Foreign Office updates Dubai and UAE travel guidance and warns ‘terror attacks likely’

Brits travelling to the United Arab Emirates, which includes popular holiday destinations Dubai and Abu Dhabi, have been issued a warning by the Foreign Office. On Sunday, travel guidance for the emirates was updated, with the risk of terrorist attacks happening in the UAE deemed ‘very likely’.

Holidaymakers are urged to be vigilant in public places and at public events, and to ‘maintain a high level of security awareness’. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) warns that attacks could take place in tourist areas including restaurants, hotels and beaches.

The UAE contains seven emirates: Abu Dhabi, Ajman, Dubai, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, Sharjah and Umm Al Quwain. The new guidance for the UAE says: “Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in the UAE. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreigners.

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“Terrorists continue to issue statements threatening to carry out attacks in the Gulf region. 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 added: “There is a possibility of an increased threat against Western interests, including against UK citizens. You should remain vigilant and keep up to date with the latest developments, including via the media.” Travellers are urged to check the government’s