Ahmed Soliman
The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) does not advise against travel to the United Arab Emirates. The advisory indicates that 'See travel advice' is the current status. Key highlights include: 1) Terrorism: FCDO warns that terrorists are 'likely' to try to carry out attacks in the UAE, which could be indiscriminate and target places frequented by foreigners. 2) Regional Tensions: Due to the conflict in the region, there is a possibility of increased tensions affecting the UAE. 3) Local Laws: Strict laws exist regarding social media use, photography of certain buildings, and public displays of affection. Alcohol is only permitted in licensed venues. 4) Health: Be aware of high temperatures and the risk of MERS-CoV. 5) Entry: Passports must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry. British citizens can obtain a visitor visa on arrival.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Dubai specifically, is one of the safest and most politically stable environments in the Middle East. It features a very low rate of violent crime and high-quality infrastructure. However, the legal system is strictly enforced with zero tolerance for drug-related offences and specific codes of conduct regarding public behaviour and speech. Regional geopolitical tensions (particularly involving Iran and Yemen-based Houthi rebels) occasionally elevate the theoretical risk of cross-border strikes, though these are rare and mitigated by advanced UAE defence systems. Internal security is pervasive and highly effective.
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Increased crowds in shopping malls and entertainment venues; high demand for indoor attractions.
Risk implication: Low. Primarily impacts logistics and transport due to increased domestic tourism during the shopping festival.
Daytime temperatures regularly exceeding 40°C (104°F) with high humidity.
Risk implication: Moderate health risk. Risk of heatstroke and dehydration for those outdoors; potential for transport delays due to heat-related infrastructure strain.
Ahmed Soliman is a Senior Research Fellow focused on regional geopolitics. While his public profile is low, the subject matter (Ethiopia Scenarios) and the host (DP World) are politically significant. The UAE maintains close surveillance of academic and political discourse; while this trip is professional and sanctioned, he should avoid public criticism of the UAE government or its allies. Given the Arabic name, there is a possibility of being perceived as a dual national or of regional origin, which occasionally leads to more detailed questioning at immigration, though this is rarely problematic for professional travellers. As a male traveller, he faces minimal gender-based restrictions, but must adhere to local dress codes (modest attire in public) and avoid any behaviour that could be interpreted as public indecency under UAE law.
Legal and Cultural Environment
Strict enforcement of local laws regarding public behaviour, social media content, and 'zero tolerance' for drugs (including some prescription medications).
Extreme Weather
Intense heat in June/July poses a significant physical risk if outdoor activity is not strictly limited.
Regional Geopolitics
Theoretical risk of regional spillover from conflicts in the Middle East, though Dubai is heavily protected.
- 1.Ensure all prescription medications are accompanied by a doctor's note and are not on the UAE's prohibited list.
- 2.Limit outdoor exposure between 10:00 and 17:00 due to extreme heat.
- 3.Download the AIG MyLifeline app and register the trip before departure.
- 4.Use reputable transport such as registered RTA taxis, Uber, or Careem; avoid unofficial 'gypsy' taxis.
- 5.Refrain from taking photographs of government buildings, military installations, or industrial sites (including DP World ports unless explicitly permitted).
- 6.Maintain a low profile on social media regarding political discussions while in-country.
- 7.Store the AIG 24/7 assistance number (+44 1273 065 120) in your phone.
UKHSA current guidance for UAE does not require isolation upon return.
The traveller will stay at the Cheval Maison Expo City Hotel, a modern facility with high-standard perimeter security and access control. Meetings are at Expo City/DP World sites, which are highly regulated zones with professional security screenings. Travel should be door-to-door via pre-booked transport.
Evacuation would be triggered by a significant escalation in regional conflict (e.g., missile strikes) or civil unrest. Decisions will be made by the Chatham House Chief Operating Officer in consultation with AIG Crisis Management and the British Embassy in Dubai.
If Dubai International (DXB) is unavailable, the primary alternative is Al Maktoum International (DWC). Relocation by land to Abu Dhabi (AUH) for alternative flights is the most viable secondary option.
In the event of a sudden security lockdown, the Cheval Maison Expo City is a suitable hibernation location. It has independent power/water and on-site dining. The traveller should maintain a 48-hour supply of water and snacks in the room.
Daily check-in via WhatsApp group with the Africa Programme Manager at 09:00 UK time. Additional check-ins: 1) Upon arrival at DXB airport. 2) Upon arrival at the hotel on June 28. 3) Final check-in at DXB prior to departure on July 1.
If a check-in is missed by 1 hour, the Manager will attempt to contact the traveller via phone and hotel. If no contact after 2 hours, the Manager will notify the Chatham House Director of Operations and AIG MyLifeline. In case of emergency, the traveller must contact AIG first.
AIG MyLifeline: +44 1273 065 120; FCDO Consular (Dubai): +971 4 309 4444; FCDO Emergency (London): +44 20 7008 5000; Cheval Maison Expo City: +971 4 606 6949.
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Required training for low risk destinations: 3 course(s)
Basic Online Training
Required for all travel
Risk Awareness Training
Required for all travel
First Aid Training
Required for all travel
Risk Assessment
Pending
Insurance Approval
Pending
Trip Approval
Pending
Personal Travel Safety Brief
PDF document with traveller safety guidance
Comprehensive Risk Assessment Report
Full security analysis and risk assessment
Security Plan (Annex A)
Security approach, evacuation & hibernation protocols
Communications Plan (Annex B)
Check-in protocol, escalation & contact numbers