Following an escalation of conflict between Israel, the US and Iran this weekend, closed airspace and grounded flights have disrupted travel plans in the UAE, with British nationals told to “shelter in place”.
A series of explosions has been reported in Dubai and Abu Dhabi as American and Israeli airstrikes continue in the region.
The UK Foreign Office (FCDO) has advised against all but essential travel to the UAE as the regional escalation poses “significant security risks”.
Here’s the latest travel advice for the UAE, plus all the key questions and answers.
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Is it safe to travel to the UAE?
As of 28 February, the UK Foreign Office advises against all but essential travel to the United Arab Emirates due to “regional escalation” and “reported missile attacks”.
What is government advice if you are already there?
British nationals in the UAE, including Dubai and Abu Dhabi, have been told to shelter in place.
“Due to reported missile attacks, British nationals in the UAE should immediately shelter in place.
“Remain indoors in a secure location, avoid all travel and follow instructions from the local authorities,” says the FCDO.
The government also advises travellers to register their presence in the UAE for further updates and follow the advice of local authorities.
Are flights going to Dubai and Abu Dhabi?
Following the temporary grounding of flights at Dubai International (DXB) and Zayed International in Abu Dhabi, “limited” flights out of the UAE have now resumed.
A passenger advisory from DXB said: “Limited operations are expected to resume later today (March 2) with a small number of flights operating from DXB and DWC. Passengers must not travel to the airport unless they have received a confirmed departure time directly from their airline, as schedules remain subject to change.“
A post from Zayed International on Monday says: “Due to the temporary closure of UAE airspace, passengers scheduled to travel today should check directly with their airline before heading to the airport.”
UAE flag carrier Emirates had previously suspended all flights to and from Dubai until 3pm local time on Tuesday.
Emirates said in an update: “Emirates will begin operating a limited number of flights commencing on the evening of 2 March.
“We are accommodating customers with earlier bookings as a priority, and those who have been rebooked to travel on these limited flights will be contacted directly by Emirates.
“Please do not go to the airport unless you have been notified.”
Customers are able to rebook on alternative flights to the UAE for travel on or before 20 March.
How can I get home?
Thousands of British travellers are currently stuck in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The Foreign Office says they should “remain indoors in a secure location” and “avoid all travel”.
The Independent understands that rescue flights to Muscat for UAE passengers are being actively pursued – with UK citizens bussed across the desert to the Omani airport, reports travel correspondent Simon Calder.
“While the FCDO warning urges British citizens to avoid travelling, an exception would be made for the one-off journey across the border to Oman if planes are waiting to fly them home,” said Simon.
He added: “A similar operation could potentially see British citizens in Qatar, Bahrain and Kuwait taken to Riyadh in Saudi Arabia to be flown home.”
Can I cancel my holiday to the UAE?
Should you decide to cancel a flight ticket, holiday, tour or excursion to the UAE, speak to your travel provider. As the FCDO advises all but essential travel – urgent family or business commitments – to the UAE, you may be able to cancel a package holiday without penalty for a full refund. Package holidays must follow the Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018, with refunds issued if there has been a “significant change at your destination” before you travel. Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the FCDO.
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