Updated to reflect the ordered departure of non-emergency U.S. government personnel and family members of government personnel on March 2. Advisory summary was updated.
Reconsider travel to the United Arab Emirates due to the threat of armed conflict and terrorism.
Advisory Summary
On March 2, 2026, the Department of State ordered non-emergency U.S. government employees and U.S. government family members to leave the United Arab Emirates due to the threat of armed conflict.
Armed Conflict
Following the onset of hostilities between the United States and Iran on February 28, there has been an ongoing threat of drone and missile attacks from Iran and significant disruptions to commercial flights. The Iranian regime has publicly stated its intention to target locations in the UAE associated with the United States.
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) recommending caution for U.S. air carriers and commercial operators operating in the Middle East, 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, and financial crimes. Breaking these rules can lead to arrest and/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.
For U.S. citizens in the United Arab Emirates:
- Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.
- Have a plan to depart in an emergency that does not depend on U.S. government help. Review our information on Crisis and Evacuations .
- Follow the U.S. Mission to the UAE on Facebook, Instagram, and X, and visit the Mission website.
- Review the Country Security Report for the United Arab Emirates.
- Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for United Arab Emirates.
- Have a plan to leave in an emergency that does not depend on U.S. government help. Review our information on Crisis and Evacuations.
- We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.
