Abu Dhabi, 01 May (H.S.):

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has imposed a ban on its citizens travelling to Iran, Lebanon and Iraq, citing the volatile regional situation. The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced on Thursday that, in light of the current developments in the region, Emirati nationals are now prohibited from visiting these three countries.

The ministry has also appealed to all UAE nationals currently present in Iran, Lebanon and Iraq to leave those countries as quickly as possible and return directly to the UAE. As a precautionary safety measure, the government has urged its citizens in these states to contact the ministry through a designated emergency number to facilitate consular assistance and ensure their wellbeing.

The decision comes amid heightened security concerns linked to the ongoing war between the United States–Israel and Iran, which has placed the UAE under significant economic and strategic pressure. With the Strait of Hormuz affected by the hostilities, Emirati oil exports have been disrupted, undermining the country’s energy‑dependent revenues.

Facing inadequate military‑political backing from the Gulf Cooperation Council and the United States, the UAE has openly criticised its traditional allies and adopted a more independent foreign‑policy stance, including the historic move to exit the six‑decade‑old OPEC organisation. Iran has repeatedly targeted Emirati oil facilities, airports and industrial zones through drone and missile strikes, further straining regional trust.

The spectre of war and repeated attacks has driven many foreign tourists and expatriates to distance themselves from the UAE, particularly Dubai, weakening the tourism and services sectors. Seeking compensation for mounting losses and enhanced security costs, the UAE has formally requested a financial guarantee from the United States, arguing that it deserves greater support for shouldering disproportionate risks in the region.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar