The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, often in the spotlight for geopolitical conflicts, presents travelers with a complex landscape when it comes to safety (with respect to Travels in the Middle East). With recent developments in the region, it’s crucial to stay informed and exercise caution when planning your journey. You may even ask questions like why do people travel to the Middle East? Or can you travel through the Middle East?
In this article, we provide an overview of countries that are safe for travel, those that require extra precautions, and destinations to avoid for the time being.
Please note that the situation in the MENA region can change rapidly. Always consult the latest travel advisories from your government before making any travel plans.
Countries That Are Safe For Travel | Travels in the Middle East
1. Turkey: A Bridge Between Continents
Turkey, straddling both Asia and Europe, lies more than 500 miles away from the current conflicts in the region. The United States rates it as Level 2: Exercise Caution, similar to most European countries. While Turkey shares its border with Syria, travelers are advised to avoid border regions due to potential terrorism risks. Overall, Turkey is generally considered safe for tourists.
2. Bahrain: A Peaceful Destination
Bahrain remains unaffected by the ongoing conflicts in the region, with a Level 2: Exercise Caution advisory from the U.S. State Department. This island nation in the Persian Gulf is considered a safe destination for travelers.
3. Kuwait: Exercise Normal Precautions
Kuwait, rated at Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions, is one of the safer destinations in the region. Travelers should be cautious, especially in the desert regions near the Iraq border, which are best avoided.
4. Oman: A Tranquil Sultanate
Oman, known for its natural beauty, is generally considered safe for tourists. However, its border with Yemen can be risky due to occasional terrorist attacks and armed conflicts. Oman currently carries a Level 2: Exercise Caution advisory.
5. Qatar: A Mediator’s Role
Qatar, at Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions, is safe for travelers. The Qatari Prime Minister is actively engaged in mediating to de-escalate conflicts in the region, which contributes to its overall safety.
6. United Arab Emirates: Oasis of Stability
Thinking of visiting Dubai or Abu Dhabi? The United Arab Emirates (UAE) remains unaffected by the Israel-Hamas conflict. The Emirates are generally considered safe for tourists and are currently at Level 2: Exercise Caution. Travelers should be aware of the potential for attacks from militant groups in Yemen, as noted by the U.S. State Department.
7. Cyprus: A Haven for Many
Cyprus has been a destination for those fleeing conflict in the region. It is currently at Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions, and the U.S. has not issued any specific warnings. However, travelers are advised to exercise caution, and in case of assistance, contact the embassy. Note that the northern part of Cyprus, known as the “Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus” (“TRNC”), is controlled by Turkish Cypriots but is not recognized by the U.S. or the U.K. When traveling to Cyprus, ensure your entry and exit points are through the Republic of Cyprus.
Countries That Require Extra Precaution | Travels in the Middle East
1. Egypt: Border Concerns
Egypt has carried a Level 3: Reconsider Travel advisory from the U.S. State Department since July. While Egypt shares a border with Gaza, Palestinians have not been allowed to leave Gaza, and humanitarian aid has faced restrictions via the Rafah Crossing in North Sinai. Flights to Egypt are operational, but travelers should avoid border areas, the Sinai Peninsula (except for Sharm-el-Sheikh), and the Western Desert. The U.K.’s Foreign Office advises against travel within 20 kilometers (12 miles) of the Libyan border, as well as North Sinai. South Sinai and areas west of the Nile Valley have an “essential travel only” warning.
2. Jordan: Exercise Caution
Jordan shares a border with Israel and has reassured travelers of its welcoming atmosphere. However, some areas, including the border with Syria, refugee camps, and specific neighborhoods, are off-limits. Jordan is rated at Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution by the State Department. The U.K. also advises against travel within three kilometers (1.8 miles) of the Syrian border and recommends staying away from demonstrations.
3. Algeria: Desert Challenges
Algeria has a Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution advisory, with travelers advised to avoid the Sahara Desert and eastern and southern borders due to terrorism and kidnapping risks. The U.K. Foreign Office explicitly warns against traveling within 30 kilometers of the borders with Libya, Mali, Niger, Mauritania, and Tunisia.
4. Saudi Arabia: Security Concerns
Saudi Arabia has a Level 3: Reconsider Travel advisory from the U.S. due to concerns related to regional proxy groups and their attacks using drones, missiles, and rockets. The U.K. provides similar guidance, echoing the cautionary tone.
5. Tunisia: Vigilance Required
Tunisia currently carries a Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution advisory. While many parts of the country are safe for travel, some areas, including the border with Libya, Chambi Mountain National Park, and Sidi Bou Zid in Central Tunisia, require caution. The U.K. warns of a continued risk of terrorist attacks, including those targeting U.K. and Western interests.
6. Morocco: Protests and Awareness
Morocco has a Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution advisory from the U.S. State Department. Travelers should be mindful of protests in the country and are advised to avoid demonstrations and crowds. Staying alert in tourist-frequented locations is also recommended, along with flexibility in travel plans.
Countries to Avoid for Now | Travels in the Middle East
1. Israel, Gaza, and the West Bank: Elevated Risks
The U.S. State Department updated its travel advisory for Israel on October 14, 2023, due to increased risks of terrorism and civil unrest. Israel and the West Bank are at Level 3: Reconsider Travel, while Gaza has been rated at Level 4: Do Not Travel. Flights have been reduced, and normal tourist operations may be disrupted. Those requiring assistance in these regions can contact the State Department.
The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) in the U.K. advises against all travel to Gaza and the Occupied Palestinian Territories. For Israel, only essential travel is advised.
2. Lebanon: Growing Tensions
Lebanon shares its southern border with Israel and has seen increasing tensions, with Hezbollah’s influence backed by Iran. Recent rocket launches across borders and incidents like the killing of a Reuters journalist raise concerns of a potential regional conflict. Large demonstrations have occurred in Beirut and near the American Embassy. The U.S. State Department has updated its travel warning to Lebanon to Level 4: Do Not Travel.
3. Syria: A Decade of Conflict
Syria has been embroiled in a civil war since 2011, and the United States consistently rates it at Level 4: Do Not Travel. The country faces ongoing risks of terrorism, civil unrest, armed conflicts, kidnappings, and detentions. The State Department emphasizes that no part of Syria is safe from violence.
4. Iran: A Challenging Destination
Iran is also at Level 4: Do Not Travel, mainly due to its support for groups like Hamas and Hezbollah. The U.S. has no diplomatic relations with Iran, making it challenging to provide emergency services to Americans. Travelers are warned about the potential for unjust detention and imprisonment, as Iran does not recognize dual citizenship.
5. Iraq: Persistent Threats
Iraq remains at Level 4: Do Not Travel, with the U.S. cautioning against terrorist attacks in the country. Travelers should especially avoid areas near armed groups in northern Iraq, which have been targeted by neighboring countries’ militaries.
6. Libya: Extremist Activities
Both the U.S. and the U.K. advise citizens to steer clear of Libya, which is rated at Level 4: Do Not Travel. The country is plagued by active extremist groups conducting attacks and kidnappings. Even airspace is off-limits for U.S. commercial airlines.
7. Yemen: High-Risk Territory
The U.S. government advises against travel to Yemen, which is at Level 4: Do Not Travel due to terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, landmines, and armed conflict. The U.S. embassy in Sana’a has been suspended since 2015, and the State Department cannot offer aid to American citizens. Travelers should be aware of the very high risk of kidnapping and detention, particularly for dual-national Yemeni-Americans.
In conclusion, while the MENA region offers diverse cultures and landscapes, it’s essential to prioritize safety when planning your travels. Stay informed about the latest advisories, exercise caution, and consider the specific circumstances in each country to make informed decisions regarding your journey in this dynamic region. Your safety is paramount.
