Foreign Office Updates Travel Advice for Kuwait with 'Do Not Travel' Warning
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has issued a significant update to its travel guidance for Kuwait, adding the country to its 'do not travel' list. This announcement was made on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, urging British tourists to reconsider any plans to visit the region due to heightened security risks.
Essential Travel Only Advised Amid Terrorism Concerns
The FCDO now explicitly advises against all but essential travel to Kuwait, citing increased risks from terrorism as a primary concern. In its updated travel advice, the office emphasizes the importance of safety precautions for any British nationals currently in the country.
British nationals are strongly encouraged to register their presence with the UK government if they are in Kuwait. This registration ensures they receive timely updates and assistance should the security situation deteriorate further.
Security Precautions and Regional Escalation
The Foreign Office guidance highlights that regional escalation poses significant security risks and has already led to travel disruption in the area. Specific safety measures recommended include:
- Avoiding areas around security or military facilities
- Following instructions from local authorities diligently
- Monitoring both local and international media for the latest developments
- Being prepared to take shelter if advised to do so
The guidance further explains: "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."
Border Crossing Information and Recent Incidents
For those who judge it safe to leave Kuwait, the FCDO notes that as of March 3, the following land border crossings into Saudi Arabia remain open:
- Al Salmi / Ar-Ruqi
- Al Nuwaisib / Al-Khafji
This travel warning comes just 48 hours after a concerning incident involving three US fighter jets. According to US Central Command (Centcom), the F-15 jets were mistakenly shot down by Kuwaiti air defenses in what has been described as "an apparent friendly fire incident" while supporting US-Israeli hostilities with Iran.
Officials confirmed on Monday that all six crew members ejected safely and have been recovered. The cause of this incident is currently under investigation, adding to the already tense regional security environment.
Ongoing Regional Tensions
The security situation in the region remains volatile, with fresh attacks reported from both sides of the conflict on Monday. Additionally, Iran has denied recent suggestions that it is ready for new negotiations with the US, further complicating diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions.
The FCDO's updated travel advice reflects these developing security concerns and underscores the importance of vigilance for British citizens in or planning to travel to Kuwait. The office continues to monitor the situation closely and will provide further updates as necessary.
