudi-Kuwait border. Effective immediately, UK nationals who do not hold residency in Kuwait and plan to use the visa-on-arrival facility must notify the British Embassy in Kuwait at least 24 hours before arrival.
This new requirement, outlined on the FCDO’s official ‘Warnings and insurance’ page, mandates that the British Embassy shares traveler details with Kuwait’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which ultimately authorizes entry. The embassy cautions that any delay or failure to notify may result in entry complications.
Additionally, British nationals leaving Kuwait via Saudi Arabia are advised to contact British diplomatic helplines if traveling on Emergency Travel Documents, Emergency Passports, or passports with less than six months’ validity. The helplines for British Embassy Riyadh and British Consulate Jeddah are available for necessary guidance.
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These measures come amid heightened tensions in the Middle East, with ongoing conflicts involving the US, Israel, and Iran, prompting a focus on traveler safety and border security.
For those exiting Kuwait, the FCDO confirms that as of March 3, the Al Salmi / Ar-Ruqi and Al Nuwaisib / Al-Khafji land border crossings into Saudi Arabia remain open. Travelers are advised to verify the status of borders and commercial travel options through airlines and local authorities prior to departure.
The advisory stresses the importance of carrying emergency supplies and essential medication and notes that travel within and out of Kuwait is undertaken at the traveler’s own risk. Keeping travel documents current, including visas for onward journeys, is also emphasized.
British residents in Kuwait requiring exit permits must apply through the Sahel App. If sponsors deny permits without valid legal or financial reasons, an appeal can be submitted to Kuwait’s Public Authority of Manpower (PAM). Should PAM not respond within 24 hours, the British Embassy stands ready to assist.
Travelers are urged to remain vigilant, stay informed of evolving conditions, and prioritize their safety while navigating regional uncertainties.