Foreign Office Updates Travel Advice for Dubai, Cyprus, and UAE Amid Regional Escalation
The UK Foreign Office has issued a series of urgent travel warnings and alerts over recent days, citing ongoing regional tension in the Middle East. Popular holiday destinations, including Cyprus, Dubai, and the wider United Arab Emirates, have all received new advisories as the situation escalates.
Current Alerts and Guidance for British Nationals
Multiple Foreign Office pages now feature a subheading directing British nationals to read the if you're affected by crisis abroad guidance on the Government website. Travelers are also advised to follow instructions from local authorities closely. The Foreign Office has confirmed that 102,000 people have registered their presence in the Middle East amid the ongoing crisis between the US and Iran.
Key recommendations include signing up for FCDO Travel Advice email alerts if in an impacted country, monitoring local and international media for updates, and staying away from areas near security or military facilities. Additionally, travelers should review departure plans regularly and ensure all travel documents are up to date.
The Foreign Office emphasizes: 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.
Specific Updates for Cyprus and UAE
In Cyprus, the Foreign Office website currently states: On 2 March 2026, the Sovereign Base Areas Administration confirmed a suspected drone impact at RAF Akrotiri. British nationals in the Sovereign Base Areas should follow instructions from the Sovereign Base Areas Administration, while those in the Republic of Cyprus should adhere to Cypriot local authorities' directives.
Local news reports indicate that France is deploying anti-missile and anti-drone systems, along with a frigate, to Cyprus to enhance defense capabilities. Additionally, RAF Akrotiri declared a security threat this morning, with personnel advised to return home and stay indoors, avoiding windows and taking cover behind heavy furniture.
For the UAE, including Dubai, the FCDO has issued an alert advising against all but essential travel, effective from February 28. British nationals in the UAE are urged to immediately seek shelter in place, remain indoors in a secure location, avoid all travel, and follow local authority instructions. Registering presence with the UK Government is highly recommended.
These updates come amid reports of missile strikes in the region and increased military activity, with Greece deploying further assets to support Cyprus. Travelers are encouraged to stay informed and prioritize safety during this period of heightened uncertainty.
