US Mission in UAE Urges Americans to Consider Leaving Middle East Amid Rising Regional Tensions

American citizens in the Middle East should consider leaving the region or prepare for departure as security conditions worsen, the U.S. Mission to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) urged Saturday. The mission cited a complex and unpredictable environment amid heightened regional tensions.

In a security advisory, the mission advised Americans in the region to exercise increased caution. They warned of potential flight cancellations, temporary airspace closures, and travel disruptions. Some airlines have already delayed or canceled flights due to the evolving security situation. The advisory also cautioned Americans outside the Middle East to reconsider travel to or through the region.

The U.S. Mission warned that U.S. diplomatic facilities, businesses, and institutions linked to the United States could face threats. It specifically mentioned Iran and groups aligned with Tehran as potential actors targeting U.S. interests overseas. The advisory described the regional situation as "fluid," noting that recent Iranian actions, including attacks beyond previous targets, indicate a possibility of sudden escalation.

U.S. diplomatic posts in Abu Dhabi and Dubai remain under ordered departure status, meaning non-emergency U.S. government personnel have been moved out of the UAE. While consular assistance is available, non-immigrant visa appointments are limited, and all immigrant visa services are suspended. The mission stressed vigilance, stating that the absence of past attacks in a particular country does not guarantee future safety.