The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a travel advisory for UAE citizens following the escalating tensions in the Middle East. The advisory highlights the importance of staying updated on the situation, especially for Emiratis, residents, and visitors in the region.

In a social media post, the ministry urged Emiratis in Jordan, Iraq, Lebanon, Syria, Iran, and Israel to register with the Twajudi service. This government initiative is designed to support nationals abroad and assist in coordinating repatriation during emergencies or crises.

Tensions in the region escalated sharply on Friday, following Israel’s series of strikes on Iran that resulted in the deaths of senior military officials and attacks on nuclear facilities. In response, Iran initiated retaliatory missile attacks on Israel that continued into Saturday morning. As the situation worsened, Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport was closed, leading to the cancellation of flights by the UAE’s Etihad Airways to and from Tel Aviv. An Etihad duty media officer stated that the airline was experiencing disruptions due to airspace closures and the ongoing regional situation.

Travellers transiting through Abu Dhabi to connect to cancelled flights will not be accepted for travel from their point of origin. Etihad Airways mentioned that the situation is developing, which is likely to lead to further disruptions and delays in the coming days. The airline is closely monitoring airspace and security updates in collaboration with relevant authorities.

In addition, Dubai-based Emirates also cancelled flights to and from Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, and Iran. Other major airlines, including Lufthansa and Air India, were compelled to divert aircraft mid-flight on Friday due to the escalating conflict.