Middle East Conflict Disrupts Travel Across the Region
The ongoing conflict in the Middle East, triggered by US and Israeli strikes on Iran, has rapidly affected travel across the region. The operation, referred to as “Operation Epic Fury,” resulted in the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on 28 February, sparking a swift escalation that now involves at least a dozen countries. Drone attacks and missile strikes have targeted military and civilian locations, including the RAF base in Cyprus and several Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states, creating widespread disruption for travellers and commercial flights.
Airspace Closures and Travel Advisories
Governments worldwide have responded with heightened travel warnings. The US State Department issued a “depart now” advisory for American citizens across 14 Middle Eastern nations, including Egypt, even though some have not been directly affected. The UK, Canada, and Australia have similarly warned against all non-essential travel to impacted regions, urging citizens to stay alert and follow local guidance. Rapidly shifting conditions mean that travellers must continuously monitor updates, as airspace closures and flight suspensions can occur with little notice.
Country-by-Country Impact
Iran remains completely closed to civilian travel, with all international flights suspended and borders limited to overland crossings into Turkey and Armenia.
The United Arab Emirates has begun reopening airports in Dubai and Abu Dhabi after Iranian drone strikes caused temporary closures. Airlines like Emirates and Etihad are gradually resuming flights and offering assistance to stranded passengers. While authorities provide food and accommodation for affected travellers.
Qatar and Oman face similar disruptions. With Qatari airspace closed and Oman experiencing lighter impacts, though drone strikes have targeted strategic ports. Both countries have issued shelter-in-place guidance for certain areas, and international advisories remain high.
Israel and Lebanon continue to experience air raid alerts and retaliatory attacks. Key airports, such as Ben Gurion in Israel, have temporarily halted operations, while Lebanon urges immediate departure for foreign nationals due to ongoing threats from Hezbollah.
Gulf States on High Alert
Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Bahrain have seen retaliatory attacks affecting embassies and airports. Authorities have advised travellers to avoid non-essential travel. While US citizens are being urged to leave immediately. Jordan and Iraq have partially closed airspace and reinforced security measures, with the US ordering evacuations of non-essential embassy staff.
Europe and Beyond: Cyprus and Egypt
The conflict has now reached Europe. With a drone strike on the UK’s RAF Akrotiri base in Cyprus causing minor damage and flight disruptions. Paphos International Airport was evacuated after a radar alert. Resulting in cancellations and temporary suspension of services such as EasyJet flights to the UK. While Egypt has not been directly targeted. The US and Canadian authorities caution high vigilance, and travellers are advised to monitor official updates before visiting.
Guidance for Travellers
Experts emphasize that travel decisions should consider both local conditions and individual risk tolerance. With airports, ports, and urban centres being affected, flexibility is essential. Safety remains the priority. And authorities advise that no flights or travel hubs should operate if there is a credible threat to passengers or staff. Travellers are urged to stay informed through official channels and follow instructions. From both local governments and their home country embassies.
