UK Updates UAE Travel Advice Amid Ongoing US-Iran Tensions

FCDO warns British nationals travelling to Dubai and Abu Dhabi that regional attacks could resume at short notice.​​​​​​​

The UK Government has updated its travel advice for the United Arab Emirates, warning British nationals that the security situation across the Middle East remains unpredictable amid continuing tensions between the United States and Iran. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office updated its UAE guidance on 13 July 2026, and the advice remains current as of 15 July.​​​​​​​

The updated guidance states that attacks could resume with little warning, despite a memorandum of understanding reached between the US and Iran. The FCDO has noted that Iran has carried out further regional attacks since that agreement was announced, and it has cautioned that additional incidents remain possible. According to recent reports, hostilities between the two countries resumed on 7 July following allegations that the agreement had been breached, adding fresh uncertainty to an already sensitive situation across the Gulf.​​​​​​​

Britons currently in the UAE, or planning trips to destinations such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi, are being urged to stay alert and follow instructions from local authorities. 

The FCDO's recommendations include:

• Monitoring local and international news for updates
• Signing up for FCDO travel advice email alerts
• Avoiding areas surrounding military or security facilities
• Keeping passports and other travel documents up to date
• Regularly reviewing departure and onward travel arrangements
• Following official instructions promptly if advised to remain indoors or seek shelter

Travellers are also being encouraged to prepare for possible disruption and to familiarise themselves with UK Government guidance on responding to an overseas emergency, so they know what steps to take if the situation changes while abroad.​​​​​​​

The FCDO has specifically flagged that sites and infrastructure connected with the United States or Israel could face heightened risk if tensions escalate further. Previous incidents in the region have affected airports, ports, roads, energy facilities and other civilian infrastructure, meaning any renewed escalation could have wider effects on travel across the Gulf, not just within the UAE itself.

This update is a warning for travellers to remain cautious and prepared, rather than a general recommendation against all travel to the UAE. Flights and holidays continue to operate for now, but regional developments can change quickly and may affect airline schedules, flight routes or airport operations with limited notice. Passengers travelling to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or connecting through UAE airports should check the latest information from their airline before departure and allow extra time for any unexpected changes.​​​​​​​

Given the fluid nature of the situation, travellers are being encouraged to review their travel insurance carefully, ensuring it provides suitable cover for their destination, planned activities and any emergency expenses that could arise. The FCDO advises passengers to research current conditions before travelling and to arrange appropriate insurance in advance.​​​​​​​

Anyone with an upcoming trip to the UAE, or questions about how the latest advisory might affect their flights or existing bookings is encouraged to speak with a travel professional. Crystal Travel's expert travel agents are on hand to help travellers stay informed and review their options as the situation develops.