The Middle East – Important Information

I wanted to write to update you on the fast-moving situation in the Middle East. This will be causing considerable concern and anxiety for British residents, holidaymakers, transit passengers and businesspeople in the region who are affected by the closure of airspace and whose travel plans at this stage remain uncertain. There will also be specific cases of vulnerable individuals with medical or other urgent needs, where concern will be even greater. 

The safety and security of British nationals remain the Government’s top priority. Over the weekend, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) went into a 24/7 crisis response and launched a registration process for those in the region. The ‘Register Your Presence’ tool helps the FCDO to understand how many British nationals are in the region and to ensure that those who wish to can receive regular communications and practical advice from the FCDO, including the latest travel advice. The FCDO continues to use all channels to encourage individuals to register and I encourage you to register via the FCDO website, as this will ensure you receive the latest information by email or text.

The situation on the ground may remain challenging for some time. Across much of the region, airspace remains closed and the instruction of local authorities is for individuals to continue sheltering in place.

The FCDO are also sending Rapid Deployment Teams to key locations in the region to support our British nationals on the ground and they are in close contact with the travel industry and Governments in the region on looking at all options to support British nationals.

The FCDO phone lines are open 24/7 to provide consular support to affected British nationals. Those with enquiries or concerns should call 0207 008 5000. 

If you are a constituent you should:

1. Sign up to FCDO Travel Advice email alerts for the relevant country. British nationals requiring consular support should call the 24/7 phone line on 0207 008 5000.
2. Use the “Register your Presence” service if you are in Bahrain, Israel, Kuwait, Palestine, Qatar, and UAE. Registration helps the FCDO understand individuals and nationals are in the region, what tailored support may be required for vulnerable individuals, and ensure that those who wish to can receive communications and updates.
3. Individuals must follow advice from the local authorities and sign up to receive information and alerts, including where it is recommended to shelter in place. If you are advised to take shelter, stay indoors or find the nearest safe building or designated shelter. An interior stairwell or a room with as few external walls or windows as possible may provide additional protection.
4. Read If you’re affected by a crisis abroad – GOV.UK. This includes guidance on “how to prepare for a crisis” with suggestions on what you might include in your emergency supplies and “what to do in a crisis”. You can also read the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority’s guidance across numerous emergencies. 

The FCDO will be working tirelessly to ensure British national can return home swiftly and safely, and will continue to update affected British nationals as the situation on the ground evolves.