As regional tensions escalate, the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has issued urgent updates for British travelers to Greece and Cyprus, as well as other popular Mediterranean and Middle Eastern destinations.
Travel advice for Greece and Cyprus
In Greece, the situation currently remains stable. According to the latest guidance, “there are currently no FCDO travel warnings in place” for the country. This provides some relief for tourists heading to the mainland and islands, although officials continue to monitor the broader regional impact.
For those traveling to Cyprus, advice is more cautious following a “suspected drone impact at RAF Akrotiri on March 2.” While no “do not travel” warning has been issued for the Republic of Cyprus, including vacation hotspots like Larnaca and Paphos, the FCDO urges British nationals to follow instructions from local authorities. Specifically, “British nationals in the Sovereign Base Areas should follow instructions from the Sovereign Base Areas Administration.”
Turkey and the Middle East
The situation becomes significantly more restrictive further east. In Turkey, while most of the country is considered “safe,” the FCDO strictly “advises against all travel to within 10 km [6 mi] of the border with Syria due to fighting and a heightened risk of terrorism.”
The most severe warnings are reserved for the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The FCDO now “advises against all but essential travel to the entire UAE” due to increased missile activity. For those already in the country, the advice is clear: “If local authorities advise you to take shelter, stay indoors or move to the nearest safe building immediately.” The guidance warns that the “greatest risk is from falling debris caused by intercepts.”
Travelers are reminded that “travel insurance could be invalidated” if they choose to visit regions against official FCDO advice. All British nationals in these areas are encouraged to “keep your mobile phone with you and charged” and monitor local media for rapid updates.