Foreign Office Revises Travel Guidance for 12 Countries Amid Easter Holiday Period
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has issued updated travel advice for 12 countries as the Middle East crisis continues to escalate. This guidance, released overnight from Wednesday, April 1, to Thursday, April 2, 2026, comes just as many British holidaymakers and tourists are planning Easter getaways.
Key Countries Affected by the Updated Travel Warnings
The FCDO's revised information primarily focuses on destinations in the Middle East, where tensions between Israel, the United States, and other regional actors persist. However, the updates also extend to countries in Africa, the Far East, and other regions, reflecting broader security concerns.
Specific warnings for several nations include:
- Jordan: The FCDO highlights that regional escalation poses significant security risks and has caused travel disruption. Iran has publicly stated its intention to target locations associated with the US and Israel, including civilian infrastructure like ports, hotels, and airports.
- Saudi Arabia: Continued missile and drone attacks across the country pose risks from falling debris. British nationals are advised to exercise increased caution, take shelter when necessary, and avoid filming government buildings or military installations.
- Lebanon: Conflict has escalated rapidly, with limited commercial flight options from Beirut Airport. The FCDO urges non-essential travelers to consider departing now and to have a personal emergency plan that does not rely on UK government assistance.
- Israel: Travel within or out of Israel is at your own risk, with Ben Gurion Airport operating a limited schedule of outbound flights. Ensure access to emergency supplies and medication.
- UAE: Non-essential travelers may wish to consider departing if safe options are available. Keep travel documents updated and have emergency supplies on hand.
Additional Countries with Updated Guidance
The FCDO has also provided specific advice for other affected destinations:
- Kuwait: Follow local authority instructions, take shelter when advised, and use the Sahel app for alerts.
- Oman: Exercise increased caution due to limited missile and drone activity in commercial ports like Duqm, Salalah, and Sohar.
- Bahrain: Consider departing if presence is not essential, and ensure correct paperwork for travel to Saudi Arabia by road.
- Palestine: British nationals facing urgent circumstances should submit a dedicated assistance form to the Ministry of Transport using their British passport.
- Qatar: Follow local authority instructions, take shelter during alerts, and stay alert to developments via the Qatari Ministry of Interior's social media.
- South Korea: Note that Hong Kong does not recognise dual nationality or the BN(O) passport, potentially limiting consular assistance.
- Iraq: The FCDO advises against all travel to Federal Iraq and the Kurdistan Region due to recent escalation and unpredictable events.
General Recommendations for Travelers
The FCDO emphasizes that travel to or within these countries is at your own risk. Holidaymakers should:
- Check the latest updates from airlines or tour operators.
- Follow instructions from local authorities and monitor border crossing statuses.
- Ensure travel documents are up-to-date, including visas for onward travel.
- Have access to emergency supplies and essential medication.
- Develop a personal emergency plan that does not rely on UK government support.
All updated warnings and detailed advice are available on the FCDO website, and travelers are strongly encouraged to review this information before making any Easter holiday plans.
