Travel alert

Middle East Travel Alerts

Iran Exempts Ships From China, India, Iraq, and Qatar From Hormuz Restrictions

Iran has exempted commercial vessels from China, India, Iraq, and Qatar from transit restrictions in the Strait of Hormuz, according to a senior Iranian lawmaker. Amir Hayat Moghadam stated that the exemptions were granted based on mutual interests and strategic considerations. Tehran is charging transit fees to Chinese and Indian vessels, while Qatari ships are allowed to transit without payment.

Middle East Travel Alerts

Turkish Airspace and Istanbul Airports Remain Fully Open for Commercial Flights

Turkish airspace and Istanbul’s major airports, Istanbul Airport and Sabiha Gökçen Airport, remain open and fully operational, with no active conflict-zone bulletins issued for Türkiye by EASA. While Turkish Airlines, Pegasus, and AJet maintain regular domestic and international services, routes extending into neighboring Middle Eastern airspace face potential rerouting or adjustments. Türkiye's state airports authority DHMI recorded over 1.1 million flights and 112 million passengers in Turkish airspace during the first half of 2026.

Middle East Travel Alerts

US Raises Bahrain Travel Advisory to Level 3 Reconsider Travel

The United States has updated its travel advisory for Bahrain to Level 3, urging citizens to reconsider travel. The advisory cites elevated security concerns stemming from terrorism and regional armed conflict. The notice highlights potential risks to transportation hubs, tourist sites, and critical infrastructure.

Middle East Travel Alerts

SunExpress Mandates Physical Boarding Passes for Damascus Flights from November 12

SunExpress announced updated airport procedures for passengers traveling to Damascus, Syria, effective November 12. All passengers, including digital pass holders, must collect a physical boarding pass at airport counters. Check-in desks at Damascus International Airport will open three hours prior to departure due to heightened security checks.