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The UK Government via the Foreign Office have updated their advice for travel to the UAE on 29th October 2023 ‘that the risk of terrorist attacks happening in the UAE is very likely’.

British tourists visiting the United Arab Emirates have been warned to face an increased threat of terrorist attacks by the Foreign Office. Travel advice was amended on Sunday to warn that terrorists are “very likely” to try to carry out attacks in the UAE, which includes Dubai and Abu Dhabi amongst its seven emirates. 

“Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreigners,” the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office stated.

While the Israel-Gaza conflict was not mentioned, the FCDO issued an updated assessment over the risk of terrorist attacks happening in the UAE.

“Terrorists continue to issue statements threatening to carry out attacks in the Gulf region,” the updated travel advice notice said. 

“These include references to attacks on western interests, including residential compounds, military, oil, transport and aviation interests as well as crowded places, including restaurants, hotels, beaches, shopping centres and mosques. 

“You should maintain a high level of security awareness, particularly in public places and at public events.”

The FCDO reiterated concern over a high threat of terrorist attacks globally “affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets.”

Travellers were urged to remain vigilant at all times, with similar travel advice issued for Kuwait.

Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthi group attacked Abu Dhabi with a number of missiles and drones killing three civilians in January 2022, targeting infrastructure and high profile locations, some of which were in populated areas. Although the vast majority of these missiles and drones were intercepted and destroyed, there were a small number of casualties and three civilian deaths. 

The UK Government have said further attacks are likely, going on to say if an incident does occur, you should monitor local media reports and follow the advice of the local authorities.

Travel Insurance:

It is more important than ever to get travel insurance and check it provides sufficient cover. See the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO)’s guidance on foreign travel insurance.

Around 1.5million British nationals visit the UAE every year. Most visits are trouble-free.

If you’re in the UAE and need emergency help from the UK government, contact the British Embassy in Abu Dhabi or the British Embassy in Dubai.

Foreign Office advice before you travel:  Check the ‘Entry requirements’ section for the UAE’s current entry restrictions and requirements. These may change with little warning. Monitor this advice for the latest updates and stay in contact with your travel provider.

If you plan to pass through another country to return to the UK, check the travel advice for the country you’re transiting.

Still current at:31 October 2023Updated:29 October 2023Latest update:Updated assessment that the risk of terrorist attacks happening in the UAE is very likely.