Key Points
- Americans urged to shelter in secure locations.
- Limited commercial flights continue; overland routes to Oman, Saudi Arabia open.
- US Embassy in Abu Dhabi, Consulate in Dubai suspend routine services.
- Scam alerts issued amid security situation.
ISLAMABAD: The US Mission to the United Arab Emirates has issued a security alert warning American citizens about reports of incoming missile and drone attacks in the country.
The advisory, issued on Thursday, emphasises that President Trump, Secretary of State Rubio, and the Department of State prioritise the safety of US citizens in the region.
“Americans in the UAE are advised to reconsider travel (Level 3 advisory) and be prepared to shelter in secure locations within their homes or other safe buildings whenever an attack is reported.” – US security alert
“Americans in the UAE are advised to reconsider travel (Level 3 advisory) and be prepared to shelter in secure locations within their homes or other safe buildings whenever an attack is reported.”
The advisory added that the American in the UAE should maintain essential supplies such as food, water, and medications, and remain vigilant to alerts from local authorities and US diplomatic missions.
Options to depart UAE
The security alert stated that the international airports in the UAE are operating on a limited schedule, with some flights cancelled.
“Americans are advised to check airline websites for real-time availability. Alternative carriers include UAE national airlines such as Etihad, Emirates, Flydubai, and Air Arabia. Access to airports may be restricted to confirmed travellers only, and operations may be affected by the security situation.” – US security alert
“Americans are advised to check airline websites for real-time availability. Alternative carriers include UAE national airlines such as Etihad, Emirates, Flydubai, and Air Arabia. Access to airports may be restricted to confirmed travellers only, and operations may be affected by the security situation.”
It added that borders with Oman and Saudi Arabia remain open, with commercial flights from these countries functioning. Travellers should note that visa requirements are enforced and congestion at border crossings has been reported.
About legal restrictions, the advisory said that the system is operating normally, including exit bans. Travellers subject to such bans will not be permitted to leave and can check their status via the Dubai Police app or website. Assistance from UAE-based lawyers is available for legal issues.
Temporary shelter and safety measures
US government employees in the UAE were instructed to shelter in place during missile or drone alerts, taking cover away from windows and staying until an all-clear notification is received.
“American citizens are encouraged to follow the same guidance. The UAE operates a public safety alert system for incoming attacks, though it may not activate for all incidents.”
The advisory also warned US citizens to be alert for scams exploiting the security situation, and to follow Department of State guidance to protect themselves from fraud.
Embassy and consulate operations
The advisory stated that routine consular services at the US Embassy in Abu Dhabi and US Consulate General in Dubai are suspended. “Americans without valid passports may request limited services via the US Citizen Services Navigator.
Passports currently held by consular offices will be distributed as security conditions permit. Immigrant and non-immigrant visa services remain unavailable until further notice, it added.
Actions recommended
- Enrol in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for updates.
- Monitor official travel advisories, especially locations linked to the US, Israel, or Jewish communities.
- Avoid recording or sharing footage of incidents; doing so is illegal under UAE law.
- Keep family and friends informed about your status.
- Prepare a safe location and maintain essential supplies.
- Follow official communications via UAE authorities and U.S. Embassy channels, including WhatsApp.
- Keep your phone charged and pre-programmed with emergency numbers.
