Is it safe to holiday in Dubai - everything you need to know
Is it safe to holiday in Dubai - everything you need to know
Is it safe to travel to Dubai following the US strikes against Iran
Dubai is a popular holiday destination for Brits
(Image: Getty Images )
There has been a considerable disruption to international travel following the US military strikes on Iran. British Airways cancelled all scheduled flights from London Heathrow to Dubai and Doha on Sunday, and Qatar temporarily closed their airspace after Iran fired missiles at a US base in Qatar.
The military strikes have left travellers concerned about travelling to countries like Dubai, Doha, and Qatar as airlines continue to avoid airspace. On June 22, the United States Air Force and Navy attacked three Iranian nuclear sites, with President Trump claiming in a post that the heavily fortified Fordow nuclear facility was 'gone'.
These surprise strikes prompted British Airways to cancel scheduled flights from Heathrow to popular British holiday spots, Dubai and Doha, both located in the Middle East. The airline cited safety concerns in a released statement:
"As a result of recent events, we have adjusted our flight schedule to ensure the safety of our customers and crew, which is always our top priority."
Are flights to Dubai still cancelled?
The escalating tensions significantly impact journeys to and from these Gulf powerhouses, with more than 150 carriers diverting or suspending flights since Sunday.
At the time of writing, Emirates flights from Heathrow to Dubai appear to depart as usual, and flights from Stansted are scheduled to go ahead.
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A BA spokesperson also told The Standard: 'Our flights to Dubai and Doha are scheduled to operate as normal, and our teams continue to keep the situation under review."
British Airways is currently working with passengers affected by cancellations, saying: "We are contacting our customers to advise them of their options while we work through this developing situation.
"We are offering a flexible booking policy for those customers who are booked onto services to Dubai and Doha and wish to change their dates of travel."
Is Dubai airport open?
Dubai Airports have resumed full airport operations but have issued a Travel Advisory regarding flights.
(Image: PA )
Dubai Airports have resumed full airport operations but have issued a Travel Advisory regarding flights.
It states: "Due to recent airspace closures affecting parts of the region, flights operating out of Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai World Central - Al Maktoum International (DWC) may experience delays, cancellations, or diversions.
We strongly advise all travellers to check with their airline for the latest flight status before heading to the airport, and to allow extra time for their journey."
Is it safe to travel to Dubai right now?
The UK Foreign Office has stated that the strikes could increase security risks for travellers. Their updated advice reads: "Terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
"There is a high threat of terrorist attacks globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times."
They further state that ongoing hostilities in the region and between Israel and Iran have the potential to "deteriorate further, quickly and without warning, including since US military strikes against Iran on June 22."
Travellers should also be prepared for possible disruptions, including short-notice airspace closures, delayed and cancelled flights, and other unanticipated travel impacts.
However, the FCDO has not issued any specific advice against travelling to Dubai. Thus, your trip can go ahead as scheduled, and you will still be covered by travel insurance.
The Foreign Office's "Safe to Travel" warnings issued by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office indicate the risk of travelling to a particular country or region.
These warnings are designed to help British nationals make informed decisions about their travel plans, but they do not dictate whether or not travel is permitted.
The FCDO advises against travel when the risk is unacceptably high, but ultimately, the decision to travel rests with the individual.
If the FCDO advise against travel to your destination, your travel insurance will likely be invalidated, and you may not have access to consular support if something goes wrong. So always check before you jet off.
At present, there is no warning against travelling to Dubai; it is up to the traveller to decide whether to go.
What to do before you travel
Before you travel, the FCDO recommends:
Reading the FCDO's advice on if you're affected by a crisis abroad
monitoring local and international media for the latest information
Checking with relevant airlines for the latest updates before travelling
If you have booked a package holiday to Dubai, check with your travel company to ensure that your flight is running as scheduled.
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