Foreign Office Issues Urgent Warning for UK Tourists in Jordan
The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has issued a critical warning for UK tourists currently in or planning to visit Jordan, following recent terrorist attacks targeting shopping malls and other public venues. This alert comes as the FCDO amended its official travel advice and guidance on Thursday, March 5, and Friday, March 6, 2026, specifically addressing the heightened risks for holidaymakers in the region.
Heightened Terrorism Threat in Jordan
The FCDO has explicitly stated that there is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, with Jordan being a particular area of concern. According to the updated guidance, terrorists are very likely to attempt attacks in Jordan, potentially targeting places frequented by foreign nationals. These locations include hotels, restaurants, tourist sites, and notably, shopping malls, where recent incidents have been reported.
In its advisory, the FCDO emphasized that attacks could be indiscriminate, putting UK tourists at risk in crowded or popular areas. The office cited examples of past attacks to illustrate the ongoing danger, such as a knife attack at the King Hussein/Allenby bridge in 2025, which resulted in fatalities, and separate incidents at border crossings in 2024 where Israeli personnel were killed.
Safety Recommendations for British Nationals
To help UK tourists stay safe, the FCDO has provided detailed guidance on vigilance and precautionary measures. Key recommendations include:
- Stay aware of your surroundings at all times, especially in public spaces like malls and tourist attractions.
- Keep up to date with local media reports to monitor any emerging threats or security updates.
- Follow the advice of local authorities and adhere to any security protocols in place.
- Refer to UK Counter Terrorism Policing resources for information on reducing risk and responding to terrorist attacks while abroad.
The FCDO also highlighted that terrorist groups and individuals may view the UK and British nationals as specific targets, underscoring the need for extra caution. This warning is part of a broader effort to ensure that travelers are informed and prepared, as the threat level remains elevated in Jordan and other regions globally.
British tourists are urged to review the full travel advice on the FCDO website, particularly the safety and security page, which has been updated with new language regarding the likelihood of terrorism in Jordan. By taking these precautions, the FCDO aims to mitigate risks and protect UK citizens during their travels.
