Israel warns its citizens not to travel to the United Arab Emirates

The National Security Council of Israel (NSC, for its initials in English) issued an updated travel warning for Israeli citizens planning to visit the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Meanwhile, it was confirmed that most Israeli diplomats will be evacuated from that country.

The new level 3 alert, which represents a call to avoid non-essential travel, comes in a context of increasing threats from terrorist organizations, including Iranian factions, Hamas, Hezbollah, and groups linked to global jihadism.

According to the statement, these organizations have intensified their efforts to target Israeli interests in retaliation for the war with Iran and the ongoing offensive in Gaza.

"The situation in the Middle East has deteriorated considerably," the Council stated, making direct reference to what it called the "Hamas famine campaign", whose objective is to pressure the international community to demand an end to the conflict in Gaza.

The NSC warns that terrorist groups often target neighboring countries during times of regional tension, which increases the risk of attacks against Jewish or Israeli citizens and targets in the Emirates, especially during Jewish holidays, Shabbat, and other symbolic dates.

Although the Emirates were already classified under a previous security warning, the update reinforces existing recommendations and adds new guidelines. Authorities advise Israelis:

• Avoid using visible symbols that may reveal their Israeli or Jewish identity, such as clothing with Hebrew inscriptions or religious accessories.
• Maintain a high level of alertness and attention to the immediate environment.
• Do not participate in public gatherings with other Israelis and avoid visiting Jewish or Israeli institutions.
• Immediately report any suspicious activity to local authorities.

In addition to the notice to civilians, the decision to evacuate most of Israel's diplomatic staff in the UAE reflects the seriousness of the threats detected by intelligence agencies.

Israeli authorities are in constant contact with international counterparts to monitor possible attacks and prevent incidents that may affect their citizens abroad.