US orders non-emergency staff to leave UAE amid growing security concerns / Image: File
On Sunday, March 8, 2026, the U.S. Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the U.S. Consulate General in Dubai, under the supervision of U.S. Ambassador Martina Strong, officially issued an urgent security alert to all U.S. citizens currently in or traveling to the United Arab Emirates.
While the UAE remains a leading global destination, this notice serves as a proactive guidance for travelers to maintain heightened vigilance and situational awareness. The US mission’s message is clear: in an ever-changing regional landscape, being informed and prepared is the most effective way to ensure a safe and uninterrupted visit.
Why did the US embassy issue an alert in the UAE?
The US Embassy in Abu Dhabi has issued a security warning for US citizens in the UAE as tensions continue to rise in the Middle East.
These warnings come amid growing regional instability linked to the ongoing conflict between the United States, Israel and Iran, which has led to drone and missile activity across the Gulf.Officials warned that the situation could lead to security risks, travel disruption and limited consular services for Americans in the country. As a precaution, the US State Department ordered non-essential government employees and their families to leave the UAE, citing the risk of armed conflict.
The alert also follows incidents in the region that have raised security concerns, including drone and missile strikes linked to the conflict with Iran and an attack near the US consulate in Dubai earlier this week.While the UAE remains a major hub for global travel, especially via Dubai and Abu Dhabi, officials say the situation remains volatile and travelers should remain alert.
The US Embassy is closed until further notice
Due to the security situation, both the American Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the United States
The Consulate General in Dubai is currently closed to the public, and routine services have been suspended.This means that in-person consular services, including visa processing, are not available for foreign nationals. Officials also advised people not to approach embassy or consulate buildings for any reason until further notice.Authorities said Americans who need assistance should instead contact diplomatic staff through official communication channels.For those who do not have a valid US passport, the embassy said arrangements will be made to provide passport services once security conditions improve and facilities reopen.
The Americans are unable to leave
For US citizens who cannot or choose not to leave the UAE, the Embassy strongly recommends that they remain where they are. Americans have been advised to stay inside their residence, hotel or other secure building and limit movement outside.Officials recommended staying away from windows and glass doors and not leaving buildings unless necessary to obtain food, water, medicine or other essential supplies.The embassy also warned that during security incidents such as explosions or missile alerts, people should immediately seek shelter in the safest part of the building.Safety guidelines include moving to the lowest level of the building with the fewest exterior walls and windows, closing doors, and staying close to interior walls. If individuals are outdoors, they should seek cover inside a sturdy building or lie down and protect their heads if no shelter is available.Authorities have warned that falling debris from intercepted missiles or drones still poses a serious danger, even if air defenses succeed in neutralizing incoming threats.
Travel warning
The United States government advises American citizens to consider leaving the United Arab Emirates if it is safe to do so. Commercial flights are still operating, although regional airspace disruptions may impact schedules.For residents of the country, the embassy recommends several precautionary steps:
- Monitor local media and official alerts for updates
- Maintain access to travel documents and emergency contacts
- Contact airlines regularly for flight availability
- Prepare an emergency departure plan that does not rely on government evacuation
- Seek shelter indoors if sirens or explosions are reported
The Federal Aviation Administration also warned airlines to be cautious when operating flights in the Middle East due to potential threats from missiles or drones.
Emergency numbers for America
U.S. citizens in need of emergency assistance can contact diplomatic missions directly or reach out to the Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs.Emergency services in the UAE can be contacted via the following numbers:
- Police: 999
- Ambulance: 998
- Fire: 997
The US Embassy in the UAE can be contacted at +971-2-414-2200, while the US Consulate General in Dubai can be contacted at +971-4-309-4000.Officials also encouraged Americans to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to receive real-time security alerts and updates from US authorities.The embassy said it would continue to provide further updates as the situation evolves and urged Americans in the region to remain vigilant and follow official directives.