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Is it safe to travel to Qatar right now? Latest travel advice

Qatar has been key to negotiations between israel, hamas and the west. here’s what you need to know about visiting this arab nation, including foreign office advice.

Q atar became the first Middle Eastern country to host the Fifa World Cup in 2022, putting it on the tourist map for those who might be looking for an alternative to the UAE. Like its regional neighbour, there is awe-inspiring architecture to gawk at and traditional souks selling herbs and spices, but the Arabic nation is also a centre for traditional and modern art. Among the highlights are the Museum of Islamic Art and Mathaf (the Arab Museum of Modern Art), both of which are in the capital, Doha.

Since the conflict between Israel and Hamas began, Qatar has also become an important regional mediator, despite the fact that it doesn’t border the countries involved. Here’s what you need to know.

Main photo: Mina District at Old Doha Port, Qatar (Alamy)

This article contains affiliate links, which may earn us revenue

What’s the latest government advice about travelling to Qatar?

The UK Foreign Office (FCDO) does not currently have any travel advisories about Qatar . However, the FCDO says that terrorism in the country can’t be ruled out, and busy areas such as hotels, shopping centres and beaches could be targets.

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You should also be aware of local laws and customs, as well as actions that might cause offence. For example, public displays of intimacy could lead to arrest, while both men and women should dress modestly. During Ramadan, eating and drinking in public, as well as swearing, playing music or dancing would be considered offensive.

Has Qatar been affected by the Israel-Hamas conflict?

Qatar does not border Israel, so it’s not directly affected by the conflict with Hamas. However, Qatar does have close ties with Hamas and has been an important regional mediator — it was key in the negotiations that secured the release of two American hostages held by Hamas.

Is it safe to travel to Qatar right now?

The high-profile death of British travel industry executive Marc Bennett in 2022 raised questions over whether it’s safe to travel to the country. However, there’s no reason not to travel to Qatar right now. The Arab nation is considered a safe place to visit and crime levels are also generally low.

What are Qatar’s entry requirements?

Those using a full British passport to travel to Qatar for tourism can get a free 30-day visa waiver on arrival. You can extend this through the Qatar Ministry of Interior. However, you will need a confirmed return or onward ticket, and your passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the day you arrive.

If you’re travelling on a non-standard British passport, such as one from a British Overseas Territory, you will need a visa. You will also need a visa if you’re visiting the country for another reason.

Is Qatar safe for female travellers?

Qatar is generally considered safe for female travellers. However, you should still take care when walking or travelling alone, especially at night. You should also use reputable taxi firms.

The FCDO says that personal attacks, including sexual assault and rape, are relatively rare but they do happen. However, local laws mean that the burden of proof rests heavily on the victim. If they cannot prove that the sex was non-consensual, it may lead to their prosecution.

Those who have been sexually assaulted are advised to call the British Embassy on +974 4496 2000 for advice. It has also provided written guidance for victims of rape or sexual assault in Qatar.

Is Qatar safe for LGBT travellers?

Homosexuality is illegal in Qatar. Same-sex relationships can lead to imprisonment or the death penalty.

• Best hotels in Qatar • Best things to do in Qatar

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Inspired to visit Qatar but yet to book your trip? Here are the best packages from BA Holidays and Expedia .

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Middle East GCC

• Iran English ایران فارسی
• Iraq English العراق العربيّة
• Jordan English الأردن العربيّة
• Kuwait English الكويت العربيّة
• Lebanon English لبنان العربيّة Liban Français
• Oman English عُمان العربيّة
• Qatar English قطر العربيّة
• Saudi Arabia English المملكة العربِيّة السعودية العربِيّة
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Read the information on the COVID-19: Health Considerations for Travel page for advice on travelling during the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Review both the Vaccination and Malaria sections on this page to find out if you may need vaccines and/or a malaria risk assessment before you travel to this country.

If you think you require vaccines and/or malaria risk assessment, you should make an appointment with a travel health professional:

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• Do I need a travel health risk assessment?

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Many of the health risks experienced by travellers cannot be prevented by vaccines and other measures need to be taken.

Always make sure you understand the wider risks at your destination and take precautions, including:

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Our advice section gives detailed information on minimising specific health risks abroad:

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Make sure you have travel insurance before travel to cover healthcare abroad.

Find out if there are any restrictions you need to consider if you are travelling with medicines .

Know how to access healthcare at your destination: see the GOV.UK English speaking doctors and medical facilities: worldwide list

If you feel unwell on your return home from travelling abroad, always seek advice from a healthcare professional and let them know your travel history.

Vaccinations

• Confirm primary courses and boosters are up to date as recommended for life in Britain - including for example, seasonal flu vaccine (if indicated), MMR , vaccines required for occupational risk of exposure, lifestyle risks and underlying medical conditions.
• Courses or boosters usually advised: none.
• Other vaccines to consider: Hepatitis A; Tetanus.
• Selectively advised vaccines - only for those individuals at highest risk: Hepatitis B; Rabies.

Yellow fever vaccination certificate required for travellers aged 9 months or over arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission .

Notes on the diseases mentioned above

Risk is higher where personal hygiene and sanitation is poor.

Risk is higher for long stays, frequent travel and for children (exposed through cuts and scratches), those who may require medical treatment during travel.

• Tetanus :  spread through contamination of cuts, burns and wounds with tetanus spores. Spores are found in soil worldwide. A total of 5 doses of tetanus vaccine are recommended for life in the UK. Boosters are usually recommended in a country or situation where the correct treatment of an injury may not be readily available.
• Malaria not normally present unless the illness was contracted abroad.

There is a risk of exposure to coronavirus (COVID-19) in this country.

Please be aware that the risk of COVID-19 in this country may change at short notice and also consider your risk of exposure in any transit countries and from travelling itself. 

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For further information, see  Coronavirus disease (COVID-19)  and  COVID-19: Health Considerations for Travel  pages.

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Travel Advisory July 13, 2023

Qatar - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise normal precautions in Qatar.

Due to risks to civil aviation operating within the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman region, including Qatar, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued an advisory Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) and/or a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR). For more information U.S. citizens should consult the  Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices .

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Qatar.

If you decide to travel to Qatar:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Follow the U.S. Embassy in Qatar on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Qatar.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

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U.S. Embassy Doha

Al-Luqta District 22nd February Street PO Box 2399 Doha, Qatar Telephone: +(974) 4496-6000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(974) 4496-6000 Fax: +(974) 4488-4298 Email:  [email protected]  or  [email protected]

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Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Tourist visas:  When traveling on a U.S. tourist passport, travelers may obtain a free visa upon arrival, if they have six-months validity in their passport and a return or onward ticket. The visa is valid for 30 days from the date of issuance and entitles the holder to spend up to 30 days in Qatar, or multiple entries during the 30-day validity. It may be extended for a further 30 days. See the Government of Qatar’s website for  visa information .

Former Residency Permit Holders:  Former resident permit holders seeking to return to Qatar should carry a “no objection letter” issued by their former sponsor.

For further information on residence permits, see the  Qatari government  or  U.S. Embassy website .

Exit Permits:

• Exit permits are no longer required for U.S. citizens working in Qatar, with the exception of employees deemed “essential” by their employers, who must still be granted an exit permit.
• If you owe money, you will be barred from exiting Qatar. Qatari banks place holds on accounts to ensure all debts are paid before you leave.
• U.S. citizens with family residence visas do not need an exit permit. However, a family member who sponsors their dependents (usually the person employed in Qatar) can elect to receive instant notification if dependents attempt to depart the country.

Qatar does not recognize dual nationality.  If you hold Qatari citizenship, Qatari law requires that you enter and exit on your Qatari passport. Qatari authorities may confiscate your U.S. passport if you hold Qatari/U.S. dual nationality. Should this happen, contact the U.S. Embassy. The seizure does not constitute loss of U.S. citizenship.

Military Personnel  should consult the Department of Defense Foreign Clearance Guide before traveling, since different entry/exit requirements may apply. For further information, call the Host Nation Coordination Cell of the 379 th  Air Expeditionary Wing at 011-974-5551-0815.

Some restrictions  exist for foreign residents of Qatar who test positive for certain communicable diseases, including HIV/AIDs. Medical exams are required for individuals seeking residency in Qatar, but not for transit passengers or short-term visitors.  Qatari authorities will not bar HIV-positive temporary visitors from entry to Qatar based on their health status.  However, Qatar denies residency and employment to HIV or tuberculosis-positive applicants (among other communicable diseases).  Short-term visitors to Qatar with medications on their person are advised to carry a copy of their prescriptions. Please verify this information with the  Embassy of Qatar  before you travel.

Customs  regulations prohibit the import of alcohol over the duty-free cap, narcotics, pork products, weapons or weapons-related articles (hand cuffs, laser pointers, etc.), drones, professional photography equipment to include telescopic lenses, as well as pornographic or sexually-related materials.

See Qatar’s  website  for specific information regarding customs requirements.

Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction  and  customs regulations  on our websites.

Safety and Security

Terrorism:  Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad.  Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to target crowds more effectively target crowds.  Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as: 

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.) 
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists 
• Places of worship 
• Schools 
• Parks 
• Shopping malls and markets 
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)  

For more information, see our Terrorism page.  

Exercise normal precautions in Qatar.  See our Travel Advisory for more information. Safety Precautions:

• Practice personal security measures at all times.
• Keep a low profile.
• Be aware of your surroundings and local events.
• Stay alert in locations frequented by Westerners.
• Monitor local media broadcasts and consular messages.
• Vary travel routes and times when possible.
• Be extra vigilant when frequenting banks or ATMs.

Areas to Avoid:

• Large crowds and demonstrations in case of unrest
• Labor or work camps located outside of cities and major industrial areas.  These areas are highly congested with limited physical and hygiene standards.

Crime : The crime rate in Qatar is generally low. Incidents of violence and petty theft are rare but do occur.  There is a large police presence throughout the country.

International Financial Scams: See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  webpages for information on scams.

Victims of Crime : Report crimes to the local police at 999 and contact the U.S. Embassy at + (974) 4496-6000.  Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

Victims of Sexual Assault:  Sexual relations outside of marriage are illegal in Qatar and subject to criminal prosecution. Instances can result in arrest, fines, imprisonment, and deportation.  If a U.S. citizen is a victim of sexual assault in Qatar, we strongly encourage you to contact the U.S. Embassy immediately, prior to contacting the local authorities.

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are strongly urged to contact the Embassy immediately at + (974) 4496-6000 for assistance. Victims may also seek medical care through Hamad Hospital emergency room at 16060 or +(974) 4439-5777 if you are calling from overseas.

• Help you find appropriate medical care
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation   and following its conclusion Provide
• Provide a list of  local attorneys
• Provide our information on  victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• Help you arrange flights home
• Replace a stolen or lost passport
• Assist in the birth or death of a U.S. Citizen

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

Information on local resources and assistance can be found on the Protection and Social Rehabilitation Centre website and through their hotline: 6693-3999, 6693-3108, or 6693-3919.

Tourism : The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities. First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities and to provide urgent medical treatment. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Exit bans prevent those faced with legal proceedings from leaving Qatar until their case is abandoned or resolved.  This can take months or years. The Government of Qatar does not offer any social support for individuals under exit bans.

Reasons for exit bans can include:

• Labor or financial disputes
• Personal debt (including bounced checks, credit card debt, and bank loans)
• Outstanding contracts or leases
• Traffic fines
• Pending legal matters, including cases related to gestures or behavior reported by Qataris that are viewed as “offensive.”

U.S. citizens have been subjected to exit bans and/or placed in prison pending payment of debts.

Always carry a copy of your passport for proof of identity, or authorities may detain you for questioning.

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be arrested, deported, or imprisoned.  Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the U.S., regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Criminal penalties for certain offenses are much harsher than those in the U.S.:

• Incidents involving obscene language, gestures, or insulting comments often result in arrest, imprisonment, and/or fines.
• Alcohol-Related Offenses, including public intoxication, can result in severe penalties such as arrest, heavy fines, imprisonment, and/or deportation.  Qatar maintains a zero-tolerance policy against drinking and driving.
• Use of Illegal Drugs can result in long jail sentences and steep fines.

Arrest Notification:  Qatari authorities do not routinely notify the U.S. Embassy of a U.S. citizen’s arrest. If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. If you are not allowed to do so, ask a friend or family member to contact the U.S. Embassy.  See our  webpage  for further information.

For more serious crimes, Qatari authorities may not allow U.S. Embassy officials to visit until the initial interrogation is completed.

Qatari police sometimes arrest U.S. citizens without providing access to legal counsel.  You could be arrested for being a:

• Potential witness to a crime (including traffic accidents involving injuries; slander, traffic arguments, etc.)
• Relative of a suspect
• Criminal Suspect

If arrested—regardless of the charge—you may spend 1-2 nights in jail before a hearing takes place. Once arrested, only the Qatari Public Prosecution and Courts have the authority to grant a release.

See our  webpage  for further information.

Qatari law favors employers over employees.  In the event of a contract or employment dispute, Qatari authorities refer to the Arabic language of a contract. Employees have limited recourse if their employer terminates a contract early. If a sponsor files a complaint against an employee who departed Qatar, the employee may be barred from returning to Qatar, even on a tourist or airport visa. Many terminated U.S. citizens have been barred from departing Qatar because of pre-existing debt.

Despite recent legal changes, transferring employment prior to the end of a contract often requires the permission of the previous employer and is subject to approval by the Ministry of the Interior. Additional mechanisms for transferring employers exist through the Ministry of Interior in cases such as bankruptcy, abuse, or repeated failure to pay an employee on time.

Drug Use: Most drugs that are illegal in the United States are also illegal in Qatar, including marijuana/THC, CBD products, and vape products. The potential consequences for use or possession may be harsh.  

Clothing : Many public areas in Qatar have dress codes that require both men and women cover shoulders, chests, stomachs, and knees, and that tight leggings be covered by a long shirt or dress. Attire standards can vary between neighborhoods and facilities.  Faith-Based Travelers:  Religion is a very sensitive issue in Qatar; treat any discussions on religion with care and caution. The law provides for a prison sentence of up to seven years for defaming, desecrating, or committing blasphemy against Islam, Christianity, or Judaism. Public worship by non-Islamic faiths and atheism are illegal and subject to prosecution.

Proselytizing is against the law.  Attempts to covert a member of another religion or even “share your faith” can be considered “proselytizing.” Penalties cancan include deportation or imprisonment.

While you may import religious material for personal use,  bringing religious materials into the country for proselytizing purposes is prohibited.

Charitable activities, both religious and non-religious, must be approved in advance by the Ministry of Social Affairs.

See our following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports
• Human Rights Report  – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTQI+ Travelers:  Same-sex sexual relations between men are illegal, even if consensual. Penalties include lashing, lengthy prison sentences and/or deportation.

There is no law criminalizing same-sex sexual relations between women, though cultural norms are conservative.

Businesses are prohibited from selling and individuals are prohibited from distributing rainbow colored merchandise.  

See our  LGBTI Travel Information  page and section 6 of our  Human Rights report  for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities: The law in Qatar prohibits discrimination against persons with physical, sensory, intellectual, or mental disabilities, the law is not enforced.  Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is not as prevalent as in the in the United States.  Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure.

Students : See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  Unaccompanied expatriate women may be verbally and/or physically harassed. In deference to Islamic culture, avoid wearing sleeveless shirts, halter-tops, or shorts. Only wear athletic clothing in public when engaged in sports activities.

See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

Journalists : Journalists, including independent content creators and vloggers, need specific visas and permissions to use photography and videography equipment, or to conduct interviews or reporting within Qatar. There is no legal guarantee of press freedom or freedom of expression in Qatar.

Photography : Photographing local people in Qatar, particularly women, is illegal without permission.

COVID-19 Testing:  COVID-19 tests are available from many local medical providers and hospitals. Testing is paid for by the individual or, in some instances, their insurance plan or employer. Private hospitals charge QR 50 - 160 test. Test results are usually provided by email, but some clinics require you to pick up the travel certificate in person. Please refer to the Ministry of Public Health’s webpage for additional information.

COVID-19 Vaccines:   The COVID-19 vaccine is available for U.S. citizens to receive in Qatar. Please refer to the Ministry of Public Health’s webpage for additional information.

Visit the FDA's website to learn more about FDA-approved vaccines in the United States.

Modern medical facilities and Western-style pharmacies are available. Doctors and hospitals expect immediate cash payment for health services.

For information on the Qatari national healthcare system, see the  Qatar Ministry of Health website .

For emergency services in Qatar, dial 999. 

Ambulance services are widely available. 

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See  our webpage  for more information on insurance coverage. Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  for more information on the type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Some prescription medications from the United States are unavailable or restricted in Qatar, for example, stimulants, strong pain medications, and some medications used by HIV+ patients. Check with the  Qatari customs authority  on proper travel procedures and the  Ministry of Public Health  to ensure the medication is legal in Qatar. Discuss a health care plan with your doctor before you travel.

Contraceptives, Pregnancy, and Prenatal Care:  Sexual intercourse outside of marriage is illegal in Qatar.  As such, pregnant women must present a marriage certificate to receive prenatal care at medical facilities in Qatar.  Unmarried pregnant women should consult the U.S. Embassy prior to pursuing prenatal care in Qatar. Contraceptives are available over the counter with no prescription required. Emergency contraceptives are not available. We advise all travelers to plan accordingly.

Vaccinations : Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further Health Information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

Air Quality:  Air quality is poor in Qatar, with frequent dust and particle pollution. Members of sensitive groups may experience more serious health effects. Visit  AirNow Department of State  for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a  list of doctors and hospitals . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety: For current traffic regulations, see the  Ministry of Interior’s Traffic Police  website.

Driving:  The legal minimum driving age is 18.  Holders of a U.S. issued driver’s license can drive in Qatar for two weeks, but most car rental agencies require an international driver’s license. Three-month Temporary Licenses are available.  International Driving Licenses are valid in Qatar for six months from the date of arrival.  Resident expatriates should apply for a full Qatari license. If you are caught operating a vehicle without a valid license, penalties can be severe.  For more information, see the Qatari Traffic Services website .

Traffic accidents  are one of the leading causes of death in Qatar. The extensive use of roundabouts, numerous road construction projects, and high-speed driving can be challenging. In rural areas, poor lighting, wandering camels, and roads without shoulders create hazards.  If you are in an accident without a license, any insurance may be held invalid, and you could be left with extensive bills and legal charges.

Avoid arguments over traffic incidents . Qatari citizens who feel insulted can file a police complaint that can result in your arrest and overnight detention. Drivers are liable for persons injured in a traffic accident. Local police have held U.S. citizens overnight while ascertaining the extent of injuries.

Traffic Fines:  Please be aware that traffic offenses are easily captured via well-placed cameras and the fines can be expensive. Unpaid traffic fines can result in an exit ban until reconciled. 

Public Transportation:  Regulated and registered taxi services (Uber, Karwa, Fox Transportation, and Careem) are widely available and generally safe to use. The Embassy recommends you avoid use unlicensed taxi operators or drivers who approach you and attempt to solicit business. Do not allow the driver to pick up additional passengers along the way. To avoid cultural misunderstandings, females traveling alone should always sit in the back (never the front) seat. 

Qatar Rail : The Doha Metro is safe, modern, and inexpensive.

Mowasalat Public Bus : Laborers and construction workers predominantly use this mode of public transportation. The front seats in the buses are generally reserved for women and children. The U.S. Embassy recommends the use of regulated taxi services rather than public buses.

See our  Road Safety page  for more information.

Aviation Safety Oversight:  The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Qatar’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Qatar’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to Qatar should also check for  U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the NGA broadcast warnings . 

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Qatar . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

Travel Advisory Levels

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Afghanistan

Antigua and Barbuda

Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba

Bosnia and Herzegovina

British Virgin Islands

Burkina Faso

Burma (Myanmar)

Cayman Islands

Central African Republic

Cote d Ivoire

Curaçao

Czech Republic

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Dominican Republic

El Salvador

Equatorial Guinea

Eswatini (Swaziland)

Falkland Islands

France (includes Monaco)

French Guiana

French Polynesia

French West Indies

Guadeloupe, Martinique, Saint Martin, and Saint Barthélemy (French West Indies)

Guinea-Bissau

Isle of Man

Israel, The West Bank and Gaza

Liechtenstein

Marshall Islands

Netherlands

New Caledonia

New Zealand

North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea)

Papua New Guinea

Philippines

Republic of North Macedonia

Republic of the Congo

Saint Kitts and Nevis

Saint Lucia

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Sao Tome and Principe

Saudi Arabia

Sierra Leone

Sint Maarten

Solomon Islands

South Africa

South Korea

South Sudan

Switzerland

The Bahamas

Timor-Leste

Trinidad and Tobago

Turkmenistan

Turks and Caicos Islands

United Arab Emirates

United Kingdom

Vatican City (Holy See)

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Western Desert

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the area west of the Nile Valley and Nile Delta regions, except for:

Luxor, Qina, Aswan, Abu Simbel and the Valley of the Kings

the Governorate of Faiyum

the coastal areas between the Nile Delta and Marsa Matruh

the Marsa Matruh-Siwa Road

the oasis town of Siwa

the Giza Governorate north-east of the Bahariya Oasis

the road between Giza and Farafra (but we advise against all but essential travel on the road between Bahariya and Siwa)

Bahariya Oasis, Farafra, the White Desert and Black Desert

Hala’ib Triangle and Bir Tawil Trapezoid

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the Hala’ib Triangle and the Bir Tawil Trapezoid.

If you are concerned about friends or family, or need consular assistance call:

British Embassy Cairo on + 20 (0)2 2791 6000

+44 1767 667 600 (UK number) if you experience technical difficulties with the above number

Advice was issued after Iran carried out military action against Israel on April 13. The advice is for anyone who is travelling to the North African country to monitor travel advice and other media as the situation "is changing fast".

The FCDO’s advice for Morocco has not changed following the April attack, however it has highlighted that it is more important than ever to get travel insurance and check that it provides sufficient cover before visiting the country.

The Foreign Office does not currently advise against travelling to any part of the country. However, it does state that terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks. In particular, there is an increased threat linked to the number of Moroccans sympathetic or belonging to Daesh (formerly ISIL) and other extremist groups.

The places highlighted as being at heightened risk include crowded areas, government buildings, transport networks, businesses with Western interests, and areas where foreign nationals and tourists are known to gather. You should stay vigilant and follow the advice of local authorities, the Foreign Office advises.

They say: "If you are travelling or living abroad, particularly in areas where a crisis is more likely to occur, take sensible precautions. This applies if you’re travelling to or living somewhere where there is a high risk of terrorism, unrest or natural disasters.

"You are responsible for your own personal safety. Follow the advice provided by the UK government and local authorities. We do not have a general duty of care to British nationals abroad."

If you are affected by a crisis abroad call the FCDO on (+44) (0)207 008 5000.

There is no advice against travel to Turkey but people are warned to check the latest situation before travelling. The Foreign Office have also urged people to make sure they have travel insurance in place before going on holiday.

The areas where there could be concern have been highlighted by the FCDO. In the rest of the country, it’s a case of staying vigilant. Here are the areas of concern:

Border with Syria

FCDO advises against all travel within 10km of the border with Syria.

Sirnak (city)

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to Sirnak (city).

Hakkari province

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to Hakkari province.

The Israel-Hamas war has led to heightened tensions in the region and demonstrations are ongoing in cities across Turkey. The Foreign Office states that demonstrations have been reported outside diplomatic missions connected to the conflict in major cities, particularly Israeli diplomatic missions in Ankara and Istanbul, and that visitors should avoid all demonstrations and leave the area if one develops. Local transport routes may also be disrupted.

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Warnings and insurance

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide as well as support for British nationals abroad which includes:

• advice on preparing for travel abroad and reducing risks
• information for women, LGBT+ and disabled travellers

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

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Foreign travel advice

Get advice about travelling abroad, including the latest information on coronavirus, safety and security, entry requirements and travel warnings.

Countries or territories

226 Countries or territories

Countries starting with A

• Afghanistan
• Antarctica/British Antarctic Territory
• Antigua and Barbuda

Countries starting with B

• Bonaire/St Eustatius/Saba
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• British Indian Ocean Territory
• British Virgin Islands
• Burkina Faso

Countries starting with C

• Cayman Islands
• Central African Republic
• Cook Islands, Tokelau and Niue
• Côte d'Ivoire
• Czech Republic

Countries starting with D

• Democratic Republic of the Congo
• Dominican Republic

Countries starting with E

• El Salvador
• Equatorial Guinea

Countries starting with F

• Falkland Islands
• Federated States of Micronesia
• French Guiana
• French Polynesia

Countries starting with G

• Guinea-Bissau

Countries starting with H

Countries starting with i, countries starting with j, countries starting with k, countries starting with l.

• Liechtenstein

Countries starting with M

• Marshall Islands
• Myanmar (Burma)

Countries starting with N

• Netherlands
• New Caledonia
• New Zealand
• North Korea
• North Macedonia

Countries starting with O

Countries starting with p.

• The Occupied Palestinian Territories
• Papua New Guinea
• Philippines
• Pitcairn Island

Countries starting with Q

Countries starting with r, countries starting with s.

• São Tomé and Principe
• Saudi Arabia
• Sierra Leone
• Solomon Islands
• South Africa
• South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands
• South Korea
• South Sudan
• St Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha
• St Kitts and Nevis
• St Martin and St Barthélemy
• St Pierre & Miquelon
• St Vincent and the Grenadines
• Switzerland

Countries starting with T

• Timor-Leste
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Turkmenistan
• Turks and Caicos Islands

Countries starting with U

• United Arab Emirates

Countries starting with V

Countries starting with w.

• Wallis and Futuna
• Western Sahara

Countries starting with Y

Countries starting with z, get updates for all countries, is this page useful.

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