United Arab Emirates – Level 3: Reconsider Travel Advisory Issued October 23, 2026
Reconsider travel
to the United Arab Emirates due to terrorism and armed conflict.
U.S. government employee travel restrictions
U.S. government employees working in the UAE need special authorization to travel to military bases and critical energy infrastructure sites due to UAE government restrictions and potential security risks. Additional staffing posture adjustments may be imposed on U.S. personnel under Chief of Mission security responsibility due to evolving security issues.
Armed Conflict
Iranian-supported Houthis have engaged in hostilities against Saudi Arabia, including attacks on civilian airports and other critical infrastructure resulting in civilian casualties and severe travel disruptions. The hostilities have the potential to escalate rapidly beyond that immediate area.
Terrorism
There is a risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in the United Arab Emirates. Visit the U.S. Department of State’s country reports on terrorism to learn more.
Terrorists may attack with little or no warning and may target tourist locations, transportation hubs, shopping areas, government facilities, places of worship, and in particular locations associated with the Jewish and Israeli communities.
Aviation Safety
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued an advisory Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) or a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR). This is due to risks to civil aviation operating within or nearby the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman region, including the UAE. For more information, Americans who plan to travel to the region should check the FAA’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices.
Local laws
Residents and visitors should be aware the UAE has strict rules on social behavior drug possession traffic violations; financial crimes video recording officials, members of the public, infrastructure, or military activity. Breaking these rules can lead to arrest, fines, or an exit ban. Americans should review the Department of State’s Destination Information Page for the UAE to learn about local laws, special circumstances, and additional information about travel to the United Arab Emirates.
Source: https://travel.state.gov/content/tsg_aem/us/en/home/international-travel/travel-advisories/destination.are.html
Originally Published: October 23, 2026