The security situation in the region remains unpredictable and could deteriorate with little or no warning. Conflicts in the Middle East or Gulf region could affect the UAE.

There's an increased threat of terrorism in the UAE, including threats against military bases. Maintain a high level of security awareness.

Rebel groups in Yemen have previously targeted the UAE and neighbouring countries with uncrewed aerial systems including drones and missiles. 

• On 24 and 31 January 2022, UAE air defence forces intercepted and destroyed three ballistic missiles launched from Yemen, with no casualties.
• On 17 January 2022, a device hit three fuel tankers in an industrial area of Abu Dhabi, resulting in explosions which killed three people and injured several others. 

Further attacks are possible.

Be alert and monitor local and international media. In the event of a security incident, follow the advice of local authorities.

Demonstrations in the UAE are rare and must be authorised by the government. Wearing clothing reminiscent of a political cause may be seen as a form of protest. Australians have been detained for wearing the Palestinian Keffiyeh (head scarf) and rainbow colours. 

To protect yourself in case of unrest:

• avoid all rallies and protests
• monitor the media for news of possible demonstrations or protests
• be prepared to change your travel plans

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

There's an increased threat of terrorism in the UAE, including threats against military bases. Maintain a high level of security awareness.

Authorities have in the past arrested several alleged terrorists for possibly planning attacks in the UAE.

Several terrorist attacks have happened in the wider Gulf region in recent years.

Attacks could occur at any time and could target:

• places of worship
• military sites
• hotels
• transport hubs
• shopping malls and markets
• major events
• residential compounds
• tourist locations
• other locations visited by foreigners

More information:

• Terrorist threats

The UAE has a low crime rate.

Pickpocketing and bag snatching occurs but is rare.

Incidents of drink spiking are reported.

Physical and verbal harassment and sexual assaults occur. Avoid walking alone after dark in isolated places, including pedestrian underpasses.

If you're a victim of sexual assault, find out about support services as quickly as possible from the:

• Australian Embassy and Consulate-General in the UAE
• Consular Emergency Centre in Canberra

Consular officers can't provide legal or medical advice. However, they can provide lists of English-speaking service providers who may be able to help.

UAE law places a high burden of proof on the victim. Victims of sexual assault will need to demonstrate that the sexual relations were not consensual, especially when the victim had consumed alcohol or where the alleged attacker was known to the victim. 

Kidnapping can happen anywhere, anytime, including in destinations that are typically at lower risk. 

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers.

More information:

• Kidnapping

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth.

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.

More information:

• Cyber security when travelling overseas

At the beach, be aware of strong currents and obey warning signs.

Tours and adventure activities

Transport and tour operators don't always follow safety and maintenance standards. This includes adventure activities.

If you plan to do a tour or adventure activity:

• check if your travel insurance policy covers it
• ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
• always use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts

If proper safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

Transport and tour operators don't always follow safety and maintenance standards. This includes adventure activities.

If you plan to do a tour or adventure activity:

• check if your travel insurance policy covers it
• ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
• always use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts

If proper safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

The UAE experiences extremely high temperatures. The hottest months of the year are June to September. The temperature can exceed 50°C.

In extreme heat, stay out of the sun and drink water to avoid dehydration.

Sandstorms and dust storms often happen.

In winter months, morning fog can significantly reduce visibility. This can cause flight delays and road hazards.

Take extra care if you're driving. Plan your travel in advance and follow the advice of local authorities.

Although they're rare, the UAE can experience severe thunderstorms, strong winds and heavy rain, particularly during spring and autumn.

Flash flooding can cause dangerous driving conditions.

Flash flooding in river canyons (wadis) has caused some deaths in recent years.

In severe weather, stay indoors and avoid driving if possible.

Monitor the media and local government websites, such as:

• the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority 
• the National Center for Meteorology and Seismology

The NCEMA Facebook page  and NCEMA website will be updated during a crisis.

Earth tremors occur in the UAE, particularly following a major earthquake elsewhere in the region.

Access more information about natural disasters from the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System.

If a natural disaster happens, follow the advice of local authorities.