Is it safe to travel to Dubai? Understanding the latest Foreign Office update

What is the current FCDO advice for travel to Dubai?

The FCDO does not advise against travel to any part of the UAE, including Dubai.

However, on 25 March, 2024, the FCDO updated its travel advice to reflect a change in the terror threat levels in the country. It stated that "There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets." Travellers are advised to remain vigilant at all times.

The FCDO warns that terrorists continue to issue statements threatening to carry out attacks in the Gulf region, including references to attacks on Western interests and UK citizens. Potential targets may include hotels, beaches, restaurants and shopping centres.

On 29 September 2024, the FCDO updated its travel advice regarding the situation in Lebanon, stating: "Ongoing hostilities between Israel and Lebanon could escalate quickly and pose risks for the wider region. Monitor this travel advice and other media as the situation is changing fast."

The FCDO has also warned about military activity in response to Houthi militants attempting to disrupt international shipping in the Red Sea. While this activity is currently limited to the Red Sea and Yemen, there is a possibility that travel advice for nearby countries could change at short notice.

Has Dubai been directly affected by regional conflicts?

Dubai and the rest of the United Arab Emirates have not been directly affected by the conflict between Israel and Hamas, or by the escalation in fighting between Israel and Hezbollah.

However, there have been some indirect effects:

• Airspace closures in parts of the Middle East have resulted in the cancellation or rerouting of some flights to and from Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
• Several Emirates flights scheduled for early October 2024 from Dubai International Airport were cancelled "due to regional unrest," with London among the affected destinations.
• Flights to and from Iraq, Iran and Jordan operated by Emirates and other airlines have also been affected.

Travellers are encouraged to monitor the situation closely and check with their airlines for the most up-to-date information regarding their flights.

What about the safety concerns in the UAE?

The FCDO acknowledges that while there is a threat of terrorism, Dubai is considered safe for tourists. Visitors are advised to be vigilant in public places and follow the advice of local authorities. This is a standard precaution for many travel destinations.

Can travel plans to Dubai be affected by regional military activities?

While the FCDO has not issued specific travel advisories for Dubai due to regional military activities, it's important for travellers to stay informed about the latest developments. Changes in travel advice can happen swiftly, so keeping up to date with news and FCDO updates is key. You can sign up for updates from the FCDO about travel to Dubai here.

What should I do if I have a holiday planned in Dubai?

If you have a holiday planned in Dubai, you should proceed as usual but stay informed about the latest FCDO advice. As there are no specific advisories against travel to Dubai, standard booking conditions apply, and usual policies for changes and cancellations are in effect.

What about travelling to other tourist destinations in the Middle East?

The FCDO updates also apply to Egypt, a well-known holiday destination, and the rising tourist destination of Oman, in the context of the conflict in Lebanon and the heightened military activity in the Red Sea region due to Houthi rebel attacks.

However, as with the UAE, the FCDO does not advise against all travel to these countries. Travellers are instead cautioned to stay informed about potential changes in travel advice at short notice and to follow any relevant instructions from local authorities. The emphasis is on monitoring the situation closely due to the regional dynamics, rather than specific travel restrictions for Egypt, Oman, or the UAE.

What about Morocco and Tunisia?

As of the latest FCDO update, Morocco is considered safe for tourists, as is Tunisia, except for its remote border zones. The recent updates also apply here.

What if I want to cancel my holiday to Dubai?

Cancelling your holiday should be a last resort as you will likely not be entitled to a refund under current FCDO guidance. You could ask your holiday provider to change the destination of your holiday but they are under no obligation to offer an alternative destination.

If you still decide to cancel, check with your travel insurance and the terms of your bookings for refund or rescheduling options. Note that cancellations due to transportation strikes might not always be covered under standard travel insurance policies.