Turkey Joins Saudi Arabia, Egypt, UAE, Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, And More Countries In Middle East As UK Issues Urgent Travel Advisory Amid Regional Turmoil, Border Threats, And Exit Fee Hikes

Published on December 18, 2025

Turkey Joins Saudi Arabia, Egypt, UAE, Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, and More Countries in the Middle East as UK Issues Urgent Travel Advisory Amid Regional Turmoil, Border Threats, and Exit Fee Hikes due to rising security risks, escalating political instability, and growing concerns over terrorism across the region. As tensions increase in several Middle Eastern countries, the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has issued a heightened travel advisory for British nationals, urging caution when traveling to these areas. With border closures, ongoing conflicts, and rising exit fees, these travel warnings reflect the growing volatility in the region. From potential terrorist attacks to unpredictable political protests, the situation in the Middle East has become more challenging for international travelers. In response to these threats, the UK government has advised its citizens to reconsider travel to specific areas and closely monitor security updates before making any travel plans.

As tensions rise across the Middle East, the UK government has intensified its warnings for travelers heading to the region, particularly for countries like Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, UAE, Bahrain, Jordan, and Kuwait. Heightened security concerns, including the risk of terrorism, civil unrest, and the potential for sudden border closures, have prompted the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) to issue urgent advisories. In addition to the growing threats on the ground, travelers are also facing rising exit fees and restrictions on movement, further complicating travel plans. With political volatility and the threat of indiscriminate attacks in public spaces, British nationals are urged to remain vigilant and reconsider their travel arrangements. The FCDO’s guidance highlights the importance of staying informed, avoiding high-risk areas, and having adequate travel insurance to cover potential disruptions. As these countries navigate regional turmoil, foreign nationals must be cautious and prepared for unforeseen circumstances that may arise during their travels.

The United Kingdom has issued an urgent travel advisory for British nationals planning to visit the Middle East, particularly advising caution in several countries currently experiencing regional instability, border threats, and increased exit fees. With escalating tensions in the region, the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has heightened its warnings, urging travelers to reconsider trips to countries affected by both ongoing conflicts and mounting security risks. In this comprehensive report, we explore the travel advisories for each of the affected countries in the region, starting with Turkey and covering Saudi Arabia, Egypt, UAE, Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, and others.

Turkey: Urgent Travel Advisory Amid Border Instability and Regional Tensions

Turkey has been a key focus of the UK’s travel warning, with the FCDO advising against travel to specific areas due to the ongoing border instability and regional unrest. The UK government has highlighted the rising threat of terrorism, particularly in the southeastern parts of the country, which are close to the Syrian border. The risk of indiscriminate attacks in public spaces, such as tourist sites, airports, and shopping centers, has been a significant concern.

The conflict in neighboring Syria, alongside growing political tensions within Turkey, has exacerbated the situation, making some regions particularly hazardous for travelers. The government has cautioned against visiting cities like Gaziantep and areas near the Syrian border, where the threat of violence and terrorist attacks remains high. Additionally, the rise in border conflicts has led to delays and restrictions at key crossings, making travel to Turkey increasingly unpredictable. Travelers are advised to stay updated on local news and follow security protocols closely.

Saudi Arabia: Border Disputes and Heightened Terrorist Threats Spark Warnings

Saudi Arabia is another country facing increased scrutiny under the UK’s travel advisory. With its proximity to ongoing conflicts in Yemen, there are growing concerns over potential cross-border attacks and regional instability. The FCDO has specifically advised against travel within 10 kilometers of the border with Yemen and has cautioned travelers about heightened terrorist activity throughout the country.

Terrorist attacks targeting both security forces and foreign nationals have been reported, particularly in areas like Riyadh and the Eastern Province. Public spaces, including shopping malls, restaurants, and hotels, have been identified as potential targets. Although Saudi Arabia’s authorities have a significant security presence, the threat of indiscriminate attacks remains high, particularly in the wake of the conflict with Houthi rebels in Yemen.

The country’s complex political landscape, coupled with rising tensions in neighboring regions, has prompted the UK government to issue a strong advisory. Travelers are advised to exercise extreme caution, avoid large public gatherings, and be aware of their surroundings at all times.

Egypt: Ongoing Terrorism Threats and Border Closures Prompt UK Alert

Egypt is currently under a strict travel advisory by the UK, with the FCDO advising against travel to several regions due to terrorism threats and heightened security risks. The Sinai Peninsula remains a particular area of concern, with ongoing attacks by extremist groups targeting both local security forces and foreign nationals.

In addition to terrorism risks, the FCDO has highlighted instability in the border areas, particularly near Libya and Sudan. The Egypt-Libya border and the northern parts of the Sinai Peninsula have been identified as high-risk zones due to both the presence of militant groups and the ongoing geopolitical tensions in the region. As part of the advisory, travelers are also warned about the potential for sudden border closures, particularly at crossings between Egypt and Israel.

The UK government has urged travelers to reconsider trips to Egypt and closely monitor local news for updates on the security situation. While popular tourist destinations like Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan remain relatively safe, visitors are strongly advised to avoid remote and volatile areas.

United Arab Emirates (UAE): Growing Terrorist Threats and Regional Instability Raise Concerns

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has also come under the UK’s travel advisory, largely due to growing concerns about regional instability and terrorism threats. While the UAE is generally considered safe for tourists, the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, coupled with the country’s proximity to areas of political unrest, has increased security risks.

The FCDO has warned against travel to areas where Western interests are concentrated, including certain parts of Dubai and Abu Dhabi, where the risk of terrorist attacks is elevated. Recent threats from extremist groups targeting the UAE, as well as potential political demonstrations sparked by regional tensions, have made it more important than ever for travelers to exercise caution.

Additionally, rising anti-Western sentiments and growing calls for boycotts of Western businesses have created an atmosphere of uncertainty, especially in locations with strong ties to Israeli or Jewish communities. The UK government has advised against visits to such places during this time of heightened political tensions.

Bahrain: Protests, Terrorism Threats, and Travel Risks Prompt Urgent Advisory

Bahrain is another country affected by the UK’s travel warning, with the FCDO advising against travel in certain areas due to escalating protests and terrorism risks. Political demonstrations have become increasingly frequent, especially around major urban centers like Manama. While most protests are peaceful, they can turn confrontational quickly, especially during significant political anniversaries or when tensions flare up in neighboring countries.

The terrorism threat in Bahrain remains high, with extremist groups targeting government buildings, security forces, and foreign interests. The FCDO has noted that Bahrain’s government has a heavy security presence, but attacks remain possible in crowded public spaces. Travelers are advised to avoid large gatherings and monitor local news closely for developments.

Additionally, the UK government has warned about potential disruptions to travel caused by roadblocks and protests, particularly in areas like Sitra, Karzakan, and Diraz, where demonstrations have frequently taken place. Visitors should be cautious of their movements and follow all local safety instructions.

Jordan: Border Tensions with Syria and Rising Crime Threaten Traveler Safety

Jordan’s travel advisory has been escalated due to rising tensions along its border with Syria and increased risks of terrorism. The FCDO has advised against travel within 3 kilometers of the Jordan-Syria border, where military activity and cross-border tensions have created a volatile situation. Terrorist groups, including Daesh and al-Qaeda affiliates, remain active in the region, posing a threat to security.

While the political situation in Jordan is generally stable, the country has experienced its share of protests and demonstrations, many of which have been related to regional conflicts. Political unrest, particularly in Amman and near foreign embassies, has the potential to escalate quickly, with clashes between protesters and security forces resulting in casualties.

Jordan’s crime rate remains relatively low, but travelers are advised to remain vigilant, especially in crowded places like markets, malls, and tourist sites. The rising threat of pickpocketing and street crime, combined with the uncertainty of regional security, has prompted the UK to issue an urgent travel warning.

Kuwait: Rising Border Tensions and Political Unrest Increase Travel Risks

Kuwait, a country known for its relatively stable political environment, has found itself under the UK’s travel advisory due to rising regional tensions and potential terrorist threats. The FCDO has highlighted that the border areas, especially near Iraq, are high-risk zones where political instability and militant activity could spill over into Kuwait.

The UK government has advised against travel to border regions, including the areas near the Iraq-Kuwait border, where the threat of cross-border terrorism remains high. While the capital city, Kuwait City, remains relatively safe, travelers are encouraged to avoid certain areas and remain aware of political developments, as the situation can change rapidly.

Political unrest in the region, combined with anti-Western sentiments and the potential for protests, has made it essential for travelers to stay informed and follow security advice closely.

As regional turmoil continues to escalate across the Middle East, the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has issued critical travel advisories for several countries in the region. Travelers are urged to exercise extreme caution, stay informed about local developments, and reconsider travel to high-risk areas. While popular destinations like Dubai, Cairo, and Istanbul may still be accessible, certain border regions and politically unstable areas remain off-limits.

Essential Travel Tips for Staying Safe in the Middle East Amid Heightened Security Risks

As tensions rise across the Middle East, British travelers must take extra precautions to ensure their safety. Here are some essential tips for navigating the region’s security landscape:

1. Stay Informed and Monitor Updates: Keep up with the latest travel advisories from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and local news sources. Situations can evolve rapidly, and staying informed is key to making well-timed decisions.
2. Avoid High-Risk Areas: Follow the FCDO’s advice on which areas are off-limits or where travel should be minimized. Border regions, protest hotspots, and areas with known terrorist activity should be avoided at all costs.
3. Register with Your Embassy: If you are traveling to or within the Middle East, register your trip with the British Embassy in your destination country. This ensures that authorities can reach you in case of emergencies or evacuation.
4. Have Travel Insurance: Make sure your travel insurance covers emergency evacuations, medical treatment, and cancellations. It’s essential, especially when traveling to regions with heightened risks.
5. Be Discreet and Respect Local Customs: Always be mindful of local traditions, customs, and laws. Avoid engaging in political discussions or posting on social media about sensitive topics.

By taking these proactive steps, travelers can help minimize risks and have a safer journey in the region.

The growing threat of terrorism, combined with increasing border restrictions, political unrest, and rising exit fees, has made travel to these countries more challenging. As tensions continue to rise across the region, travelers are encouraged to stay vigilant, respect local customs and laws, and ensure they have adequate travel insurance before embarking on any trips.

Turkey Joins Saudi Arabia, Egypt, UAE, Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, and More Countries in the Middle East as UK Issues Urgent Travel Advisory Amid Regional Turmoil, Border Threats, and Exit Fee Hikes due to escalating security risks, political instability, and the growing threat of terrorism across the region. The UK government has raised its travel alerts to protect citizens from the increasing dangers, including border disruptions and rising travel costs.

For those planning to visit the Middle East, it’s crucial to stay up-to-date with the latest travel advisories and adjust plans accordingly to avoid unnecessary risks.