Foreign Office Updates Travel Advice for Six Nations Including Egypt
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has issued updated travel guidance for six countries, as the ongoing Middle East crisis prompts revisions to ensure traveller safety. The affected nations include Palestine, Egypt, Israel, Kazakhstan, Burundi, and Oman, with changes announced over the weekend of March 28-30, 2026.
Key Updates for Each Country
Palestine and Israel: The FCDO has provided new information regarding border crossing charges, particularly at the Taba crossing between Israel and Egypt. Travellers are advised to carry at least $170 in cash per person, with extra funds for additional expenses, due to recent increases in fees.
Egypt: For those crossing into Egypt at Taba, border taxes vary based on travel plans. Staying in Taba requires a $20 tax for up to 15 days, while travelling further within the Sinai Peninsula costs $120. Beyond Sinai, including flights from airports like Cairo, a $120 tax plus a $30 visa fee is needed, along with a "letter of guarantee" costing around $20.
Kazakhstan: New guidance emphasizes using a local SIM card, which requires device verification via the imei.kz portal. This process needs a border-crossing certificate from the QazETA app and a Kazakh Individual Identification Number. Failure to verify within 30 days results in SIM blockage, with global eSIMs recommended for longer stays.
Oman: The FCDO warns of extensive flooding, leading to road closures and restrictions. Travellers should exercise extra vigilance and follow advice from local authorities like the Royal Oman Police.
Burundi: Travel restrictions have been eased for Bujumbura city and parts of its province, though the FCDO still advises against all travel to other areas of Burundi.
Important Travel Tips
- ATMs at the Taba Border Crossing are unreliable, so obtain USD cash beforehand, preferably in Eilat.
- Border officials may request removal of hats, coats, or religious clothing during security checks.
- International borders in Israel and Palestine could close suddenly, so check local advice before crossing.
- In Oman, monitor weather conditions and adhere to official updates due to ongoing flooding risks.
These updates reflect the FCDO's commitment to providing timely information for UK travellers navigating complex international situations. Always consult the latest FCDO advice before planning trips to these regions.
