Travel warnings and restrictions in the Middle East. Photo: Shutterstock If you’re a British citizen travelling to the Middle East right now, the situation varies depending on where you’re going. The latest UK guidance from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) highlights specific risks country by country.
Saudi Arabia comes with some of the most detailed restrictions. Areas near the Yemen border are the biggest concern. Travellers are advised to avoid zones within 10km of the border entirely, while trips within 10km to 80km should only happen if absolutely necessary.
Beyond that, parts of the Eastern Province and Riyadh are under “increased caution” due to ongoing missile and drone activity. Even when threats are intercepted, falling debris can pose a risk. Travel is still possible, but it requires awareness and flexibility.
In the UAE, daily life continues, but it is advisable to remain cautious, as there have been reports of regional strikes that have affected infrastructure, and authorities warn that the situation could shift quickly.
Travellers should limit their movement, stick to essential trips, stay aware of their surroundings, avoid crowded areas, and closely follow official alerts. Another important warning for British citizens in Saudi Arabia: posting sensitive or critical content online can lead to penalties, especially if it relates to current events.
Bahrain is facing similar regional risks. UK citizens planning to leave the country by car/road are advised to carefully read the FCDO's Travel Advice for Saudi Arabia to obtain the latest details on the entry requirements to Saudi Arabia. Not having the right documents on them will deny their entry. Also, the car you choose to travel in "must be wholly owned and registered in your name."
It is also possible to use commercial options to leace the country. If this is your case, you should "check for the latest updates from your airline or tour operator, as well as the instructions of local authorities and the status of any border crossings before you travel."
You should also carry supplies and essential medication. If you decide to stay, you should limit movement, avoid sensitive locations, and be prepared to shelter indoors if needed.
Qatar stays relatively stable, but it is not unaffected. Authorities warn of potential disruption linked to regional escalation.
Flights are operating, and in some cases, additional services have been introduced. Travellers should still monitor updates closely and be ready for sudden changes. If alerts are issued, taking shelter indoors is the recommended response.
In Oman, the situation is calmer, though not completely risk-free. There have been limited reports of drone activity "in the commercial ports and industrial areas of Duqm, Salalah, and Sohar."
Flights are still operating from Muscat to the UK, as well as from Salalah in Dhofar Governorate to Muscat. However, some regional routes are suspended, including flights to and from Khasab airport in Musandam Governorate. For consular assistance, contact FCDO by calling +968 2460 9000. The number is available 24/7.
Israel, Iran, Syria, and Iraq are considered high-risk destinations under current guidance. Travel is completely discouraged in Federal Iraq and the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. Also, the border crossing from Iraq into Kuwait is closed, and nationals need to get in touch with the British Embassy in Kuwait at least 24 hours prior so their names and passport details can be properly provided to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The latter will decide if you can enter Kuwait or not.
Nationals looking to leave Iraq through Saudi Arabia and "who are travelling on British Emergency Travel Documents, Emergency Passports, or passports with less than 6 months remaining validity" are asked to use the British Embassy Riyadh's helpline at +966 (0) 11481 9100 or call the British Consulate Jeddah at +966 (0)126225550.
FCDO warns that consular assistance from the British government in Syria is not available. "If you need help, call the FCDO in London on +44 (0)20 7008 5000."
British nationals in Israel, including citizens with dual nationality, who are "facing urgent or exceptional circumstances" and require assistance with "coordinating with airlines" to leave, are asked to submit a dedicated assistance form to the Ministry of Transport. Plus, as of 8 March, Ben Gurion Airport has begun to operate outbound flights approved for El Al, Israir, Arkia, and Air Haifa. The maximum number of passengers allowed on each flight is limited "to meet Israel Home Front Command regulations."