The US has updated its UAE travel advisory to warn of an increased potential for armed attacks by Iranian-supported Houthi forces. The advisory remained at Level 3, “Reconsider Travel,” with no change to its risk indicators, as of October 25, 2026.

Key Takeaways

  • The update changed the advisory summary, not the formal travel level.
  • US government employees need special authorization to visit military bases and critical energy infrastructure sites in the UAE.

What the UAE travel advisory says

The advisory cites terrorism and armed conflict as reasons to reconsider travel. The US Embassy said Houthi hostilities against Saudi Arabia have included attacks on civilian airports and other critical infrastructure, causing civilian casualties and severe travel disruptions.

It warned that hostilities could escalate rapidly beyond the immediate area. It also said terrorist attacks in the UAE could occur with little or no warning and could target tourist locations, transportation hubs and other public sites.

Restrictions and advice for travelers

US government employees working in the UAE require special authorization to travel to military bases and critical energy infrastructure sites because of UAE government restrictions and potential security risks. Additional staffing changes may be imposed as security conditions evolve.

The advisory also urged travelers to check Federal Aviation Administration restrictions before departure, citing risks to civil aviation in or near the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman, including the UAE.

Residents and visitors were cautioned about strict UAE rules covering social behavior, drugs, traffic violations, financial crimes and recording people or sensitive sites. Violations can lead to arrest, fines or an exit ban.

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