UK lifts previous travel advisory to Kuwait except for essential travel
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has revised its previous advice against all but essential travel to Kuwait, in a new update to its travel guidance for the country. This move reflects an improved assessment of the risk level associated with traveling to Kuwait, despite ongoing uncertainty stemming from regional tensions.
In an update published yesterday, the ministry stated that “the Foreign Office no longer advises against all but essential travel to Kuwait,” after such a warning had previously been included in its travel advisories for the country.
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Conversely, the UK Foreign Office maintained its warnings regarding security developments in the region, noting that the situation in the Middle East “remains unpredictable,” with risks associated with the possibility of new attacks or unexpected escalation.
It clarified that the United States and Iran announced a memorandum of understanding on June 17 related to the Middle East conflict; however, regional tensions persisted. The ministry pointed to reciprocal strikes and attacks since July 8 at various locations in the region, “including Kuwait,” targeting US military and civilian infrastructure.
The UK Foreign Office emphasized that British citizens in the Middle East should be prepared for the possibility of periodic flight cancellations or airspace closures, as well as potential disruptions to travel movements.
Kuwait International Airport
Regarding travel to or transit through Kuwait, the UK Foreign Office confirmed that Kuwait International Airport is currently operating through Passenger Terminals 4 and 5, which serve Kuwait Airways, Jazeera Airways, and several foreign airlines, while Terminal 1 remains closed.
It noted that flight schedules remain reduced, urging travelers to verify their flight details with airlines before heading to the airport and to follow instructions issued by local authorities.
The UK Foreign Office urged its citizens in the region to continuously monitor their departure plans, ensure the validity of their travel documents, and stay updated on the latest developments regarding airports and airspace, which may be closed with little notice.
It also advised avoiding areas surrounding security and military facilities and complying with local authorities’ instructions in the event of directives to shelter in place or remain indoors.
The UK Foreign Office’s update comes as Kuwait continues to strengthen its security measures and manage the repercussions of regional tensions. The downgrade of the UK’s travel warning for Kuwait serves as a significant indicator for British travel flows to the country, particularly given that Kuwait International Airport remains operational, albeit with reduced flight schedules.
