Iran continues to target civilian infrastructure including hotels, roads, bridges, energy infrastructure, including oil production facilities, water infrastructure and airports. There are widespread movement restrictions and other travel disruptions in the region. The UAE airspace may open or close at short notice, impacting flights at Dubai and Abu Dhabi airports. We raised our level of advice for the UAE to do not travel on 28 February due to the volatile security situation in the region and military strikes.
Australian citizens, permanent residents and their immediate family members in UAE can register with DFAT to receive direct updates. See the ‘Safety’ overview section for details on how to register. Keep your registration details up to date so we can contact you with important updates.
If you stay in UAE, prioritise your safety. Monitor developments closely and follow local authorities’ advice. Stay aware of your environment and avoid government, military or energy infrastructure, including oil production facilities. Avoid US diplomatic missions and other locations associated with US interests. Follow local warning systems and, if warned of an imminent attack, move to an enclosed hardened shelter, ideally underground or close to ground level if available. If these are not available, seek an inner room without windows.
Terrorism is a threat, including in the UAE. Terrorist attacks could happen at any time or anywhere. Avoid possible targets including venues that draw in foreigners, tourists or crowds where possible.
US Embassies in the Middle East are issuing local security alerts. We encourage you to monitor US security alerts in your location and follow this advice.
The Australian Government has directed the departure of all dependants of Australian officials posted to the UAE in response to the deteriorating security situation in the Middle East.
Australian officials remain in country and continue to provide consular services. Due to the heightened security concerns, the Australian Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the Australian Consulate-General in Dubai are physically closed to the public. You can still contact our consular teams via email or telephone. See ‘Local Contacts’.
If you need emergency consular assistance, contact the Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 (if you’re overseas) and 1300 555 135 (in Australia).
We advise:
Do not travel to the UAE due to the volatile security situation in the region.
