US Travel Advisory: Americans in UAE, Saudi Arabia Asked to Consider Commercial Departure

The United States has urged its citizens in the Gulf region to consider leaving using commercial flights as tensions linked to the ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran continue to ripple across West Asia.

In an updated travel advisory issued on Monday, the U.S. Department of State said it is closely monitoring the evolving security situation and warned that while flights remain available, sudden disruptions could occur.

The advisory comes as regional security concerns intensify, with missile and drone threats affecting air traffic across parts of the Gulf.

Are Commercial Flights Still Operating from the UAE?

According to the advisory, commercial travel options remain available from the United Arab Emirates, particularly from Dubai International Airport and Abu Dhabi International Airport.

“Seats on commercial flights from Abu Dhabi and Dubai are available now for travel to multiple U.S. and European cities, although some flights may be cancelled with little notice. Borders with Oman and Saudi Arabia have been open, and commercial flights from those countries are operating,” the advisory read.

Authorities, however, cautioned travellers to stay alert as flight schedules could change quickly.

“Some flights may be cancelled with little notice,” the advisory said.

Officials added that Washington is keeping a close watch on developments across the region.

“We are monitoring the situation in the Middle East closely and will keep you updated so you can make decisions about your safety,” the advisory stated.

The notice also emphasised the administration’s priority on citizen safety, saying, “**Donald Trump, Marco Rubio, and the Department of State have no higher priority than the safety and security of American citizens.”

What Is the Situation in Saudi Arabia?

Separately, the U.S. Embassy in Saudi Arabia updated its “options to depart” guidance, urging Americans in the Saudi Arabia to leave using commercial flights if it is safe to do so.

The embassy confirmed that Saudi airspace remains open but warned of frequent air traffic restrictions due to missile and drone threats.

Major airports, including King Khalid International Airport, King Abdulaziz International Airport, and King Fahd International Airport, remain operational.

Travellers were advised to check directly with airlines because of possible delays and cancellations.

Why Are US Officials Urging Precautions?

The embassy also instructed US government personnel in Saudi Arabia to take additional safety precautions.

“To the extent possible, remain in your residence or another structure, and stay away from windows,” the advisory said.

For those who decide not to leave, authorities recommended preparing for an extended stay indoors.

Those remaining in the country should be ready to “shelter in place in a secure location with adequate supplies of food, water, medicines, and other essential items.”

The guidance follows an earlier decision by the U.S. Department of State on March 8 to order the departure of non-emergency government staff from Saudi Arabia due to sustained missile and drone threats targeting American interests.

What Recent Incident Disrupted Flights in Dubai?

Earlier on Monday, operations at Dubai International Airport were briefly disrupted after a drone-related incident near the airport.

Authorities said flights were temporarily suspended while emergency services responded. Officials later confirmed that the fire had been contained and the situation brought under control.

The developments come amid continuing tensions tied to the conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, which have heightened security concerns across the Gulf.

(With inputs from ANI)