by Lacey Pfalz
Last updated: 8:50 AM ET, Mon August 11, 2025
The United States’ Department of State has reissued a Level 2 travel advisory for the United Arab Emirates on August 8, reiterating the current conditions which may pose risks for terrorism and missile or drone attacks, due to its close proximity to the war in Gaza.
A Level 2 warning by the State Department generally means there are some risks associated with traveling to the country, but travelers are not advised to change their travel plans. They are encouraged to exercise increased precautions, however.
The travel advisory reads, “Residents and visitors generally find a safe and secure environment in the UAE. However, elevated regional tensions have aggravated the risk of aerial and other terror attacks across the region. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning and may target tourist locations, transportation hubs, shopping areas, government facilities, places of worship and in particular locations associated with the Jewish and Israeli communities.”
The advisory also notes that the FAA issues an advisory Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) to U.S. air carriers operating throughout the Middle East to exercise increased caution while flying above certain airspace.
The State Department recommends staying alert with regional news throughout a stay in the United Arab Emirates and to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), which provides important alerts and points of contact between travelers and the U.S. Department of State.
Travelers are also encouraged to research the culture and laws of the United Arab Emirates, as there are different cultural and social norms, and some laws carry heavy penalties.
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