Update on the Situation in the Middle East
An advice page for those currently in the Middle East.
Hundreds of thousands of British nationals live or are currently on holiday in the Middle East. Iran’s reckless attacks pose significant risks to our military bases and British service personnel. British nationals are currently taking shelter in their hotels, holiday resorts and homes, and our regional allies.
We were not involved with the strikes on Iran, as we believe that the best way forward for the region and the world is a negotiated settlement in which Iran agrees to give up any aspirations to develop a nuclear weapon. But Iran’s strikes are posing a threat to British nationals and our regional allies regardless – and those partners in the Gulf have asked us to do more to defend them.
If you are in an affected country, you should follow the below practical advice:
Sign up to FCDO Travel Advice email alerts for the relevant country. British nationals requiring consular support should call the 24/7 phone line on 44 20 7008 5000.
Those in the region should use the “Register your Presence” service if they are in Bahrain, Israel, Kuwait, Palestine, Qatar, and UAE. Registration helps the FCDO understand individuals and nationals are in the region, what tailored support may be required for vulnerable individuals, and ensure that those who wish to can receive communications and updates.
Individuals must follow advice from the local authorities and sign up to receive information and alerts, including where it is recommended to shelter in place. If you are advised to take shelter, stay indoors or find the nearest safe building or designated shelter. An interior stairwell or a room with as few external walls or windows as possible may provide additional protection.
Read https://www.gov.uk/guidance/how-to-deal-with-a-crisis-overseas. This includes guidance on ‘how to prepare for a crisis’ with suggestions on what you might include in your emergency supplies and ‘what to do in a crisis’. You can also read the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority’s guidance across numerous emergencies: https://www.ncema.gov.ae/.
The FCDO will be working tirelessly to ensure British national can return home swiftly and safely.
We are also sending Rapid Deployment Teams to key locations in the region to support our British nationals on the ground and we are in close contact with the travel industry and Governments in the region on looking at all options to support British nationals
Information correct as of 11/03/2026.
