Foreign Office issue fresh update for those travelling to UAE with clear instructions for 'trapped' tourists
The Foreign Office has issued fresh advice about those who are either looking to travel to/via the UAE, or those who are stuck in the Middle Eastern country amidst the conflict in the region.
It's been almost two weeks since Donald Trump confirmed that the US and Israel launched military strikes on Iran, with the events since having a massive impact on the global economy and the travel industry particularly.
While controversies around Iran's decision to close the Strait of Hormuz continue, Trump has threatened 'death, fire and fury' if they do not reopen the popular sea passage.
This claim came just days after the President said that 'the war is very complete, pretty much'.
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Oil and gas prices have skyrocketed in the meantime, as one fifth of the world's supply of the former travels through the strait.
But amidst the ongoing drone strikes and travel bans, what about those who are currently in the Gulf region?
What is the official travel advice for UAE?
The Foreign Office (FCDO) has advised 'against all but essential travel to the United Arab Emirates', despite the nation's airspace opening on 5 March.
They have asked for UK residents to 'register your presence if you're in the United Arab Emirates', while also explaining that if you have had travel plans disrupted, you have the option of registering your interest in UK government flights from United Arab Emirates.
Brits have been told to 'remain indoors in a secure location, avoid all travel and follow instructions from the local authorities'.
Speaking of the 'increased tension' in the region, they advised that Brits monitor local and international media for the latest information, while making sure their travel documents are up to date.
"If you are advised to take shelter, stay indoors or find the nearest safe building or designated shelter. An interior stairwell or a room with as few external walls or windows as possible may provide additional protection," the FCDO added.
They said to 'stay away' from areas near military facilities, writing that 'regional escalation poses significant security risks and has led to travel disruption'.
What to do if you're travelling
The Foreign Office highlighted: "Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the FCDO," as they have made the move to 'withdraw the dependants of British Embassy staff from the United Arab Emirates.'
They add that you should check on your travel insurance if you're looking to travel, and to pick a plan which covers 'your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency'.
It is explained that the embassies will remain open, as Brits in the UAE have been told to sign up to receive alerts and information.
The airline you booked with should contact you with updates on your booking if you were scheduled to fly out in the past few days, as airlines start to resume operations.
They add on the crisis itself: "Read the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority’s guidance which covers a range of emergency situations."
Middle East air travel update
Many who are stuck in the UAE or Middle East may be stranded due to the closed or restricted airspaces in the region, which was a necessity following the strikes on US military bases across the likes of Bahrain, the UAE and Qatar.
But now, some local airlines are resuming operations while keeping tabs on any imminent threats, as the single busiest travel hub in the world.
The Middle East's largest airline, Emirates, have taken to X to say: "Emirates has resumed operations. Passengers who have confirmed bookings for this afternoon’s flights may proceed to the airport.
"This includes customers transiting in Dubai, if their connecting flight is also operating."
They told customers to check the flight schedule for upcoming flights, where you can also book seats to travel.
Not all the Gulf nations have followed suit though, as Qatar Airways announced that they will run a 'Limited Flight Schedule', listing the operating flights in a post while still halting regular operations.
They added: "Qatar Airways scheduled flight operations remain temporarily suspended due to the closure of Qatari airspace.
"Qatar Airways will resume operations once the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority announces the safe full reopening of Qatari airspace by the relevant authorities."
Topics: Travel, World News, UK News
Joshua Nair