U.S. keeps UAE travel advisory at Level 3 after 23 October update

The U.S. Department of State updated its travel advisory for the United Arab Emirates on 23 October 2026, leaving the warning level unchanged at Level 3: Reconsider Travel. The advisory continues to cite terrorism and armed conflict as the reasons for the warning.

According to the U.S. Mission in the UAE, the advisory summary was refreshed to reflect an increase in potential armed attacks by the Iranian-supported Houthis, as well as Iranian efforts to target U.S. government officials in the region.

Key facts

• Updated: 23 October 2026
• Level: Level 3 — Reconsider Travel
• Stated reasons: terrorism and armed conflict
• What changed: advisory summary only; the level and risk indicators are unchanged
• Who issued it: the U.S. Department of State

What prompted the update?

The wording now points to a rise in potential armed attacks by the Iranian-supported Houthis and to Iranian efforts to target U.S. government officials in the region. The advisory level itself was not raised or lowered, and the risk indicators stayed the same.

What risks does the advisory describe?

Under armed conflict, the advisory notes that Iranian-supported Houthis have carried out hostilities against Saudi Arabia, including attacks on civilian airports and other critical infrastructure that caused civilian casualties and severe travel disruptions. It adds that these hostilities could escalate rapidly beyond that immediate area.

On terrorism, the advisory warns of a risk of terrorist violence in the UAE, including attacks with little or no warning. Possible targets listed include tourist locations, transportation hubs, shopping areas, government facilities and places of worship, and in particular locations associated with the Jewish and Israeli communities.

What does the advisory say about flights and local laws?

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) or a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) covering risks to civil aviation operating within or near the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman region, including the UAE.

The advisory also reminds residents and visitors that the UAE has strict rules on social behaviour, drug possession, traffic violations, financial crimes and video recording of officials, members of the public, infrastructure or military activity. Breaking these rules can result in arrest, fines or an exit ban.

What restrictions apply to U.S. government employees?

U.S. government employees working in the UAE need special authorisation to travel to military bases and critical energy infrastructure sites, owing to UAE government restrictions and potential security risks. Further staffing posture adjustments may be imposed on U.S. personnel under Chief of Mission security responsibility as security issues evolve.

What should travellers do?

The advisory recommends enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for updates and alerts, monitoring local media and being ready to change plans, and having a departure plan for an emergency that does not depend on U.S. government help. It also urges travellers to check current travel health information and to consider buying travel insurance covering evacuation assistance, medical care and trip cancellation before travelling.

No further changes or review dates have been announced in the advisory.