Foreign Office Updates Travel Advice for Brits in UAE Amid Regional Conflict

Foreign Office Updates Travel Advice for Brits in UAE Amid Regional Conflict

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has issued a fresh update this evening, March 16, 2026, regarding travel guidance for British citizens currently in Dubai and the United Arab Emirates. This comes as ongoing military tensions in the Middle East continue to escalate following recent strikes involving Iran, the United States, and Israel.

Escalating Tensions Prompt Regular Updates

Regional instability has intensified dramatically since February 28, when Iran was targeted by a series of military strikes from the United States and Israel. In response, Iran launched retaliatory actions, warning of its "most intense offensive operation" against US bases. Over two weeks later, the conflict persists, prompting the Foreign Office to maintain regular advisories for Britons who may still be abroad in affected areas.

The latest FCDO update includes crucial new information about registering your presence if you are in the UAE. A paragraph on the Warnings and Insurance page states: "With commercial flights resuming to the UK from United Arab Emirates (UAE), we are pausing our ‘register your interest in flights from UAE’ scheme."

Current Travel Advice and Recommendations

At present, the Foreign Office continues to advise against all but essential travel to the UAE. The guidance provides extensive information for anyone in the region, covering:

• Regional escalation: Advice on how to respond if tensions increase further.
• Sheltering: Instructions to follow if local authorities urge you to take shelter.
• Online activity: Guidance on posting content online during volatile situations.

For those considering departure, the FCDO notes that limited commercial options are available, including flights from the UAE and via Oman. The advice emphasizes: "If your presence in UAE is not essential, you may wish to consider departing - if you judge you can access these options safely."

Key Steps for British Nationals in the UAE

If you are still in the UAE and need to return to the UK, the Foreign Office recommends checking flight availability directly with commercial airlines. You can still register your presence in the UAE to receive further updates. Important precautions include:

1. Verify the latest updates from your airline or tour operator before traveling.
2. Follow instructions from local authorities and check the status of border crossings.
3. Do not travel to the airport unless your airline has confirmed your reservation.
4. Ensure access to emergency supplies and essential medications.
5. Keep departure plans under review and ensure travel documents, including visas, are up to date.

The Foreign Office stresses that travel within or out of the UAE is undertaken at your own risk, underscoring the importance of staying informed through official channels during this period of heightened uncertainty.