The UK Foreign Office has issued updated travel advice for 14 countries, including Turkey, Cyprus, and several Middle Eastern nations, effective from Thursday, June 18. The changes come as the summer holiday season gets underway, with email alerts sent to potentially affected holidaymakers and tourists.
Key Changes in Travel Advice
In a statement released around 2pm on Thursday, the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) announced it "no longer advises against all but essential travel" to Bahrain, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Oman, Iran, Israel, Cyprus, Yemen, Jordan, Palestine, Syria, and Turkey. For Saudi Arabia, the 14th country, the FCDO stated: "CDO no longer advises against all but essential travel to Eastern Province and to Riyadh Province." However, the FCDO continues to advise against all travel to within 10km of the border with Yemen, and all but essential travel to areas between 10km and 80km from the Yemen border.
Context and Safety Recommendations
The updates coincide with a memorandum of understanding between the US and Iran regarding the Middle East conflict. The situation remains unpredictable, and attacks could resume at short notice. British nationals are advised to follow local authority guidance, sign up for FCDO Travel Advice email alerts, monitor local and international media, and avoid areas near security or military facilities. Travelers should keep their departure plans under review and ensure travel documents are up to date. In case of shelter advice, they should stay indoors or find the nearest safe building or designated shelter. An interior stairwell or a room with few external walls or windows may provide additional protection, as the greatest risk is from falling debris caused by intercepts.
