Israel’s National Security Council (NSC) has intensified its travel advisory for citizens in the United Arab Emirates, warning of increased threats from hostile groups aiming to target Israelis and Jews in the region.
In a statement released by the Prime Minister’s Office on Thursday, the NSC cited credible intelligence suggesting that terror organisations, including Iran-backed groups, Hamas, Hezbollah, and global jihadist elements, are escalating their efforts to attack Israeli interests abroad.
“We are emphasising this travel warning given our understanding that terrorist organisations are increasing their efforts to harm Israel,” the statement read, noting that Jewish holidays and Shabbat may be particular periods of elevated risk.
The advisory did not specify a particular incident but followed heightened tensions in the Middle East after Israel’s recent military operations involving Iran. Security officials fear retaliatory attacks could extend beyond traditional conflict zones, including places considered relatively safe for Israeli nationals.
The United Arab Emirates, which normalised ties with Israel in 2020 through the U.S.-brokered Abraham Accords, has seen a growing presence of Israeli and Jewish communities. That visibility, the NSC warns, may also now bring a greater risk.
There has been no immediate response from the UAE’s foreign ministry regarding the updated travel advisory. The Gulf state has maintained a reputation as one of the safest destinations in the Middle East, with violent crimes remaining rare.
However, safety concerns were underscored in March when a UAE court sentenced three individuals to death for the 2024 murder of an Israeli-Moldovan rabbi in Dubai — a case that shocked both nations.
As Israel faces growing international criticism over the humanitarian situation in Gaza and rising regional instability, its security agencies are urging heightened vigilance among citizens abroad, particularly in countries with strong diplomatic ties.
Reuters/s.s