**UK Foreign Office Issues Updated Travel Warnings for Middle East Destinations Popular with British Holidaymakers**
British travellers planning trips to the Middle East this summer are being urged to stay alert after the UK Foreign Office revised its travel advice for six countries in the Gulf region. The move comes as political tension and violence escalate between Israel and Iran, prompting authorities to warn of possible security risks and travel disturbances.
The advisory—updated on 19 June—covers the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Oman. These nations are frequently visited by British tourists, with cities like Dubai, Doha and Muscat known for luxury resorts, business opportunities and family holidays. However, officials are now asking would-be visitors to think twice and take sensible precautions.
The Foreign Office has highlighted the fluid nature of the situation, stating that regional hostilities “could escalate quickly,” potentially jeopardising both locals and foreign nationals. Travellers could face disruptions such as sudden airspace closures, delayed or cancelled flights, and other unforeseen circumstances. The situation on the ground remains unpredictable, reinforcing the need for increased vigilance.
In its guidance, the Foreign Office recommends that tourists keep themselves updated by following local and international news channels. Holidaymakers are also encouraged to heed the advice of local authorities, remain aware of their immediate environment, and check with airlines for the status of their flights prior to departure.
A spokesperson warned, “Ongoing hostilities in the region and between Israel and Iran could escalate quickly and pose security risks for the wider region.” Notably, this includes travel hubs like Dubai, which is visited by millions from the UK each year. The updated advice recommends that travellers have contingency plans and remain flexible, as short-notice changes could directly impact their journeys.
Alongside concerns over general instability, the Foreign Office has flagged the potential for terrorism in some countries. In Oman, the advisory underlines that terrorist attacks “cannot be ruled out,” and may take place in areas frequented by foreigners. Similarly, the advice for Qatar states, “Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreign nationals.” The message is clear: stay aware, remain cautious, and pay close attention to developments as they unfold.
The heightened alert follows a new intensification of military activity in the region. In the past week, Israel has conducted strikes on sites in Iran, including an attack on Tehran, alleging Iran is secretly developing nuclear weapons—a claim strongly denied by the Iranian government. In response, Iran has carried out retaliation strikes, and the violence has resulted in significant casualties. Official figures estimate at least 224 killed in Iran and 24 in Israel since hostilities broke out, underscoring the risks facing the region as a whole.
For British tourists, the renewed travel advice serves as a timely reminder of the importance of planning and caution when venturing abroad, particularly to areas experiencing political or military unrest. Although many travellers will continue their plans to visit popular destinations such as Dubai or Doha, the situation is liable to change rapidly.
The Foreign Office encourages anyone currently overseas—or intending to travel in the near future—to register with the local British embassy, ensure they have comprehensive travel insurance, and prepare emergency contact details. Keeping in close contact with airlines and tour operators is also recommended, in case alternative arrangements need to be made at short notice.
As the summer travel season approaches, high demand for Middle Eastern destinations is expected, but British authorities continue to prioritise the safety of their citizens, advocating for informed and prudent travel decisions in light of evolving regional developments.