UAE bans travel to Iran, Lebanon and Iraq

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the United Arab Emirates has imposed a strict travel ban on its citizens to Iran, Lebanon and Iraq, citing security concerns amid ongoing instability in the region.

In a statement issued Thursday evening (April 30), the ministry said the decision was taken “in light of the current situation in the region” to ensure the safety of Emirati nationals.

The advisory, shared on the social media platform X, said the restriction would remain in force until further notice.

The ministry also urged citizens currently in the three countries to return to the United Arab Emirates immediately.

It added that a dedicated emergency hotline has been activated to provide assistance and ensure the safety of nationals abroad.

The move comes despite recent developments indicating tentative de-escalation in the region. On April 8, a ceasefire agreement was reached following 40 days of conflict involving Iran, the United States and Israel.

Separately, another ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon took effect around midnight on April 16–17.

Authorities, however, signaled that the security environment remains volatile, prompting precautionary measures to safeguard citizens.

Source: Xinhua