Is it safe to travel to Dubai now? Israel-Iran conflict update

The conflict between Israel, Hamas and Iran is causing escalating tensions in the Middle East, but has had no impact on the United Arab Emirates.

The FCDO does not discourage travel to the United Arab Emirates. However, on October 29, it revised its advice on visiting the UAE and stated that “Attacks are likely” and could be ‘arbitrary’, including in places visited by foreigners. They warn visitors to be careful in public areas and at public events, to remain vigilant and to follow the instructions of local authorities.

UPDATE April 16, 2024: Is it safe to visit Dubai now? Impact on flights

The conflict between Israel and Iran currently has no impact on Dubai or the United Arab Emirates as a whole.

In the case of the flight connections, there were some changes and delays during the day of the attack, as the airlines could not fly over Russia and had to flee redirect and making D-tours for the flights that fly over Iranian airspace and fly over Saudi Arabia and Egypt.

As of April 16, most airlines are still diverting their flights, which could cause delays and problems with connecting flights. Stay informed and contact your airline directly.

Official travel advice

American travel Advisory

April 16, 2024: No official update has been issued by the US for Dubai (UAE) on the Israel-Iran conflict

The United Arab Emirates is ranked at Level 2: “Exercise Increased Caution”

Be extra careful if you are in the United Arab Emirates as there is a risk of terrorism and missile or drone attacks.

There are still grave fears of attacks in the Arabian Peninsula and the Gulf that could endanger U.S. citizens and interests. Militant Yemeni groups have announced plans to attack neighboring countries, especially the United Arab Emirates, with drones and missiles.

Terrorism is still a problem in the United Arab Emirates, despite the fact that both citizens and tourists can feel safe there.

British travel Advisory

The UK travel advice was updated on April 14, 2024 to state: “Drones and missiles fired from Iran at Israel (‘Warnings and Assurances’ page).

The laws and customs of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are heavily influenced by their adherence to the Islamic faith. It is crucial to recognize the significant differences between the traditions, customs, laws and religious practices of the UAE and Britain.

Maintaining strict compliance with local laws and showing deep respect for cultures and religious practices are essential. It is imperative to recognize that certain actions who may not be considered criminals in the United Kingdom could potentially receive harsh sentences when executed in the United Arab Emirates. To see Local laws and customs.

Canada travel Advisory

April 16, 2024: No official update has been issued by Canada for Dubai (UAE) on the Israel-Iran conflict

Terrorism

Terrorism remains an ongoing problem. Terrorist organizations have said they plan to attack the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Terrorist attacks can happen at any time.

Objectives can be:

• Government facilities, military bases and educational institutions
• Religious places of worship
• Airports and various transportation facilities
• Public areas including tourist destinations, eateries, pubs, cafes, shopping malls, markets, hotels and other places popular among international visitors.

Women’s safety

Women traveling alone may experience verbal or physical abuse, intimidation or assault.

Local authorities may not be able to adequately handle complaints of sexual abuse and harassment. Women who have reported sexual assault have been jailed by Emirati officials. To avoid criminal charges, the victim must prove that the sex was not consensual. In the Canadian context, there can be very different understandings of sexual consent.

If you have been a victim of sexual abuse, you should contact the nearest Government of Canada office immediately.

• Avoid solo travel, especially at night.
• Be extra careful in sparsely populated areas.

Be careful when interacting with new or unfamiliar people.

The most important safety regulations that travelers in Dubai should pay attention to

Sharia law and prohibitions

Traditional Islamic religious law known as Sharia is strictly observed in Dubai. Same-sex relationships are not accepted and other everyday actions are prohibited, including:

• Demonstrations of public affection (PDA), including affection between individuals of the opposite sex or the same sex.
• Being drunk in public
• Holding objects containing CBD
• Wearing inappropriate clothing, especially for women, such as revealing clothing, deep necklines and short shorts
• The use of offensive language
• Inappropriate use of social media and/or the internet
• Offensive hand signs
• Spreading religious beliefs
• Taking photos of people and government buildings without prior permission
• Expressing disapproval of government actions

Dubai enforces stricter enforcement of the law and punishes violators with significant penalties and/or imprisonment.