2nd March 2026
The UK government is preparing for possible evacuations of British citizens from several Middle East countries, but it has not yet begun mass evacuations. Current actions focus on planning, rapid‑deployment teams, and advising citizens to stay in place until safe routes open.
What the UK government is doing
Drawing up evacuation plans
Reports indicate the UK is preparing evacuation routes via Saudi Arabia if regional airspace remains closed. This planning is a contingency measure, not an active evacuation.
Deploying rapid‑response teams
The Foreign Secretary has confirmed that rapid‑deployment teams are being sent to the region to support up to 300,000 British citizens who may need assistance leaving. These teams are coordinating with airlines and local authorities.
Setting up support systems for evacuation
The government is establishing systems to help citizens leave if needed, working closely with the travel industry and preparing for government‑led evacuation options.
Advising citizens to stay where they are
For now, British nationals in affected countries are being told to shelter in place, follow local authority instructions, and monitor Foreign Office travel advice. This applies to people in the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Israel, and the Palestinian territories.
Why evacuation is being considered
Airports across the Gulf have been closed after Iranian retaliatory strikes, grounding thousands of flights.
At least 200,000 British citizens are currently in the region, many stranded in the UAE and Qatar.
The UK is preparing for scenarios where airspace remains closed, requiring land routes or chartered flights via safer countries.
Countries where evacuations are being prepared
1. United Arab Emirates (UAE)
This is the largest concentration of stranded British nationals.
Dubai and Abu Dhabi airports have been hit or closed following Iranian strikes.
Around 50,000-76,000 Brits are believed to be in the UAE, many stuck in airports or hotels.
2. Qatar
Doha has experienced missile interceptions and airport closures.
UK officials are coordinating with airlines and local authorities.
3. Bahrain
Bahrain International Airport has reported damage.
British nationals are being told to register and shelter in place.
4. Kuwait
Kuwait has been targeted by Iranian retaliatory strikes, including airports.
Evacuation routes under consideration include overland travel to Saudi Arabia.
5. Israel
British nationals in Israel are included in the Foreign Office's crisis registration system.
Previous evacuations from Israel were conducted during earlier escalations.
6. Palestinian Territories
Citizens here have been urged to register their presence with the Foreign Office