Foreign Office Issues Updated Travel Guidance for British Nationals in Seven Middle East Countries
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has issued revised travel advice for British citizens currently located in seven Middle Eastern nations. This update comes as the situation across the region continues to evolve rapidly, prompting multiple revisions to official guidance in recent days.
Specific Countries Affected by the Updated Travel Advice
The FCDO has posted an update on social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, specifically addressing British nationals in Bahrain, Israel, Kuwait, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). An estimated 132,000 British nationals have registered their presence in the Middle East with the FCDO, with many seeking to depart the region and return to the United Kingdom at the earliest safe opportunity.
Detailed Guidance on Departure Routes and Border Crossings
The updated travel advice provides crucial information for Britons attempting to leave these countries. This includes specific guidance on which road routes should be avoided and the current status of commercial air flights. Particular attention has been paid to border crossings, with the FCDO warning that international borders in Israel and Palestine could close at short notice, including the Taba border crossing between Israel and Egypt.
The revised advice page states: "International borders in Israel and Palestine could close at short notice, including the Taba border crossing between Israel and Egypt. Check with local authorities and read Israel travel advice and Palestine travel advice before trying to cross."
Specific Guidance for British Nationals in the United Arab Emirates
For British nationals in the UAE, including those in Dubai, the FCDO has provided revised guidance on departing the country. The updated information states that there are a limited number of commercial options available, including by air from the UAE and from Oman.
The FCDO advises: "If your presence in UAE is not essential, you may wish to consider departing - if you judge you can access these options safely. Check for the latest updates from your airline or tour operator, as well as the instructions from local authorities, and the status of any border crossings before you travel."
The guidance further emphasizes that travel within or out of the UAE is at the individual's own risk. British nationals are advised to keep their departure plans under constant review and ensure their travel documents are up to date, including any visas required for onward travel.
Airline Operations and Repatriation Efforts
While travel between Britain and the Middle East remains significantly disrupted, some flights have been operating on restricted routes to repatriate British citizens from Dubai since March 3. Emirates and Etihad have been running a highly limited service, while Virgin Atlantic has confirmed it is restarting operations from both Dubai and Riyadh to London-Heathrow.
The FCDO is clear in stating that all travel to or from these nations remains at the individual's own risk. British nationals should continue to adhere to local authority guidance and obtain current information before attempting to depart.
Essential Recommendations for British Nationals
The Foreign Office provides several critical recommendations for British nationals in the affected countries:
- Do not travel to the airport unless your airline has confirmed your reservation
- Ensure you have access to emergency supplies and essential medication
- Keep departure plans under constant review
- Verify that all travel documents are current, including visas for onward travel
- Register your presence on the FCDO website to receive the most recent guidance
It is important to note that only UK passport holders can register for this service. Certain countries additionally feature a Regional Risks section providing specific guidance on areas to avoid and suggested alternatives. British nationals are strongly encouraged to consult these resources and exercise extreme caution when considering travel in the region.
