A number of missiles and unmanned aerial systems (drones) were launched into the UAE from Yemen in early 2022, targeting infrastructure and high profile locations, some of which were in populated areas. The vast majority of these missiles and drones were intercepted and destroyed but there were a small number of casualties. On 17 January 2022, the UAE authorities confirmed a Houthi attack on civilian facilities in Abu Dhabi, which caused the death of three civilians. On 24 January 2022, the UAE authorities announced that their air defence forces had intercepted and destroyed two Houthi ballistic missiles targeting the UAE and that there were no casualties. On 31 January 2022, the UAE authorities announced their air defence forces had intercepted and destroyed a ballistic missile targeting the UAE and that there were no casualties.

Further attacks are likely. If an incident does occur, you should monitor local media reports and follow the advice of the local authorities. See Safety and Security and Terrorism.

There is a possibility of an increased threat against Western interests, including against UK citizens. You should remain vigilant and keep up to date with the latest developments, including via the media and this travel advice.

It is more important than ever to get travel insurance and check it provides sufficient cover. See the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO)’s guidance on foreign travel insurance.

Around 1.5 million British nationals visit the UAE every year. Most visits are trouble-free.

Terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in the UAE. See Terrorism

If you’re planning to travel with prescribed or over the counter medicines for personal use, you’ll need to meet the UAE’s specific requirements for your medicine to be allowed into the country. See Medication

The UAE is a Muslim country. Laws and customs are very different to those in the UK. You should respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions at all times. There may be serious penalties for doing something that might not be illegal in the UK. See Local laws and customs

You can contact the emergency services by calling 999 (police), 997 (fire) or 998 (ambulance).

If you’re in the UAE and need emergency help from the UK government, contact the British Embassy in Abu Dhabi or the British Embassy in Dubai .

Qatar World Cup 2022

The FIFA World Cup will take place in Qatar from 20 November to 18 December 2022.

If you are travelling to Qatar to attend the World Cup you should check Travel Advice for Qatar and sign up to receive email alerts whenever Travel Advice for Qatar changes. You can also monitor the official Qatar World Cup and FIFA websites for more information.

For up to date information regarding fan zones, accommodation and things to do in Dubai during the World Cup, please see this guide.

You should also read Travel Advice for the UAE in full. Local laws and customs in UAE can vary significantly from those in the UK, including on issues like drugs, alcohol and social media use. Please inform yourself before you travel.

If you are travelling from the UAE to Qatar, you should view the FCDO Qatar World Cup 2022 Travel Advice page. To enter Qatar during the World Cup period you must apply for a Hayya Card. This is a form of Fan ID, which you will need to be able to enter the country during the tournament period. It will also give you access to free public transport on match days.

The majority of shuttle flights to Qatar from Dubai will depart from Dubai World Central Airport. Please check with your carrier to ensure you arrive at the correct airport.

If you are planning to drive from the UAE to Qatar, please be aware of the risks in doing so. You will cross through Saudi Arabia so please refer to Travel Advice for Saudi Arabia. You will not be allowed to drive your vehicle across the border from Saudi Arabia to Qatar, so it will have to remain in Saudi Arabia. Travelling by roadcar from the UAE to Qatar is an arduous drive with limited fuel and rest stops. You will need to be patient and allow plenty of time for your journey. There will be specific procedures in place to enter Qatar through the Abu Samra Border Crossing during the tournament, including restrictions on vehicle entry. See Qatar World Cup 2022 for more information.

Ensure you have appropriate travel insurance, and follow the latest COVID-19 requirements, before travelling to the UAE, and on to Qatar. Check Travel Advice for Qatar for information about Qatar’s current COVID-19 requirements. The Qatari authorities are encouraging anyone travelling to the World Cup to familiarise themselves with these requirements, including on testing, masks and the ‘Ehteraz’ app.

If you’re abroad and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the nearest British embassy, consulate or high commission.