This message contains updates to the mission operations and actions to take sections below. There are no changes to other sections.
We are monitoring the situation in the Middle East closely and will keep you updated so you can make decisions about your safety. If you want to leave the Middle East, the U.S. government is ready to assist by providing you the latest information about the departure options available. President Trump, Secretary of State Rubio, and the Department of State have no higher priority than the safety and security of American citizens. New or updated information below is indicated in bold.
In addition to commercial departure options, the Department is coordinating transportation out of the region and can provide assistance flights to Americans who have completed the crisis intake form as space becomes available.
If you have already completed the crisis intake form https://mytravel.state.gov/s/crisis-intake , please do not fill it out again. You can reply to the most recent email from our crisis case management system to update your case with your current plans and location so that we can send you the best departure information for your location.
If you choose to not take advantage of available departure options, including commercial options, you should be prepared to shelter in place in a secure location within your residence or another safe building. Have a supply of food, water, medications, and other essential items. We urge all Americans to remain vigilant, follow local authorities’ instructions, and review the latest guidance from the U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
Options to Depart
- U.S. government-coordinated flights: The Department of State began operating assistance flights to various destinations in Europe from Abu Dhabi and Dubai on March 4, 2026. Travelers are responsible for their own onward travel and accommodation. Those who have expressed interest in flight assistance on the crisis intake form are being contacted on a rolling basis as flights become available.
- Commercial Flights: An increasing number of commercial flights are operating out of international airports in the UAE. 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. Visit airline websites for up-to-the-minute availability. Passengers are advised not to travel to the airport unless they hold a confirmed ticket and have been advised by their airline to do so. Access to some airports is restricted to confirmed travelers only.
- Overland Routes: Borders with Oman and Saudi Arabia have been open, and commercial flights from those countries are operating. However, there are reports of congestion at border crossings, and both Oman and Saudi Arabia continue to enforce visa requirements.
Shelter in Place
- The U.S. Mission to the UAE has directed all U.S. government employees to shelter in place. We recommend all Americans in the UAE do the same until further notice. To the extent possible, remain in your residence, hotel, or another structure, and stay away from windows.
Mission Operations
- The U.S. Embassy in Abu Dhabi and U.S. Consulate in Dubai have suspended all routine consular services. Do not approach the embassy or consulate for any reason. We will continue to assist you wherever you may be located across the Middle East. Our 24/7 Task Force provides around-the-clock information and assistance. (See contact information below.)
- For Americans who do not have a valid U.S. passport, limited emergency passport services are being made available. To request emergency passport services, email ACSAbuDhabi@state.gov if you are in Abu Dhabi or DubaiACS@state.gov if you are in Dubai, and our consular teams will contact you with more details.
- For U.S. passports currently in our possession, we are distributing them as security conditions permit. You will be contacted with instructions for picking up your passport when it is available.
- For new U.S. passports that were in transit and have now arrived, we are making them available as security conditions permit. We will contact you when yours is available.
- All foreign passports awaiting visas have been returned to VFS offices in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, and applicants should coordinate directly with VFS to arrange for passport return using one of the contact options here: https://www.ustraveldocs.com/ae/en/contact-us .
Actions to Take
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive safety and security updates from the U.S. Embassy.
- UAE authorities continue to warn that publishing or circulating “rumors, false news, or news from unknown sources through social media platforms or other information technology” is a violation of UAE law and could expose users to prosecution. Additionally, taking or resharing footage of drone and missile incidents is illegal in the UAE and could results in prosecution, fines, and/or jail time.
- Maintain communication with family and friends to inform them of your status.
- Have travel documents up to date and easily accessible.
- Find a secure location within your residence or another safe building. Have a supply of food, water, medications, and other essential items.
- In case of an attack, stay away from any debris, and monitor news outlets for official guidance.
- Keep a low profile and stay aware of your surroundings.
- Pay close attention to communications from local officials.
- Follow the “U.S. Department of State – Security Updates for U.S. Citizens” channel on WhatsApp. Download WhatsApp at whatsapp.com/download .
- Keep your cell phone charged and pre-programmed with the following emergency numbers.
- Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams .
- Be careful of anyone asking for money. If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help .
Assistance
- Dial 999 for emergency services in UAE.
- Please complete this form so the Department of State can better assist you and provide you with timely updates: https://mytravel.state.gov/s/crisis-intake .
- U.S. Department of State 24/7 Task Force: call +1-202-501-4444 from abroad or +1-888-407-4747 when calling from the U.S. and Canada.
