U.S. Mission in UAE Warns Americans of Flight Cancellations and Airspace Closures

The U.S. Mission in the United Arab Emirates issued a security alert on 18 October 2026, telling Americans currently in the Middle East to exercise heightened vigilance because of the region's complex security environment. The alert warns of potential flight cancellations, airspace closures and wider travel disruptions.

Key facts

• Security alert dated 18 October 2026 from the U.S. Mission UAE (embassy in Abu Dhabi and consulate in Dubai)
• Aimed at Americans in the Middle East and those travelling to or from the region
• Travellers should expect possible flight cancellations, airspace closures and travel disruptions
• Flight status can be checked through the airline or the airport websites for Abu Dhabi and Dubai
• Consular assistance is available through the U.S. Citizen Services Navigator

Why is this happening?

The alert says Iranian-supported Houthis have carried out hostilities against Saudi Arabia, including attacks on civilian airports and other critical infrastructure, causing civilian casualties and severe travel disruptions. The U.S. Mission states that these hostilities have the potential to escalate rapidly beyond that immediate area.

The alert also warns that Iran and groups supportive of Iran may target other U.S. interests overseas, or locations associated with the United States and Americans around the world, including U.S. businesses and other institutions.

What should travellers do about flights?

Americans travelling to or from the Middle East are told to monitor information about airport and airline operations and to develop contingency plans in advance. To check a flight's departure status, the alert directs travellers to contact the airline directly or use the airport websites for Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi and Dubai Airports.

How can Americans get consular help?

The alert confirms that consular assistance to Americans is available. U.S. citizens who need passport or other consular services should contact the mission through the U.S. Citizen Services Navigator, select their preferred location, and the consular team will respond by email with instructions.

The mission's website also lists a 24/7 assistance line for Americans who need help: +1-202-501-4444 from abroad and +1-888-407-4747 from the United States and Canada.

What this means for travellers

Anyone flying to, from or through the UAE and the wider Middle East should confirm the departure status of each flight with the airline or the relevant airport before travelling, and should have backup plans ready in case of cancellations or airspace closures. The alert lists enrolling in the Department of State's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) as an action travellers can take.

The mission's website also displays a U.S. Department of State Travel Advisory of Level 3, "Reconsider Travel", for the United Arab Emirates due to terrorism and armed conflict.

No end date is given for the alert. The U.S. Mission advises continued monitoring of airport and airline operations.