Event: Potential Aerial Threats in the UAE
On May 4, 2026, the UAE Ministry of Interior issued several public alerts via mobile phone that warned of potential aerial threats. The U.S. Mission to the UAE is monitoring the situation and urges Americans to please follow instructions from UAE authorities and be prepared to take shelter if instructed. Our travel advisory for the UAE remains at Level 3: Reconsider Travel.
The U.S. Embassy and Consulate General remain open but on ordered-departure status, meaning that non-emergency U.S. government personnel have been relocated outside the UAE. For Americans who require passport or other consular services, contact us through our U.S. Citizen Services Navigator at https://ae.usembassy.gov/services/. Routine U.S. visa services in the UAE remain suspended.
Actions to Take:
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates from the U.S. Embassy and Consulate General.
- Carefully review our Travel Advisory for the UAE .
- If an aerial attack occurs, stay away from glass doors, windows, and any fallen debris, and monitor your phone and news outlets for official guidance.
- Keep a supply of food, water, medications, and other essential items in case it is necessary to shelter for a prolonged period.
- Keep family and friends informed of your whereabouts and well-being.
- Have travel documents up to date and easily accessible, and contact us if your U.S. passport is lost or will soon expire.
- Keep a low profile and be aware of your surroundings.
- Pay close attention to communications from local officials.
- Keep your cell phone charged and pre-programmed with the emergency numbers listed below.
Assistance:
- Dial 999 for emergency services in UAE.
- Contact the Embassy in Abu Dhabi or the Consulate General in Dubai by visiting https://ae.usembassy.gov/services/, scrolling down to the “U.S. Citizen Services Navigator,” and clicking on your preferred location.
- U.S. State Department Consular Affairs Call Center: 1-888-407-4747 (in United States or Canada) or 202-501-4444(worldwide).
- U.S. Embassy Abu Dhabi emergency number: +971-2-414-2200
- U.S. Consulate General Dubai emergency number: +971-4-309-4000
