18. June 2026
UK Foreign Office Drops ‘Do Not Travel’ Advice for Dubai – What It Means for Holidaymakers
The UK Foreign Office has lifted its "do not travel" advice for Dubai and the United Arab Emirates following a ceasefire agreement between the United States and Iran. The move is expected to boost confidence among British holidaymakers and make it easier for travellers to secure valid travel insurance for trips to one of the world's most popular destinations.
Foreign Office Removes Travel Warning for Dubai
After weeks of uncertainty caused by conflict in the Middle East, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has removed its advice against travel to Dubai and the wider UAE. The decision follows a memorandum of understanding between the United States and Iran aimed at ending hostilities in the region.
However, the Foreign Office stressed that the situation remains unstable and warned that attacks could resume with little notice.
In its latest update, the FCDO said:
"The situation remains unpredictable and attacks could resume at short notice."
Before the ceasefire, Iran had indicated that locations associated with the United States and Israel in Gulf countries could be targeted. Previous attacks in the region have affected civilian infrastructure, including airports, ports, roads, hotels, bridges, energy facilities and water systems.
Travel Insurance Protection Restored
One of the most significant implications of the change is that travellers visiting Dubai will no longer risk invalidating their travel insurance.
Many insurance providers refuse to provide cover when the Foreign Office advises against travel to a destination. The removal of the warning means British tourists can once again book trips with greater confidence.
More Than 1.4 Million Britons Visit Dubai Every Year
Dubai has become one of the most popular holiday and business destinations for UK travellers. More than 1.4 million British visitors travelled to the emirate last year, attracted by its year-round sunshine, luxury hotels, family attractions and excellent flight connections.
The city remains a key hub for both leisure and business travel, with millions of passengers passing through Dubai International Airport each year.
Travel Industry Welcomes the Decision
Mark Tanzer, Chief Executive of travel association ABTA, welcomed the announcement and said it could provide a much-needed boost to the travel industry.
He said:
"This is the most important development for tourism to and through the Middle East in some time. We know the government won't have taken this decision lightly."
According to ABTA research, many people have delayed booking summer holidays while waiting to see how events in the Middle East unfolded.
Tanzer added that there are currently some highly competitive holiday deals available and suggested that travellers still planning their summer getaway may find now an attractive time to book.
Some Airlines Slow to Resume Services
Despite the easing of travel advice, some airlines are expected to take longer to restore their schedules.
Virgin Atlantic suspended flights to Dubai after the conflict began and has confirmed that the suspension will remain in place until winter 2027.
British Airways previously announced that it would not resume flights to the UAE until October 2026.
Meanwhile, Emirates has continued operating flights throughout the conflict and remains one of the main carriers serving Dubai from the UK.
Qatar and Saudi Arabia Travel Advice Also Updated
The UK government has also removed warnings against travel to Qatar and most areas of Saudi Arabia, signalling growing confidence that stability is returning to the region.
Should You Travel to Dubai?
While the removal of the "do not travel" warning is good news for holidaymakers, the Foreign Office continues to advise travellers to monitor developments closely.
Anyone planning a trip should:
- Check the latest FCDO travel advice before departure.
- Ensure they have comprehensive travel insurance.
- Stay informed about airline schedules and possible disruptions.
- Follow local authorities' instructions while in the region.
For now, the lifting of the restrictions is likely to encourage more Britons to return to Dubai, particularly as attractive summer deals become available and confidence gradually returns to Middle East travel.
