UAE Issues Urgent Alert Amid Israel-Iran Tensions

Travel Alert from UAE Amid Israel-Iran Tension

The tension of the Israel-Iran conflict in mid-June 2025 has reached another wave in the Middle East. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the United Arab Emirates recently issued an important warning to its citizens, residents, and visitors in the country about expected changes in air traffic and the security situation.

1. Air Travel Situation and Expected Effects

The conflict took a dramatic turn on June 13-14 when Israel launched targeted airstrikes on Iranian nuclear and military facilities, prompting Iran to fire dozens of missiles and drones at Israel. As a result, airspaces over several countries, including Iran, Israel, Jordan, Iraq, and Syria, were partially or entirely closed, causing significant flight disruptions.

This situation immediately impacted UAE airlines: Emirates, Etihad, flydubai, Wizz Air Abu Dhabi, and Air Arabia resorted to a series of flight cancellations and route diversions. Flights were canceled, rebookings were offered, and some routes were just reinstated or further modified.

2. Instructions from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Practical Steps

The MoFA warning can be summarized in four main points:

1. Check Flight Information

Direct contact with airlines and regular monitoring of current schedules is recommended.

2. Twajudi Registration

All Emiratis staying in Jordan, Iraq, Lebanon, Syria, Iran, or Israel are asked to register with the Twajudi online system. This aids in consular notifications and the coordination of emergency actions.

3. Emergency Contact

In crisis situations, the following number can be called: 0097 180 024.

4. Reliable Communication

The services aim to ensure continued consular information and support for Emiratis both within and outside the borders.

3. What Does This Mean for Travelers?

The possibility of flight cancellations and delays: travelers should anticipate unexpected schedule changes that could lead to up to two-day delays.

Route Changes: alternative travel via different airspaces may be possible.

Financial Implications: companies generally provide alternative routes or refunds.

Safety Notifications: Twajudi and consular contacts are crucial for assistance in emergencies.

4. Practical Advice for Travelers

Be prepared for alternative routes if the airspace of their destinations is closed.

Check airline information before booking.

Register with Twajudi if staying in affected countries.

Save the consular emergency contact number.

Stay updated on changes from both the MoFA and airline websites.

Summary

The Middle East aviation situation is increasingly unstable, thus the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs proactively supports its citizens and residents with consular services, a registration system, an emergency hotline, and constant flight information confirmations. Following these during travel is not only recommended but essential for safe transportation.

(Source of the article: Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) statement.)