British citizens in various Middle Eastern countries are being advised by UK authorities to stay indoors due to the ongoing Iran conflict. The Foreign Commonwealth Development Office (FCDO) has issued warnings for destinations like Bahrain, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates, which include popular tourist spots such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Iran has been carrying out retaliatory drone and missile attacks across the region, leading to disruptions in places like Dubai. Dubai International Airport, one of the busiest airports globally, briefly closed recently after a drone strike near a fuel depot. Additionally, a Pakistani citizen lost their life in Abu Dhabi due to missile fragments. The FCDO advises against non-essential travel to the UAE, where a significant number of British expatriates reside, as the conflict enters its third week.
Regarding the ‘shelter in place’ recommendation for the UAE, the FCDO instructs: “In case local authorities suggest seeking shelter, it is crucial to remain indoors or move to the nearest secure building immediately. The primary risk comes from falling debris caused by intercepts, and the safest place is inside a sturdy structure. Opt for an interior stairwell or a room with minimal external walls or windows for added safety.
“Limit your movements to essential trips only. When travel is unavoidable, try to move during daylight and steer clear of crowded places. Always inform friends or family about your whereabouts and travel plans, and ensure your mobile phone is charged and with you at all times.
“If you are not at your residence or hotel and an attack occurs or you receive an alert from the official UAE warning system, seek refuge in the nearest building immediately.”
Similar guidance is also applicable to countries like Bahrain and Qatar, where non-essential travel is discouraged by the FCDO.
The FCDO’s ‘shelter in place’ directive for Qatar states: “Adhere to the instructions provided by local authorities. If you receive a warning, hear interception sounds, or are advised to seek shelter, stay indoors or find the closest secure building or designated shelter. A room with minimal external exposure may offer added protection. Stay inside until authorities confirm that it is safe to resume normal activities.
“Announcements from the Qatari Ministry of Interior are available on their social media platforms.
“If you are outdoors, take sensible precautions. Stay vigilant about any developments.” On the other hand, for Bahrain, the FCDO advises: “If you are in the Kingdom, follow the directives of local authorities. In case you are instructed to seek shelter, stay indoors or find the nearest secure building or designated shelter. A room with minimal external exposure may offer added protection. Avoid approaching or touching any drone or missile fragments or unusual objects.
“We recommend British citizens, when possible, to stay indoors and limit movements to essential trips only. Always inform friends or family about your whereabouts and travel plans, and keep your mobile phone charged and with you.”
Concerns of a wider conflict arising from the Iran situation escalated when a drone struck an RAF base in Cyprus, believed to be launched by pro-Iranian groups in Lebanon or Iraq.
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