Travel warnings have multiplied across the Middle East as tensions between the United States and Iran continue to escalate, with nuclear negotiations in Geneva unfolding against the backdrop of significant US military deployments and fears of broader conflict. Governments are increasingly urging citizens to leave Iran and parts of the wider region or to defer travel altogether, while airlines adjust routes and services in response to shifting risk assessments.
Middle East travel advisories and warnings
The following travel advisories and warnings are in place as of Thursday, February 26.
- Australia: The Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has advised Australians to consider leaving Israel and Lebanon, and offered voluntary departure arrangements for families of diplomatic staff in Israel, Lebanon, the UAE, Qatar, and Jordan amid what they deem to be a “deteriorating security situation.”
- United Kingdom: The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office has updated its travel advice for Lebanon, stating that it advises against all travel to parts of the country due to safety and security concerns. The guidance highlights risks linked to ongoing regional tensions and the potential for sudden deterioration in the security environment.
- Canada: Global Affairs Canada has advised Canadians to avoid all non-essential travel to Lebanon, citing ongoing tensions, unpredictable security conditions, the risk of terrorist attacks and civil unrest, as well as the possibility of violence in several regions, including areas in the south and north of the country.
- India: On February 23, the Indian Embassy in Tehran issued an advisory urging all Indian nationals in Iran to leave by available means of transport, including commercial flights, citing escalating tensions in the region.
- United States: The US State Department has ordered the departure of non-essential staff and eligible family members from the US embassy in Beirut, a precaution tied explicitly to rising Iran-related tensions.
- Serbia: Serbian authorities have told its nationals in Iran to leave as soon as possible due to elevated security risks and the possibility that conditions could deteriorate further.
- Poland: Poland’s Prime Minister Donald Tusk publicly advised Polish citizens to leave Iran immediately amid the growing regional risk environment.
- Sweden: The Swedish Ministry of Foreign Affairs has maintained a warning for Swedish citizens to avoid all travel to Iran and leave immediately. Swedish officials also warned that government evacuation support may be limited for those who choose to stay.
- Cyprus: Cyprus has advised all citizens to avoid all travel to Iran and leave immediately. This advisory has been active since mid-January and remains in place as of late February.
- Singapore: The Singapore Ministry of Foreign Affairs continues to recommend that citizens defer all travel to Iran, emphasizing caution in light of the uncertain security climate.
- Brazil: Brazil recommended that its citizens leave Iran, reflecting concerns about escalating threats. This advisory followed earlier guidance for its citizens to evacuate Lebanon earlier this year.
What travelers need to know
Despite the increase in travel warnings and precautionary advisories, much of the Middle East continues to operate as normal, with airports open, hotels functioning, and commercial flights running across major hubs including the UAE, Qatar, and Jordan. Advisories are often issued out of an abundance of caution and do not necessarily reflect widespread disruption on the ground. Travelers with upcoming plans should monitor official government travel advice pages regularly, stay in contact with airlines for any schedule changes, and allow extra flexibility in itineraries where possible. Comprehensive travel insurance that covers cancellations, delays and unforeseen disruptions is also advisable, particularly given the potential for sudden airspace closures or route adjustments. Staying informed and prepared—rather than alarmed—remains the most practical approach.
This article was originally published on Condé Nast Traveller Middle East.
