Major UK journey recommendation updates for 10 nations together with UAE, Israel and Thailand

The FCDO has updated travel advice for 10 countries including Thailand, UAE, Israel, Egypt, Jordan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain and Pakistan following escalating tensions between Iran and the USA

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The Foreign Office has updated its travel guidance for UK holidaymakers regarding 10 countries overnight. The FCDO has revised travel advice for a number of Middle Eastern nations, as the region remains tense amid the escalating conflict between Iran and the USA.

The FCDO has altered travel recommendations for Thailand, Egypt, Jordan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Pakistan, Israel, Bahrain and Kuwait.

The FCDO has “updated information about regional escalation and leaving” the relevant countries. These warnings come as the US and Iran persist in their attacks on each other in the Gulf region, following the onset of hostilities this weekend.

Kuwait

If you deem it safe to exit Kuwait, the following land border crossings into Saudi Arabia are currently open as of March 3:

• Al Nuwaisib.
• Al -Khafji.

The FCDO stated: ” If travelling by car, the vehicle must be wholly owned and registered in your name. If you plan to use commercial options to depart check for the latest updates from your airline or tour operator, as well as the instructions of local authorities and the status of any border crossings before you travel.

“Make sure you have access to emergency supplies and essential medication. Travel within or out of Kuwait is at your own risk. Keep your departure plans under review and ensure your travel documents are up to date, including any visas required for onward travel.”

Bahrain

The FCDO stated: “If you judge it is safe to do so and you plan to travel by road read our Travel Advice for Saudi Arabia for entry requirements to Saudi Arabia and ensure you have the correct paperwork, or you may be denied entry.

“If staying in the Kingdom, follow the instructions of the local authorities. If you are advised to take shelter, 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.”

Israel

The FCDO reveals The Israeli Ministry of Tourism is operating shuttle services from Jerusalem and Tel Aviv to the Taba border (Egypt). British holidaymakers who entered using a B2 tourist visa can register for this service.

British citizens residing in Israel or holding dual Israeli nationality aren’t eligible for this service.

A British Embassy team is stationed on the Egyptian side of the Taba border to direct British citizens towards onward travel options to Sharm El-Sheikh Airport.

Palestinian Territories

The FCDO explains that crossing the border from Israel into Egypt at Taba requires payment of a ‘Sinai Tax’ of 25 US dollars per person (children under 24 months exempt). Payment must be made at the Taba Border Crossing in US dollars, cash only.

The border levy exempts travellers from needing an entry visa for Egypt for up to 15 days, provided they remain within the Sinai Peninsula. If your visit to Sinai extends beyond 15 days, or you’re planning to venture outside the Sinai Peninsula, including connecting flights from mainland airports such as Cairo or Hurghada, you’ll require an entry visa.

This costs 30 US dollars and can be bought at the Taba Border Crossing upon arrival or at Sharm El-Sheikh airport.

This entry visa also demands a letter of guarantee, which can be secured from travel agents situated in the arrivals hall at the Taba Border Crossing, costing 25 US dollars.

Please be aware that there are no cash machines dispensing US dollars at the Taba Border Crossing. Travellers should acquire USD beforehand or in Eilat prior to reaching the crossing as all fees must be paid in cash.

UAE

There are a restricted number of commercial alternatives available, including flights from UAE and from Oman. If your presence in UAE isn’t vital, you might want to consider leaving, the FCDO advises.

Saudi Arabia

If you believe it’s safe to do so and intend to use commercial alternatives to depart, check for the most recent updates from your airline or tour operator, along with guidance from local authorities and the status of any border crossings before you travel.

Ensure you have access to emergency supplies and vital medication. Travel within or out of Saudi Arabia is at your own risk.

Qatar

Similarly, the FCDO states limited flights are now running in Qatar and British holidaymakers should depart if it’s safe to do so. Thailand Escalation in the Middle East has triggered extensive travel chaos, including airspace shutdowns and flight delays and cancellations.

Your holiday plans could be disrupted, even if you’re not heading to the Middle East.

Jordan

The FCDO has revised guidance regarding Jordanian airspace, which has been impacted by the regional turmoil. FCDO maintains its advice against all but essential travel to Jordan, and all travel to within 3km of the Syrian border.

Egypt

International crossings in Israel and Palestine may shut without warning, including the Taba crossing point between Israel and Egypt.

The FCDO stated: “Check with local authorities and read Israel travel advice and Palestine travel advice before trying to cross.”

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