UAE Travel Advisory Updated After Drone Attack Disrupts Airports
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has issued a stark warning against all but essential travel to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) following a significant escalation in regional conflicts. This advisory comes in response to an Iranian drone strike that temporarily shut down Dubai International Airport (DXB) on Monday, 16 March 2026, severely disrupting travel plans and raising security concerns across the region.
Security Risks and Regional Escalation
According to the FCDO, the ongoing conflict between Israel, the United States, and Iran has led to "significant security risks" in the UAE. Iranian forces are reportedly targeting civilian infrastructure, including hotels, roads, bridges, energy facilities, and airports, posing a direct threat to travellers. A series of explosions has been reported in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi as airstrikes continue, heightening the urgency of the situation.
Impact on Air Travel and Airport Operations
The drone attack on Monday forced the temporary suspension of operations at DXB, the world's busiest international airport. Although the airport has since reopened, it is operating with a reduced service, leading to widespread flight cancellations. Many departing flights have been affected, which will also impact passengers in the UK scheduled to travel to Dubai in the coming days.
Dubai Airports advised travellers not to proceed to DXB unless contacted directly by their airline with a confirmed departure time, as schedules remain volatile. Similarly, Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi has restricted access to confirmed travellers only, urging passengers to verify their flight status before heading to the airport.
Advice for British Nationals in the UAE
For British nationals already in the UAE, including Dubai and Abu Dhabi, the FCDO recommends registering their presence for updates and sheltering in place. In the event of local authorities advising to take shelter, individuals should stay indoors or move to the nearest safe building immediately. The greatest risk is from falling debris caused by intercepts, and safety is maximised inside a secure structure, such as an interior stairwell or a room with minimal external walls or windows.
Holidaymakers are urged to follow instructions from local authorities and monitor local and international media for the latest information. British embassies in Abu Dhabi and Dubai continue to operate normally, but travellers are reminded that posting critical material online about the UAE government or incidents can lead to legal repercussions, as evidenced by recent arrests.
Flight Disruptions and Passenger Rights
Emirates, the UAE's flag carrier, is currently operating a reduced flight schedule following the partial reopening of regional airspace. Affected customers will receive cancellation notices and reaccommodation options. Under air passengers' rights rules, travellers are entitled to be flown to their destination as soon as possible on any available airline with seats.
Thousands of British travellers are currently stranded in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, with limited commercial options available for departure. The FCDO advises limiting movements to essential journeys only and checking for updates from airlines or tour operators before attempting to travel.
Cancellation and Insurance Considerations
If you decide to cancel a flight ticket, holiday, tour, or excursion to the UAE, contact your travel provider immediately. As the FCDO advises against all but essential travel, you may be eligible for a full refund under the Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018, which cover "significant changes" at your destination. However, travelling against FCDO advice could invalidate your travel insurance, so careful consideration is essential.
Conclusion
In summary, the situation in the UAE remains volatile due to ongoing regional conflicts and security threats. Travellers should heed FCDO warnings, stay informed through official channels, and prioritise safety above all else. For those considering travel, it is crucial to assess risks and consult with travel providers to make informed decisions.
