Dubai and Abu Dhabi Travel Advice Unchanged After Houthi Strikes

British travellers heading to Dubai and Abu Dhabi are being urged to watch regional developments after Houthi missile and drone attacks on Riyadh on 19 September, when flames and smoke were seen near the Saudi capital’s main airport. The UK Foreign Office has not reinstated restrictions on travel to the UAE, but its current advice warns of possible flight cancellations, airspace closures and further escalation across the Middle East.

The latest escalation is centred on Saudi Arabia rather than the UAE. Saudi authorities intercepted a missile aimed at Riyadh, while the Houthis said they had targeted several sites in the capital. FCDO guidance for the UAE tells British nationals to be prepared for possible flight disruption, avoid security and military facilities, follow local authorities and stay indoors or find a secure building if instructed to shelter.

Before Booking a UAE Trip

• Travel advice: FCDO does not currently advise against travel to the UAE, but warns that regional tensions could still disrupt flights or airspace.
• Dubai flights: Emirates continues direct Heathrow services. British Airways is scheduled to resume Dubai flights on 3 November, while Virgin Atlantic plans to return in winter 2027.

• Abu Dhabi flights: Etihad is selling direct services from London and Manchester. British Airways is not expected to resume Abu Dhabi flights until winter 2027–28.
• Insurance: check whether your policy covers cancellations, security-related disruption and airspace closures before booking.

Travel insurance does not automatically cover a cancellation simply because regional tensions increase. If the FCDO does not advise against travel and a flight or package still operates, cancelling by choice can mean normal cancellation terms apply. If a UK-covered flight is cancelled, passengers can choose a refund or rerouting; the CAA says another airline may be required where it can reach the destination significantly sooner.

Anyone booking the UAE now should separate conditions inside the Emirates from risks affecting the wider region and its airspace. Check the FCDO UAE page again before departure and subscribe to its email alerts. Also check any country used for a connection, because its warning level or airspace situation may differ. Airline schedules can change faster than formal travel advice, particularly during a renewed regional escalation.