UK FCDO Advises Against Travel to Bahrain Amid Regional Security Threats
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has issued a travel advisory cautioning British nationals against traveling to Bahrain amid significant regional security risks. The advisory highlights that the Iranian regime has publicly declared intentions to target US and Israeli-linked locations, including organisations, businesses, and military or security facilities within the region. These threats extend to civilian infrastructure, with continuing Iranian attacks reported on ports, hotels, roads, bridges, energy facilities, oil production sites, water systems, and airports. The FCDO advises avoidance of any areas near security or military installations as well as US-linked entities. Bahrain's airspace was reopened on April 8 following a closure that began on February 28, but limited commercial flights operate from Bahrain International Airport. The advisory highlights potential disruptions and the possibility of rapid imposition of further air or land border restrictions, including closures of the King Fahd Causeway linking Bahrain to Saudi Arabia. British nationals are urged to register their presence in Bahrain with the UK government and keep departure plans under review. Guidance emphasizes ensuring travel documentation and visas for onward travel are up to date. For those traveling to Saudi Arabia, special conditions apply, including vehicle ownership registration rules and validity requirements for British Emergency Travel Documents or passports. The FCDO recommends adherence to local authorities’ instructions, including taking shelter indoors when advised, avoiding unexploded ordnance or debris, and restricting movements to essential journeys only. As a precautionary measure, some UK Embassy staff and their dependents have been temporarily withdrawn, although consular services continue to operate. The advisory also stresses the importance of proper travel insurance to cover itinerary, activities, and emergencies. British nationals are reminded that travel within or out of Bahrain carries inherent risks under the current security situation.
