The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has officially updated its travel advice for British nationals considering a trip to Dubai. For several months, the FCDO had advised against all but essential travel to the United Arab Emirates due to heightened tensions in the Middle East, which led to flight cancellations and service suspensions by multiple airlines following drone strikes. However, following a ceasefire agreement between the United States and Iran, certain restrictions are beginning to ease.
What Does the New FCDO Advice Say?
As of June 18, the government has downgraded its warning. The FCDO no longer advises against all but essential travel to the UAE, meaning travel insurance policies will remain valid for those who choose to visit. Despite this change, the FCDO cautions that some risk persists. The official website states: “The situation remains unpredictable and attacks could resume at short notice.”
What Should Brits Do If Hostilities Resume?
Before travelling, it is essential to review the UK government’s guidance on handling a crisis abroad. This includes preparing emergency supplies, understanding what to do during a crisis, and staying informed. Travellers are advised to follow local authority instructions, monitor local and international media, and sign up for FCDO Travel Advice email alerts. Experts also recommend avoiding areas near security or military facilities, keeping departure plans flexible, and ensuring all travel documents are up to date. If advised to take shelter, the Foreign Office advises: “Stay indoors or find the nearest safe building or designated shelter. An interior stairwell or a room with as few external walls or windows as possible may provide additional protection. The greatest risk is from falling debris caused by intercepts, and you are safest inside a secure structure.”
Are Airlines Flying to Dubai?
While the change in advice may encourage travel, some airlines are not resuming services immediately. Virgin Atlantic had previously suspended all flights to the UAE until winter 2027, and a spokesperson confirmed this remains unchanged. British Airways does not plan to resume flights to the UAE until at least October 2026. However, Emirates, a Dubai-based airline owned by the government, continues to operate flights to and from the city.
