The Foreign Office has issued updated travel advice for British nationals in eight countries affected by the escalating conflict in the Middle East, including Egypt. The advisory urges travellers to monitor events closely and review departure plans.
For Egypt, the FCDO now advises against all travel to parts of the country and against all but essential travel to other areas. British citizens in the region are encouraged to register their presence with the UK government to receive direct updates.
Updated advice also covers Bahrain, Israel, Kuwait, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, including route maps for leaving these countries if judged safe. Travellers are advised to keep documents and visas up to date, and those staying put should remain indoors and follow local authorities' instructions.
The FCDO warns that regional escalation poses significant security risks and has led to travel disruption. It advises staying away from security or military facilities and monitoring local and international media for the latest information.
Specific guidance includes border crossing details: the Taba border with Egypt is open for British tourists with B2 visas, with shuttle buses from Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. The border crossing costs $25 per person (cash only) and exempts travellers from an entry visa for up to 15 days within the Sinai Peninsula. Land borders into Saudi Arabia at Al Salmi and Al Nuwaisib are open, but vehicles must be wholly owned and registered in the traveller's name.
The FCDO also notes limited commercial options to leave Qatar and the UAE, advising travellers to consider departing if they can access these options safely. Travel within or out of Bahrain and Qatar is at the traveller's own risk.
