Page updated 14 May 2026
Middle East security situation
Security
Middle East
Page updated 14 May 2026
A ceasefire between the United States, Israel, and Iran is currently in place. The security situation in the Middle East remains volatile, and renewed conflict could break out at short notice.
If you travel to or through the Middle East, you may not be able to leave if conflict escalates.
Flights can change at short notice. Roads and borders can close. Even if your final destination is not in the Middle East, your travel plans could still be disrupted. That is why we are still advising New Zealanders who are in the region to leave now on a commercial flight, if they can do so safely.
Civilian infrastructure across multiple Middle Eastern territories has been targeted throughout the conflict. This includes hotels, roads, bridges, water infrastructure and airports. There is an increased risk of strikes near government buildings, military sites and facilities, energy infrastructure (including oil production facilities), and US Embassies, Consulates and other locations with US links.
For a number of locations in the Middle East, we recognise it is not currently possible depart. You should shelter in place if you are concerned about your safety, and follow the advice of local authorities at all times.
Stay alert to any possible threats, particularly in public places and at large gatherings. Follow the advice of local authorities at all times, including shelter in place orders.
Monitor official warning systems in your location. If warned of an imminent attack, move to a shelter, ideally underground or close to ground level. If that isn't possible, shelter away from windows, ideally an inner space if you are in high-rise building.
Stay up to date through local and international news.
Update your SafeTravel registration details if your departure date has been delayed, or if you have been able to leave the region.
Ensure your passport is up to date and is valid for more than six months before travelling. Information on how to renew your passport is available from the Department of Internal Affairs.
Stay in contact with family and friends and keep them up to date on your location and plans.
All Middle Eastern airlines continue to make progress to resume to pre-conflict schedules. Airlines are offering flight options to New Zealand, including via Australia.
Extra time should be allowed for at airports as Hajj season commences. If you are travelling to Hajj, read our travel advice.
For the most up to date and reliable flight information please check your airline’s website. Please check your flight’s status and your airline’s website for operational information, before travelling to the airport.
Fuel shortages are affecting global travel. For more information, please see our news item on Travel, fuel supply and security impacts of conflict in the Middle East.
We advise against travel to almost all countries in the Middle East.
At the moment we advise that New Zealanders do not travel (Level 4 of 4) to most countries in the region, due to the deteriorating security situation in the Middle East and the current risk posed by military strikes and armed conflict. This includes stop overs at Dubai International Airport, Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi, or Hamad International Airport in Doha.
The following countries carry our highest advisory level – do not travel:
We advise against all non-essential travel to the following locations:
These advisories are likely to impact travel insurance coverage. If you still plan to travel, you should discuss this with your insurer.
Embassies and consular officials continue to be in contact, as communication networks allow, with New Zealanders registered as being in the Middle East.
If you require urgent consular assistance, please call the 24/7 consular emergency line on +64 99 20 20 20