Middle East: Latest Situation Update

The situation 

Regional tensions remain elevated following recent military activity involving the United States and Iran. While immigration processing continues largely as normal across most jurisdictions, travel disruptions and limited impacts on consular services continue in parts of the region.  

A closer look 

• • Air travel. Most Gulf airports remain operational, and regional airspace is generally open. However, temporary airspace closures during periods of military activity continue to cause intermittent flight disruptions, particularly in Bahrain, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait and, to a lesser extent, Qatar. Airlines continue to adjust schedules in response to evolving security conditions, and travelers should expect short-notice changes. In Saudi Arabia, Abha International Airport has suspended international flights to and from the United Arab Emirates, while domestic services continue to operate. 
  • Travel guidance. Several governments, including the United States, continue to advise their citizens to exercise heightened caution, monitor official travel and security updates, including U.S. embassy and consular alerts where applicable, and prepare for potential travel disruptions. The U.S. State Department also advises U.S. citizens outside the Middle East to reconsider travel to and through the region. 
  • Land borders. Land border crossings across the region generally remain operational. However, security conditions in certain border areas remain subject to change, particularly near areas of active military operations.  
  • Immigration and consular services. Immigration processing is largely proceeding as normal across Gulf Cooperation Council member states and the wider Middle East. Operational impacts remain limited, with the primary disruptions affecting consular services, particularly at certain U.S. diplomatic missions where routine operations have been reduced or temporarily suspended, including the U.S. embassies in Kuwait and Iraq.  

Impact 

• • Travelers and workers are encouraged to register with the consulates of their country of citizenship, including consulates of any second citizenship they may hold.   
  • Employees are advised to check with their internal travel desk/global mobility team/human resources for company instructions or guidance. 
  • Organizations should continue reviewing employee travel plans, business continuity arrangements and supply chain risks as the regional security situation evolves. 
  • Fragomen’s Middle East and global teams are monitoring airspace changes and airline advisories. For the latest updates, please check airline websites. 
  • Our microsite includes links to government registration portals. U.S. citizens should register directly with the State Department.     
     

Looking ahead 

The situation is fluid and changing quickly. We will continue updating our microsite as new information becomes available and will work closely with clients to provide support where appropriate. 

Fragomen is actively monitoring developments and will continue to provide updates as the situation evolves. We are available to discuss tailored scenario planning based on your workforce footprint. 

Airspace closures and government operations, including consular post operations, are continuing to be disrupted – we are monitoring the situation here. This alert is provided for informational purposes only. Please contact your Fragomen immigration professional or click here to reach us if you have any questions.