The Ministry of Foreign Affairs updated travel advice for the Middle East. Due to the war, the situation is dangerous. Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna says that Estonian citizens should monitor local news and follow local guidelines.
Tsahkna says the situation is constantly monitored. The advice is to stay where you are and wait until flights resume. It is important to listen to local officials. Many countries have closed their airspace. Airports may not be operational.
There is a lot of misinformation on social media. We recommend trusting only official sources. Below are country-specific travel recommendations.
United Arab Emirates (UAE): Dubai and Abu Dhabi are dangerous. Stay at home, avoid windows. Follow local guidelines. If you receive a phone alert about danger, take cover immediately. Move to a lower floor and away from windows.
UAE airspace is closed. It is not known when it will reopen. Do not go to the airport unless you are sure the flight is operating. If the flight is canceled, call the airline. The border with Oman is open, but movement is slow.
Israel: We recommend Estonian citizens to leave. Airspace is closed. Borders with Egypt and Jordan are operational. Monitor local news.
Saudi Arabia: Airspace is open. Go to the airport only if the flight is confirmed. A visa is required to enter Saudi Arabia. Stay at home and follow instructions.
Qatar: Airspace is closed. The border with Saudi Arabia is open. A visa is required. Stay at home and monitor the news.
Oman: The situation is tense. Flights may be delayed or canceled. Call the airline before traveling. Borders may close quickly. Hotels are filling up fast.
Egypt: The situation is dangerous. Flights may be disrupted. Check flight status before heading to the airport. The situation can change quickly.
Cyprus: There was an attack on March 2. The situation is tense. Monitor local news. There may be movement restrictions.
If you are in the Middle East, register on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website. In case of emergency, call the helpline +372 5301 9999.