Page updated 12 March 2026
Middle East security situation
Security
Middle East
Page updated 12 March 2026
Military strikes continue to impact several countries across the Middle East. Conflict could escalate at any time, cutting off available departure routes without warning.
New Zealanders who can, should immediately leave the region on commercial flights or by road now. This is fastest way to safety.
Commercial flights are operating out of Israel, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.
The Government continues to work around the clock to assist New Zealanders in the region. A response team is in the region to support this effort.
Civilian infrastructure across multiple Middle Eastern territories continues to be targeted. This includes hotels, roads, bridges, water infrastructure and airports. There is also a high 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, we recognise it is not currently possible depart. You should shelter in place if you are concerned about your safety.
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. If you are travelling at short notice and your passport has expired, our Emergency Contact Centre may be able to help if you are flying directly to New Zealand, +64 99 20 20.
All airlines and airports continue to stress that passengers should not proceed to the airport unless their airline has confirmed their specific flight is operating.
Stay in contact with family and friends and keep them up-to-date on your location and plans.
Flights from the United Arab Emirates to New Zealand are now available to be booked directly with Emirates online at www.emirates.com. Etihad (www.etihad.com) is also operating services to Australia.
If you had earlier flights departing the United Arab Emirates which were cancelled due to the conflict, you should contact your airline or travel insurer for further information about refund opportunities or future bookings.
Airline call volumes are very high, so expect delays. Please stay on the line until answered and use official channels like chat or call centres, not social media.
If you had previously booked through a travel agent, you should contact them.
Qatar Airways (www.qatarairways.com) is operating some services to Australia, with connecting services to New Zealand.
Qatar Airways has announced that passengers with a confirmed booking with a travel date between 28 February and 22 March 2026 are eligible for two complimentary date changes of up to 14 days from your original travel date, or a refund of the unused ticket. If these offers apply to you, contact Qatar Airways (this may take some time given high enquiry volumes).
We advise against travel to almost all countries in the Middle East. If you travel to or through the Middle East, you could become stranded in locations that are the target of military strikes. Airspace, road crossings and borders could close at any moment.
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.
The New Zealand Government has sent consular staff and response teams into the Middle East to support stranded travellers.
In the last week, regular updates on airline services and availability have been sent to New Zealanders that are registered on SafeTravel. New Zealanders in Kuwait and Qatar have been evacuated through assisted departure operations. Support for New Zealanders in Bahrain is also being planned. Embassies and consular officials continue to be in close contact, as communication networks allow, with New Zealanders registered in a number of other countries.
The Ministry’s Emergency Coordination Centre continues to explore all other options for how we can support New Zealanders who have been impacted by this conflict.
New Zealanders that require urgent consular assistance, should contact the New Zealand 24/7 Consular Emergency Line on +64 99 20 20 20.