The Foreign Office has warned British travellers against all but essential travel to the UAE following regional escalation that has seen debris hit Dubai Marina
The Foreign Office has issued updated travel guidance for the United Arab Emirates today (March 7).
The Gulf region has been paralysed by a significant conflict involving US-Israeli forces and Iran spanning more than a week. The escalation has witnessed numerous nations across the area coming under attack from missiles and drones, with airlines suspending services leaving tens of thousands of travellers stranded throughout the region.
On Saturday a driver was killed by falling debris in the Al Barsha area of the city and drone debris hit a residential tower in Dubai Marina. This comes after Dubai airport and two five star hotels – Fairmont Hotel and the Burj Al Arab were hit by debris last weekend.
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Dubai Media Office posted on X: “Authorities confirm that debris resulting from a successful interception caused a minor incident on the façade of a tower in Dubai Marina. The situation has been contained. No injuries were reported.
“Authorities confirm that debris from an aerial interception fell onto a vehicle in the Al Barsha area, resulting in the death of a Pakistani driver.”
The Foreign Office updated it’s guidance for the UAE on Saturday March 7. Details of how to register for UK government repatriation flights were added the the site.
Foreign Office guidance for UAE.
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) is advising against all but essential travel to the UAE. Its travel guidance has been revised today (7 March).
The UK Government is arranging a charter commercial flight from the United Arab Emirates to assist British nationals wishing to depart following attacks throughout the region. The flight is scheduled to leave Dubai early next week, depending on conditions on the ground, and passengers will need to pay.
British nationals along with their spouse or partner, and children aged under 18, are able to register their interest with the FCDO.
The rest of its travel guidance states:
Regional tensions.
“Regional escalation poses significant security risks and has led to travel disruption. Stay away from areas around security or military facilities. Follow the instructions of the local authorities and monitor local and international media for the latest information.
“Read If you’re affected by a crisis abroad – GOV.UK this includes suggestions on what you might include in your emergency supplies. Sign up to FCDO Travel Advice email alerts.”
Take shelter “If local authorities advise you to take shelter, stay indoors or move to the nearest safe building immediately. The greatest risk is from falling debris caused by intercepts, and you are safest inside a secure structure. Choose an interior stairwell or a room with as few external walls or windows as possible for additional protection.
“Limit your movements to essential journeys only. When travel is unavoidable, aim to move during daylight hours and avoid crowded venues. Always let friends or family know where you are and when you are travelling, and keep your mobile phone with you and charged.
“If you are away from your home or hotel, and an attack occurs or you receive an alert from the official UAE warning system, seek shelter in the closest building immediately.
“Sign up to receive information and alerts. Read the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority’s guidance which covers a range of emergency situations.”
Leaving UAE.
“There are a limited number of commercial options available, including by air from UAE and from Oman. If your presence in UAE is not essential, you may wish to consider departing – if you judge you can access these options safely. Check for the latest updates from your airline or tour operator, as well as the instructions from local authorities, and the status of any border crossings before you travel. If you are traveling by air do not travel to the airport unless your airline has confirmed your reservation.
“Make sure you have access to emergency supplies and essential medication. Travel within or out of UAE is at your own risk.
“Keep your departure plans under review and ensure your travel documents are up to date, including any visas required for onward travel.”
