British tourists visiting the United Arab Emirates face an increased threat of terrorist attacks, the Foreign Office has warned.
Travel advice was amended on Sunday to warn that terrorists are “very likely” to try to carry out attacks in the UAE, which includes Dubai and Abu Dhabi amongst its seven emirates.
“Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreigners,” the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office stated.
While the Israel-Gaza conflict was not mentioned, the FCDO issued an updated assessment over the risk of terrorist attacks happening in the UAE.
“Terrorists continue to issue statements threatening to carry out attacks in the Gulf region,” the updated travel advice notice said.
“These include references to attacks on western interests, including residential compounds, military, oil, transport and aviation interests as well as crowded places, including restaurants, hotels, beaches, shopping centres and mosques.
“You should maintain a high level of security awareness, particularly in public places and at public events.”
The FCDO reiterated concern over a high threat of terrorist attacks globally “affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets.”
Travellers were urged to remain vigilant at all times, with similar travel advice issued for Kuwait.
Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthi group attacked Abu Dhabi with missiles and drones killing three civilians in January 2022.