Terrorists are “very likely” to carry out attacks in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Kuwait, the Foreign Office (FCDO) has warned.
The FCDO said terrorists “continue to issue statements threatening to carry out attacks in the Gulf region”, popular with tourists.
It also said terrorists referred to attacks on western interests, including “residential compounds, military, oil, transport and aviation interests, as well as crowded places such as restaurants, hotels, beaches, shopping centres and mosques”.
“You should maintain a high level of security awareness, particularly in public places,” the FCDO added.
“There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. You should remain vigilant at all times.”
Around 1.5 million British nationals visit the UAE each year, while around 10,000 visit Kuwait each year where some 4,000 live. “Most visits are trouble-free,” the FCDO added with regards to both countries.
The warning comes against a backdrop of heightened tensions in the Middle East following Hamas’s assault on Israel and Israel’s subsequent counter-offensive.
The FCDO is advising against all but essential travel to Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories, and against all travel to Lebanon and Iran.
Several Gulf states have been hosting negotiations aimed at achieving a de-escalation of the crisis, and getting more humanitarian aid into Gaza.
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