The U.S. Embassy in Abu Dhabi has issued a security alert urging American citizens in the United Arab Emirates to consider leaving the country if they can do so safely, as regional tensions escalate following the ongoing US-Israel-Iran conflict.
Why did the US embassy issue an alert in the UAE?
The U.S. Embassy in Abu Dhabi has issued a security alert for American citizens in the United Arab Emirates as tensions across the Middle East continue to escalate. The advisory comes amid growing regional instability linked to the ongoing conflict between the United States, Israel and Iran, which has triggered drone and missile activity across the Gulf.
Officials warned that the situation could lead to security risks, travel disruptions and limited consular services for Americans in the country. As a precaution, the U.S. State Department has ordered non-emergency government employees and their families to leave the UAE, citing the threat of armed conflict.
The alert also follows incidents in the region that have heightened security concerns, including drone and missile strikes linked to the conflict with Iran and an attack near the U.S. Consulate in Dubai earlier this week.
While the UAE remains a major global travel hub, especially through Dubai and Abu Dhabi, officials say the situation remains fluid and travelers should stay alert.
US embassy closed until further notice
Due to the security situation, both the U.S. Embassy Abu Dhabi and the U.S. Consulate General Dubai are currently closed to the public, and routine services have been suspended.
This means no in-person consular services are available, including visa processing for foreign nationals. Officials also advised people not to approach embassy or consulate buildings for any reason until further notice.
Authorities said Americans needing assistance should instead contact diplomatic staff through official communication channels.
For those without a valid US passport, the embassy said arrangements will be made to provide passport services once security conditions improve and facilities reopen.
Americans unable to leave
For US citizens who cannot or choose not to leave the UAE, the embassy strongly recommends sheltering in place. Americans have been advised to remain inside their residence, hotel, or another secure building and limit movement outside.
Officials recommended staying away from windows and glass doors and leaving buildings only when necessary to obtain food, water, medicine or other essential supplies.
The embassy also warned that during security incidents such as explosions or missile alerts, people should immediately seek shelter in the safest part of a building.
Safety guidance includes moving to the lowest level of a structure with the fewest exterior walls and windows, closing doors, and staying near interior walls. If outdoors, individuals should seek cover inside a sturdy building or lie down and protect their head if no shelter is available.
Authorities cautioned that falling debris from intercepted missiles or drones can still pose a serious danger, even if air defenses successfully neutralize incoming threats.
Travel advisory
The U.S. government advises American citizens to consider leaving the UAE if it is safe to do so. Commercial flights are still operating, although regional airspace disruptions may affect schedules.
For those staying in the country, the embassy recommends several precautionary steps:
- Monitor local media and official alerts for updates
- Keep travel documents and emergency contacts accessible
- Contact airlines regularly for flight availability
- Prepare an emergency departure plan that does not depend on government evacuation
- Seek shelter indoors if sirens or explosions are reported
The Federal Aviation Administration has also warned airlines to exercise caution when operating flights in the Middle East due to potential missile or drone threats.
Emergency numbers for American
American citizens requiring emergency assistance can contact diplomatic missions directly or reach the State Department’s consular affairs office.
Emergency services in the UAE can be reached through the following numbers:
- Police: 999
- Ambulance: 998
- Fire: 997
The U.S embassy in UAE can be contacted at +971-2-414-2200, while the U.S Consulate General Dubai is reachable at +971-4-309-4000.
Officials also encouraged Americans to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to receive real-time security alerts and updates from US authorities.
The embassy said it will continue to provide further updates as the situation evolves and urged Americans in the region to remain vigilant and follow official guidance.