UAE Urges Travelers to Prioritize Safety Measures

UAE Issues Warning to Travelers – Choose Reliable Providers

In a recently issued travel warning, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs encourages citizens and residents of the Emirates to use reliable, vetted service providers when traveling abroad. The warning follows a tragic incident in which a tourist bus accident in Turkey claimed the lives of two Emirati citizens.

The UAE is one of the most important international transport hubs, so its residents frequently travel worldwide for business or tourism purposes. The ministry emphasizes the fundamental importance for travelers to be familiar with the laws, transport, and safety regulations of the destination country.

The ministry offers five key recommendations for travelers:

1. Knowledge of local laws – Visitors should be familiar with the laws of the country they are visiting, as well as its transportation regulations, and must fully comply with them.

2. Checking weather and road conditions – It is advised to be informed about the expected weather and transportation conditions both before departure and during the trip.

3. Caution in road transportation – Those driving abroad should be especially careful, as they often operate in unfamiliar terrain and under different rules.

4. Prefer air travel – According to the ministry, air travel is a safer and more comfortable alternative compared to long road journeys.

5. Verification of providers – It is recommended to contract only with reliable, reputable travel agencies, tour operators, and car rental companies.

UAE citizens can contact a 24-hour helpline (+971 800 24) for assistance in emergencies.

The tragic Turkish incident

The accident took place in one of the districts of Trabzon Province, Turkey, when a tourist bus plunged into a river bed. The vehicle was carrying six people, including five Emirati tourists. Two lost their lives, and the others were injured. The injured, including three other Emirati citizens and the bus driver, were airlifted to the hospital. Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident.

This case highlights that neglecting safety considerations during foreign trips can lead to serious consequences. The ministry emphasizes the necessity of proper preparation and choosing reliable service providers to ensure travelers' safety.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the UAE (MoFA) statement.)