Is it safe to travel to Dubai and Abu Dhabi? Latest advice after Iranian missile strikes

Holidaymakers may be feeling a sense of uncertainty over travel to the Middle East after another wave of strikes in the region.

Iran launched strikes targeting US military bases in Jordan and the United Arab Emirates following US attacks on Larak Island on Sunday.

Despite the escalations, the UK’s Foreign Office (FCDO) has not changed its advice for travel to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), most recently updated on 18 June, which removed its recommendation against “all but essential travel”.

The country, popular among tourists for its ultra-modern cities such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi, was subject to this travel advisory for months following the outbreak of war between Iran and the US in February.

Here’s the latest travel advice for the UAE, plus all the key questions and answers.

Follow live: Iran-US war latest

Is it safe to travel to the UAE?

The FCDO no longer advises against travel to the UAE, but warns that “the situation in the Middle East remains unpredictable”. This still stands as of Tuesday, 1 September.

What is the government's advice?

The FCDO is still displaying advice for travellers amid ongoing regional tensions.

It says that British nationals should read its crisis abroad document, follow advice from local authorities and sign up to FCDO travel advice email alerts.

It also advises that if conflict resumes, to stay away from areas around security or military facilities, keep departure plans and travel documents up to date and stay indoors if they are advised to take shelter.

“Since 8 July there have been strikes and retaliatory attacks by Iran in a number of locations across the region against US military and civilian infrastructure. There is a risk of more attacks and unforeseen escalation in the region,” the FCDO says

“Before the ceasefire, the Iranian regime had stated its intention to target locations associated with the US and Israel, including organisations, businesses, facilities, and institutions.”

It adds: “British nationals currently in the Middle East should be prepared for possible flight cancellations, periodic airspace closures, and potential travel disruptions.”

Are flights going to Dubai and Abu Dhabi?

As of Tuesday morning, Dubai International and Abu Dhabi airport are both currently reporting delays affecting more than 320 and 140 flights, respectively.

Commercial flights to the UK from the UAE have resumed; however, several carriers, including British Airways and Virgin Atlantic, have cancelled or temporarily suspended routes in the region.

Under air passengers’ rights rules, travellers are entitled to be flown to their destination as soon as possible on any airline that has seats available in the event their flight is cancelled.

Can I book a holiday to the UAE now?

As the FCDO no longer warns against non-essential travel to the UAE, your travel insurance is likely to be valid if you now decide to book a trip. Your travel insurance is at risk of being invalidated if you travel against advice from FCDO. However, it is important to check individual policies.

Package holidays are likely to start operating as usual. There are currently no grounds for travellers to expect a refund if they cancel, nor to claim the money back through travel insurance.

If FCDO advice changes to advising against all travel, you can cancel a package holiday without penalty for a full refund.

Read more: Dubai laws you need to know before visiting