United Arab Emirates

This advice has been reviewed and reissued with amendments to the Summary (consular statistics). The overall level of the advice has not changed.

Travel Summary

• There are confirmed human cases of the H1N1 virus (Swine Flu) in the UAE (source UAE Ministry of Health). You can check for updates on the number of cases and their location through the Ministry of Health website at: www.moh.gov.ae/en . Contrary to recent media reports the UAE Ministry of Health has not introduced a requirement for expats to provide medical reports when re-entering the country after the summer break. The World Health Organisation (WHO) Pandemic Threat Alert Phase has been raised to Level 6. The WHO website at: http://www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/en/index.html has further details. You should monitor local media reports for any developments and advice. There is a dedicated Swine Flu page on this website. Guidance on Pandemic Flu can be obtained on the UK Department of Health website at: www.dh.gov.uk .
  
  
• Around 1.1 million British nationals visited the UAE in 2007. (Source: Abu Dhabi and Dubai Immigration Authorities). Most visits are trouble-free. 462 British nationals required consular assistance in the UAE in the period 01 April 2008 – 31 March 2009 for the following types of incident; deaths (77 cases); hospitalisations (31 cases); and dealing with arrests, for a variety of offences (294 cases) many from failing to observe the UAE's zero tolerance policy towards possession and use of illegal drugs. Possession of even the smallest amount of illegal drugs can lead to a minimum four year jail sentence. Care should also be taken about the import of prescription drugs and some over-the-counter drugs. See the Local Laws and Customs section of this advice for more details. During this period assistance was also requested with regard to lost or stolen passports (247 cases).
  
  
• There is a high threat from terrorism. We believe terrorists may be planning to carry out attacks in the UAE. Attacks could be indiscriminate and could happen at any time, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers. You should maintain a high level of security awareness, particularly in public places.
  
  
• Since 1 January 2009, the length of visit visas given on arrival has changed. See the Entry Requirements section of this advice for more details.
  
  
• We strongly recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for the activities you want to undertake. See the General (Insurance) section of this advice and Travel Insurance for more details.
  

Safety and security

Terrorism

There is a high threat from terrorism. We believe terrorists may be planning to carry out attacks in the UAE. Attacks could be indiscriminate and could happen at any time, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers. You should maintain a high level of security awareness, particularly in public places. For more general information see Terrorism Abroad.

Crime

Over a million British visitors travelled to the UAE in 2007 and more than 100,000 British nationals are resident there. The vast majority of visits are trouble-free. Incidents of street crime are rare. Female visitors should take care when walking or travelling alone and are advised to use a reputable taxi company, particularly at night.

In 2007 our Consular staff helped a number of British nationals who were the victim of a serious sexual offence in the UAE.For more general information see Victims of Crime Abroad.

Political Situation

United Arab Emirates Country Profile

Developments in Iraq and on the Middle East Peace Process continue to have an impact on local public opinion in the region. You should be aware of local sensitivities on these issues. You should follow news reports and be alert to local and regional developments, which might trigger public disturbances. You should take sensible precautions for your personal safety and avoid public gatherings and demonstrations.

Road Travel

Recent changes to the law now allow British nationals who are in the UAE on a visit visa to drive a car using their British driving licence.. A British national living in the UAE with a residence permit must obtain a UAE driving licence. UAE licences can be obtained from the traffic department by expatriates with valid residency visas.

Excursions to the desert can be dangerous unless undertaken in adequately equipped 4 x 4 vehicles. You should always travel in convoy with other cars, take a supply of water and a mobile telephone and leave travel plans with friends or relatives.

Driving standards are not always as disciplined as in the UK and the rate of traffic accidents is significantly higher. A report released by the World Health Organisation has reported that UAE road users are almost seven times more likely to be killed than their counterparts in the UK. The report shows that the UAE has one of the highest rates of road deaths. The authorities are increasing their efforts to address this and have launched the "Safety Awareness. For the Emirates Campaign". More details can be found at: www.gulftraffic.com/safety.html.

If you have a motor accident, you should ensure you follow the rules of the Emirate you are in. In Abu Dhabi, if no one has been hurt and vehicle damage is minor, drivers should move their vehicles to the side of the road to avoid blocking traffic; otherwise, the vehicles should not be moved. In Dubai, you should only move your vehicle if it is causing an obstruction to other motorists. In the other Emirates, you may only move your car if it is a minor accident and both parties agree on the responsibility for the accident. In all cases, the police must be called, and it is an offence to leave the scene of the accident before the police have arrived. Even minor expressions of 'road rage', such as rude gestures, can attract significant penalties. It is in your own interests to display calm at all times.

Statistics recently released by the UAE Ministry of Interior reported that 2,022 pedestrians were hit by vehicles when crossing the road in 2008. Pedestrians should exercise caution and ensure that they cross roads using only designated pedestrian crossings. While there are zebra crossings similar to UK marked on the roads, vehicles often do not stop for pedestrians waiting at these types of crossings.

Because it is a criminal offence in the UAE to drink and drive, no matter how small the amount, your insurance is likely to be invalidated, leaving you to pay the claims of other parties involved. You also risk imprisonment. If you are in the slightest doubt, take a taxi.

For more general information see Driving Abroad.

Sea Travel

Many areas of the Gulf are highly sensitive, including near maritime boundaries and the islands of Abu Musa and the Tunbs in the southern Gulf. Vessels entering these areas have been detained and inspected; and there have been occasional arrests. Mariners should make careful enquiries before entering these waters or considering visiting ports.

On 30 March 2006, a Dhow capsized in Bahrain. There were 58 fatalities, including 12 British nationals. You should exercise care when travelling by Dhow, as the safety of these vessels may not be up to UK standards. You should also ensure that life jackets are available.

For more general information see River and Sea Safety.

Local laws and customs

In 2009, the holy month of Ramadan is expected to start around 20/21 August and to end around 28 days later (precise timings will depend on sighting of the new moon). Ramadan is an important time for all Muslims. Fasting during Ramadan is one of the "Five Pillars of Islam" and observant Muslims not only abstain from food, drinking and smoking from dawn to dusk, but in general practise restraint from all activities or behaviours that are not compatible with Islamic values. Muslims are instructed to behave more patiently and tolerantly than usual and more time is spent on religious instruction and reflection.

Ramadan also has implications for non-Muslims in the UAE. You should take care to show respect to those who are fasting and pay particular attention not to offend Islamic values. You should note the following:

• Do not eat, drink or smoke in public view during daytime (including in your car). This is considered highly disrespectful and even sips of water should be taken discreetly. Pregnant and nursing women, and young children are exempt from this provision, but discretion should be exercised.
• Be careful about your attire during Ramadan. Skimpy clothes should not be worn at any time in the UAE, but standards may be policed even more carefully than usual.
• Many eating and drinking establishments will be close during daylight hours. Others will be screened from public view. Please plan accordingly.
• Driving may be more erratic than usual, particularly during the late afternoon and early evening.
  

Local laws reflect the fact that the UAE is a Muslim country. You should respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions at all times and be aware of your actions to ensure that they do not offend other cultures or religious beliefs.

Women should dress in a modest way, particularly in Sharjah and Ajman Emirates where Islamic law is rigorously enforced. Clothes should cover the tops of the arms and legs, and underwear should not be visible.

Public displays of affection are frowned upon, and there have been several arrests for kissing in public. Sex outside of marriage is illegal, and problems will be encountered if an unmarried woman gives birth in the UAE. These problems can range from a refusal to issue a birth certificate to arrest and imprisonment. A marriage certificate has to be provided to the UAE authorities to obtain a birth certificate. Cohabitation, adultery and homosexual behaviour are also illegal.

Swearing or making rude gestures is considered an obscene act and offenders can be prosecuted. It has been known for offenders to receive a six-month jail sentence for such an act. Particular caution should be exercised when dealing with the police and other officials.

You should exercise the same caution as you would in the UK in not accepting lifts from strangers and in only using licensed taxis or other recognised forms of public transport. In Abu Dhabi, it is advisable to avoid the gold, green and white street taxis, which can be badly maintained and erratically driven.

Residents can obtain liquor licences to consume alcohol in private homes. These licences only permit the holder to purchase or consume alcohol in the Emirate that issued the licence e.g. a permit issued in Abu Dhabi is not valid in Dubai. Alcoholic drinks are served in licensed hotels and clubs. But it is a punishable offence to drink or to be drunk in public. The legal age for consumption of alcohol is 18 in Abu Dhabi, although a Ministry of Tourism by-law only allows hotels to serve alcohol to over 21s, and 21 in Dubai and the Northern Emirates, except Sharjah where any alcohol consumption is illegal.

It is an offence in the UAE to drink and drive (no matter how small the amount). There is zero tolerance policy for drinking and driving, and the penalties can be severe.

The importation of narcotics, pork products and pornographic books and material is forbidden. Videos, books and magazines are subject to scrutiny and may be censored.

The penalties for drug trafficking, smuggling and possession, of even residual amounts, of drugs are severe. The possession and/or import of even the smallest amount of drugs can result in a minimum prison sentence of four years. The presence of drugs in the blood stream is counted as possession.

Some prescribed and over the counter medicines that are available in the UK are considered to be controlled substances in the UAE. Any such medication is not allowed into the UAE without prior permission from the UAE Ministry of Health. If a passenger arrives in the UAE without prior approval and the required documentation, the medication will not be allowed into the UAE and the person may be subject to prosecution under the laws of the UAE.

Under FAQ's on the English pages of the UAE Health Ministry's website (http://www.moh.gov.ae/en/default.aspx ) it says: " Individuals may bring medicine in to the country for their personal use. Up to three months supply of a prescription item can be brought in to the country by a visitor and 12-months supply by a resident if they can produce a doctor's letter or a copy of the original prescription. Narcotic items should not be brought in to the country. In exceptional cases they can be brought in to the country but only with prior permission from the director of medicine and pharmacy control who will assess the individual case. These guidelines relate to medicines brought in by an individual through an airport or border crossing and medicines arriving by post."

The Embassy therefore recommends that you contact the Ministry of Health Drug Control Department (DCD) to check whether your medication is on the controlled list and as such requires prior permission for importation. The Customer Service Centre of the DCD can be contacted by e-mailing drugcl.csc@moh.gov.ae, by telephone on (00) 971 2 611 7240 or by fax (00) 971 2 632 7644.

The Embassy is unable to make these enquiries on your behalf.

If you want to buy property in the UAE, you should, as in the UK, seek appropriate professional advice. A list of lawyers for Abu Dhabi and Dubai can be found on our website, www.ukinuae.fco.gov.uk.

Fraud, including bouncing cheques and the non-payment of bills (including hotel bills), is regarded seriously in the UAE and can often result in imprisonment and/or a fine. Bail is generally not available to non-residents of the UAE who are arrested for crimes involving fraud. Convicted debtors will not generally be released from jail until the debt is paid or waived.

Photography of certain government buildings and military installations is not permitted. You should not photograph people without their permission.

For more general information for different types of travellers see Your Trip.

Entry requirements

Visas

British citizens do not require a visa before their arrival in the UAE. British citizens will be given a 30 day visa on arrival. This visa can be extended for a further 30 days in the Emirate in which you arrived. Once the second 30 day period has expired, you will need to leave the country. If you do not pay the 30 day extension fee you will be liable to a fine. In Abu Dhabi, if you are over 40 and intend to apply for an extension you will be required to purchase local health insurance for the extra month before the visa extension will be granted. If you wish to stay in the UAE for longer than 60 days, you can apply for the appropriate visa at the nearest UAE Consulate before travelling.

British nationals do not need to be out of the UAE for any period of time before re-entering but Immigration Officials can refuse immediate re-entry if they are not satisfied that the person wishing to re-enter is a genuine visitor. You can get further information from the following:

• Dubai: Naturalisation and Residency Department – Dubai or Immigration tel no: +971 4 398 0000.
• Abu Dhabi: UAE Federal E-Government Portal or telephone 600522222.

Please note: the above applies to British Citizens only. If you hold any other type of British nationality such as British Overseas Citizen or British National (Overseas), you will need to arrange a visa before you arrive in the UAE. Contact the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates in London.

British citizens are advised to cancel their work visa before permanently leaving the country. If you do not do this, you will be at risk of being reported as an absconder and could be arrested if you return to the UAE - even if you are in transit to another country. Failure to repay debts or resolve any outstanding cases against you may also result in you being arrested on return to the UAE. If you have any doubt about your status on returning to the country we recommend you seek advice from a local lawyer (you can get a list of local lawyers from the Embassy's website: www.ukinuae.fco.gov.uk).

Residence Permits/Visas for Abu Dhabi

The Abu Dhabi authorities have recently introduced a new law stating that if a husband wishes to sponsor his wife and his wife holds different nationality to him then his wife must have permanent residence in the husband’s home country. This means that if a British man wishes to sponsor his wife and his wife holds a non-EU passport his wife must have Indefinite Leave to Remain in the UK.

Passport validity

If you are visiting the UAE your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the end of your intended stay. If you hold a residence permit, your passport must be valid for at least three months in order to travel in and out of the country.

Travelling with children

Single parents or other adults travelling alone with children should be aware that some countries require documentary evidence of parental responsibility before allowing lone parents to enter the country or, in some cases, before permitting the children to leave the country. In the UAE this may be required when obtaining a residence visa. For further information on exactly what will be required at immigration please contact the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates in London.

Health

There are confirmed human cases of the H1N1 virus (Swine Flu) in the UAE (source UAE Ministry of Health). You can check for updates on the number of cases and their location through the Ministry of Health website at: www.moh.gov.ae/en. The World Health Organisation (WHO) Pandemic Threat Alert Phase has been raised to Level 5. The WHO website at: http://www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/en/index.html has further details. You should monitor local media reports for any developments and advice. There is a dedicated Swine Flu page on this website. Guidance on Pandemic Flu can be obtained on the UK Department of Health website at: www.dh.gov.uk.

The National Committee for Combating Swine Flu is responsible for the UAE's response to the current situation. They work closely with the Ministry of Health and other interested bodies.

The Ministry of Health have advised that the UAE has adequate stocks of Tamiflu. Tamiflu can be bought locally at pharmacies.

Contrary to recent media reports the UAE Ministry of Health has not introduced a requirement for expats to provide medical reports when re-entering the country after the summer break. However, recent statements suggest that if a passenger appears to be suffering from flu-like symptoms, presenting a medical certificate which states what illness they are suffering from and the medications prescribed will help speed up airport procedures.

You should be aware that a new Health Insurance law has been implemented and affects all travellers to Abu Dhabi. You should also be aware that if you require medical treatment you will have to cover the cost of any medical fees incurred.

Healthcare facilities in the UAE are generally comparable with those of the UK, but visitors may be prevented from using them without travel insurance or without the means to settle any charges incurred themselves. For more information on carrying UK medicines in the UAE, please see the Local Laws and Customs section of this advice.

You should exercise normal precautions to avoid exposure to HIV/AIDS. For more general information on how to do this see HIV and AIDS.

You should seek medical advice before travelling to the UAE and ensure that all appropriate vaccinations are up-to-date. For further information on vaccination requirements, health outbreaks and general disease protection and prevention you should visit the websites of NaTHNaC and NHS Scotland's Fit For Travel or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.

For more general health information see Travel Health.

General

Insurance

We recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before arriving in the UAE. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for the activities you want to undertake.

If things do go wrong when you are overseas then this is How We Can Help.

Registration

Register with our LOCATE service to tell us when and where you are travelling abroad or where you live abroad so our consular and crisis staff can provide better assistance to you in an emergency. More information about registering with LOCATE can be found here and the website for the British Embassies in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, www.ukinuae.fco.gov.uk/en.

Tunisia travel advice

This advice has been reviewed and reissued with amendments to the Summary (consular assistance figures). The overall level of the advice has not changed.


Travel Summary

* There are confirmed human cases of A (H1N1) Swine Flu in Tunisia (source: Tunisian Public Health Ministry). Since 1 May 2009, the Tunisian authorities have been screening all arrivals at Tunisian airports using temperature-seeking cameras. You should monitor local media reports and the British Embassy in Tunisia website (http://ukintunisia.fco.gov.uk/en) for any further developments and advice. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has raised its Pandemic Threat Alert Phase to Level 6. The WHO website at http://www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/en/index.html has further details. Check Swine Flu for further information and the Health section of this advice for more details.

* There is a general threat from terrorism in Tunisia. Attacks cannot be ruled out and could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by British expatriates and foreign travellers. See the Terrorism section of this advice for more details.

* You are advised to use and be accompanied by a reputable tour operator or an approved local guide if you plan travel in the southern border areas with Algeria. Tourists have to obtain permission from the Tunisian authorities to enter certain desert areas bordering Algeria and southern military zones. Given the threat of kidnap in the southern border regions you should follow the advice of the Tunisian authorities on travel in these regions. See Travel Advice: Algeria for more details.

* Most visits are trouble-free. 40 British nationals required consular assistance in Tunisia in the period 01 April 2008 – 31 March 2009 for the following types of incident; deaths (14 cases); hospitalisations (12 cases); and arrests, for a variety of offences (5 cases). During this period assistance was also requested with regard to lost or stolen passports (25 cases). You should watch out for petty criminals such as pickpockets, and bag snatchers, particularly in crowded market places.

* We recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake. See the General (Insurance) section of this advice and Travel Insurance for more details.

Safety and security

Terrorism

There is a general threat from terrorism in Tunisia. Attacks cannot be ruled out and could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by British expatriates and foreign travellers. You are advised to maintain a high level of vigilance with regard to your personal security whilst you are in Tunisia. For more general information see Terrorism Abroad.

There is a risk of kidnap in Tunisia from terrorists operating in the area of the southern Tunisia/Algeria border, and we advise caution when travelling in such areas. Tourists must seek permission from the Tunisian authorities to enter certain desert areas bordering Algeria and the southern military zones and must travel with licensed guides and/or military escorts. We advise that such trips are undertaken with a reputable tour company. On 22 February 2008, two Austrian tourists were kidnapped in the south of Tunisia, close to the border with Algeria. The tourists were released in October 2008.

You should be aware that the long standing policy of the British Government is not to make substantive concessions to hostage takers. The British Government considers that paying ransoms and releasing prisoners increases the risk of further hostage taking.

The Tunisian authorities announced that they had disrupted a terrorist group on 3 January 2007, in the area of Grombalia (south of Tunis), 12 of the group were killed and 15 arrested. There have been some indications that the group may have been intending to attack tourist hotels.

There have been no bomb attacks in Tunisia since April 2002, when a group of German tourists died in a terrorist suicide car bomb attack outside a synagogue on the island of Djerba, which resulted in 19 deaths. An Al-Qa’ida spokesman later acknowledged responsibility for the attack.

Crime

There is little violent crime in Tunisia but you should watch out for petty criminals such as pickpockets, particularly in crowded market places.

There are periodically incidents of bag snatching in tourist areas and you are advised to ensure that bags are kept close to your person at all times. Where possible, you should avoid carrying all your important documents, money etc in the same bag. You should take sensible precautions to protect yourself and your belongings - as you would do in the UK.

For more general information see Victims of Crime Abroad.

Political Situation

Tunisia Country Profile

You should be aware of the impact that the situation in Iraq, as well as the violence between the Israelis and Palestinians, has across the Arab world and the potential risk of public disturbance in response.

You should follow news reports and be alert to developments that might trigger public disturbances. You should avoid political gatherings and demonstrations.

Local Travel

You are advised to travel with a reputable tour operator or an approved local guide if you plan to travel in the southern border areas with Algeria. Tourists have to obtain permission from the Tunisian authorities to enter certain desert areas on the borders with Algeria and the southern military zones and must travel with licensed guides and/or military escorts – you should seek advice from a reputable agent. See Travel Advice: Algeria for more details.

Road Travel

Driving in Tunisia is more erratic than in Europe. There is little lane discipline and pedestrian crossings are ignored. You should take particular care when crossing roads, even where there is a signal allowing you to do so. Driving tends to be fast, even in towns.

Roads are of a reasonable standard although large pot-holes can appear quickly following heavy rain. There are three motorways in Tunisia, running from Tunis to Bizerte in the north, to Sousse on the coast and west to Beja.

For more general information see Driving Abroad.

Air Travel

The EU has published a list of air carriers that are subject to an operating ban or restrictions within the community. You should check the following link to see whether this will affect your travel - European Commission Transport - Air.

For more general information see Airline Security.

Rail Travel

Rail travel is generally considered safe, but you should ensure that you remain vigilant against petty criminals at all times.
Local laws and customs

Local laws reflect the fact that Tunisia is an Islamic country. You should respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions at all times and be aware of your actions to ensure that they do not offend other cultures or religious beliefs, especially during the holy month of Ramadan or if you intend to visit religious areas. For more general information see Travelling During Ramadan.

In the coastal holiday resorts and main cities, the dress code is very much like any European city or tourist areas. If visiting religious sites or more remote areas of Tunisia, you should dress more modestly and avoid any articles of clothing which may cause offence. Topless sunbathing on beaches may cause offence.

Possession, use and trafficking of controlled drugs are all serious criminal offences in Tunisia. The possession of even a small amount of 'soft' drugs could result in a prison term.

If you have any concerns about taking medication with you to Tunisia, you should contact the {InternalLink:4}, for further information. Additionally in the case of prescription medication, we recommend that you carry a note from your GP confirming that the medication has been prescribed for an existing condition.

You should also be aware that it is not permitted to remove antiquities from Tunisia without first obtaining permission from Customs authorities. Failure to do so could result in lengthy delays on departure, fines and/or imprisonment.

Only married couples are permitted to cohabit in Tunisia. Homosexuality is illegal.

You should avoid taking any photographs near sensitive political or military sites.

Tunisian family law is very different from UK law and particular caution is needed when, for example, child custody becomes an issue.

For more general information for different types of travellers see Your Trip.

Entry requirements

Visas

British passport holders do not require visas for a stay of three months or less. On arrival, security checks are sometimes run on British passport holders who are not UK-born. This can take a few hours and such visitors are advised to be patient until clearance is given. There is unlikely to be a similar checking process or delay on departure.

Passport validity

You should ensure that your passport has at least six months validity before you travel to Tunisia.

Currency declarations

Tunisian regulations require you to declare on entry any large amounts of money being brought in. You will also be asked to declare if you expect to have more than £500 on you when you leave. The export of Tunisian dinars is expressly prohibited. You could be required to show the currency declaration on departure.

Travelling with children

Single parents or other adults travelling alone with children should be aware that some countries require documentary evidence of parental responsibility before allowing lone parents to enter the country or, in some cases, before permitting the children to leave the country. For further information on exactly what will be required at immigration please contact the Embassy of Tunisia in London.

Dual Nationals

Dual nationals should enter and leave Tunisia on their Tunisian passports.
Health

There are confirmed human cases of A (H1N1) Swine Flu in Tunisia (source: Tunisian Public Health Ministry). Since 1 May 2009, the Tunisian authorities have been screening all arrivals at Tunisian airports using temperature-seeking cameras. You should monitor local media reports and the British Embassy in Tunisia website (http://ukintunisia.fco.gov.uk/en) for any further developments and advice. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has raised its Pandemic Threat Alert Phase to Level 6. The WHO website at http://www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/en/index.html has further details. You should monitor local media reports for any developments and advice. There is a dedicated Swine Flu page. Guidance on Pandemic Flu can be obtained on the UK Department of Health website at www.dh.gov.uk.

There is no provision for free medical attention for non-Tunisians. All doctors' fees, medication and hospitalisation in private (as opposed to state run) clinics have to be paid for on the spot. These costs can be quite high.

In the 2008 Report on the Global AIDS Epidemic the UNAIDS/WHO Working Group estimated that around 3,600 adults aged 15 or over in Tunisia were living with HIV; the prevalence rate was estimated at around 0.1% of the adult population. This compares to the prevalence rate in adults in the UK of around 0.2%. You should exercise normal precautions to avoid exposure to HIV/AIDS. For more general information on how to do this see HIV and AIDS.

You should seek medical advice before travelling to Tunisia and ensure that all appropriate vaccinations are up-to-date. For further information on vaccination requirements, health outbreaks and general disease protection and prevention you should visit the websites of NaTHNaC and NHS Scotland's Fit For Travel or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.

For more general health information see Travel Health.

General

Insurance

We strongly recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for the activities you want to undertake.

If things do go wrong when you are overseas then this is How We Can Help.

Consular registration

Register with our LOCATE service to tell us when and where you are travelling abroad or where you live abroad so our consular and crisis staff can provide better assistance to you in an emergency. More information about registering with LOCATE can be found here.

Replacing a lost or stolen Passport

The Consular Section at the British Embassy in Tunisia offers a full passport issuing service. If you lose your passport while on holiday, you should immediately report the loss first to the nearest police station, and then to the Consular Section, who will advise on the arrangements for a replacement passport to be issued.

You should carry a copy of your passport for identity and leave the passport itself in a safe place such as a deposit box at your hotel.

Purchasing Property

There have been numerous instances recently where British nationals wishing to buy property in Tunisia have been advised to do so through a Tunisian "friend" on the pretence that it is illegal for foreign nationals to purchase property in Tunisia. If you are considering purchasing property in Tunisia, you should immediately consult a local lawyer who will be best placed to offer advice. Do not make private arrangements, which in themselves may be illegal and may result in large financial loss.

Money

ATMs are widely available in Tunisia. Almost all ATMs will accept Visa cards, and many (most notably Bank of Tunisia and BIAT) will also accept Maestro (Switch) cards for cash withdrawals. Visa and Mastercard are widely acceptable for payment in shops, restaurants and hotels although there are frequent problems in obtaining authorisation for Mastercard purchases.

Syria travel advice

Summary

• Still current at:
  14 January 2016
• Updated:
  21 December 2015
• Latest update: Summary - update on air strikes in Syria

Download map (PDF)

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) advise against all travel to Syria. British nationals in Syria should leave now by any practical means. The FCO is not able to provide consular services, and won’t be able to help your evacuation from the country.
The situation remains extremely volatile and dangerous. There is widespread fighting throughout Syria, including in Damascus and its suburbs. Full scale military operations involving the use of small arms, tanks, artillery and aircraft are ongoing. The Syrian government no longer exercises control of large parts of Syria, notably the north, south and east of the country. Areas of eastern Syria are under the effective control of the Daesh (formerly referred to as ISIL), which is fiercely hostile to the United Kingdom. Beginning on 30 September, Russia has also embarked on a wave of air strikes in Syria backing an offensive launched by troops loyal to the Assad regime. From 3 December, UK has extended British military action against Daesh into Syria.
In Aleppo and elsewhere, the regime has been undertaking an indiscriminate campaign of aerial bombardment since mid-December 2013, using so called ‘barrel’ bombs – huge containers packed with explosives and shards of metal dropped by helicopter – against largely civilian targets. A number of chemical weapons attacks have taken place across Syria, most notably on 21 August 2013, where a major attack took place in the suburbs of Damascus. Latest estimates are of over 250,000 dead, including well over 10,000 children.
Fighting has caused the temporary suspension of commercial flights, closed roads, impeded access to land border crossing points and led to the closure of some border crossings.
There is a high threat from terrorism. There are continued attacks across Syria including in major cities, leaving large numbers of people dead or injured.
There is a very high threat of kidnapping throughout Syria. There have been a number of kidnappings, including of British nationals and other Westerners, including by Daesh (formerly referred to as ISIL).
If you choose to travel to Syria against FCO advice, you should make sure you and your family have valid exit stamps on your travel documents if you need one and take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance.
As a result of the ongoing political and security instability and the implementation of sanctions against some Syrian institutions, financial transactions have become significantly more difficult. See Money.

Safety and security

Civil Unrest/Political Tension

The situation remains extremely volatile and dangerous. There is widespread fighting throughout Syria, including in Damascus and its suburbs. Full scale military operations involving the use of small arms, tanks, artillery and aircraft are ongoing. The Syrian government no longer exercises control of large parts of Syria, notably in the north, south and east of the country. Areas of eastern Syria are under effective control of the Daesh (formerly referred to as ISIL), which is fiercely hostile to the United Kingdom. Russia has also embarked on a wave of air strikes in Syria backing an offensive launched by troops loyal to the Assad regime. From 3 December, UK has extended British military action against Daesh into Syria.
There is a reduced number commercial flights due to the implementation of sanctions, the security situation and the high level of violence. This severely limits options for air travel and seat availability. Fighting in the vicinity of airports has caused the temporary suspension of flights. Road networks have been blocked without warning. Several major highways including Tartous-Latakia, Tartous-Homs, Latakia-Aleppo, Homs-Hama, Homs-Damascus and Damascus-Jordan continue to be intermittently closed. There are security force checkpoints on major road routes.
Fighting and road closures have affected access to some land border crossing points. Some border crossings are in the hands of opposition groups, vulnerable to attack, and/or closed. You should check the status of all routes before travelling. Don’t attempt to enter Iraq via the Syrian border, which is subject to restrictions on both sides.
Be particularly vigilant in public places and keep a low profile. Don’t film or take photographs of public gatherings, military activity or any other sensitive matter.
All foreign journalists entering Syria need special permission from the Syrian authorities. Those journalists and other foreigners in opposition-held areas are vulnerable to mistreatment by the armed groups there. A number of foreign journalists have been killed. Others have been detained by the Syrian security forces or other armed groups during the crisis. The security forces have confiscated phones, cameras and video cameras.
There are severe restrictions on unlicensed political and religious activity in Syria. The Syrian authorities have detained and deported several British nationals for unauthorised activity. Activity in opposition-held areas will also attract attention. If you are deported by the local authorities, you will not be able to return to Syria.

Crime

The escalating conflict has led to a rise in crime in some areas, including violent robbery, carjacking and kidnapping.

Road travel

Road travel remains very dangerous in many parts of the country due to fighting. Driving standards and traffic systems are poor, and the accident rate is high. When there is a car accident with a pedestrian, the car driver is always legally responsible. You should avoid driving at night.

Humanitarian crisis

Humanitarian needs in Syria have increased significantly since the beginning of the crisis with over 13.5 million people in dire need of humanitarian aid and 4.9 million refugees in the region. The ongoing conflict has seriously affected public infrastructure and services. This widespread destruction has led to high unemployment, scarcity/prohibitive cost of food, lack of water, sanitation, health services and fuel.

Travel Summary

• The World Health Organisation (WHO) Pandemic Threat Alert Phase remains at Level 6. The WHO website at http://www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/en/index.html has further details. Check Swine Flu for further information.
  
• There is a general threat from terrorism. Attacks cannot be ruled out and could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers. On 27 September 2008 a car bomb exploded on a main road outside a military facility in Damascus. Seventeen people were killed and many injured.
  
• Developments in the region may trigger public unrest. You should take care to avoid demonstrations, which can turn hostile, and be particularly vigilant in public places.
  
• You should not attempt to enter Iraq via the Syrian border, which is subject to restrictions on both sides.
  
• 28 British nationals required consular assistance in Syria in the period 01 April 2008 – 31 March 2009 for the following types of incident; hospitalisations (3 cases); and arrests, for a variety of offences (10 cases). During this period assistance was also requested with regard to lost or stolen passports (9 cases) and for child abduction cases.
  
• The British Embassy in Damascus offers a full consular service, but by appointment only. See the General (Consular and Public Services) section of this advice, or the British Embassy website for more details.
  
• We recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling to Syria. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake. See the General (Insurance) section of this advice and Travel Insurance for more details.

Safety and security

Terrorism
There is a general threat from terrorism. Attacks cannot be ruled out and could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.

On 27 September a car bomb exploded outside a military facility at the intersection of the Airport Road and Damascus South Circular Road in Damascus. Seventeen people were killed and many injured.

On 12 February 2008 an explosion in a car in the Damascus neighbourhood of Kaffr Sousseh killed one person and injured several others. The target of the attack was Imad Mughniyeh, Head of Lebanese Hizballah's military wing.

You should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could be against civilian targets including places frequented by foreigners.

For more general information see Terrorism Abroad.

Crime
Personal crime levels are low. But care should be taken in the choice of accommodation - reputable hotels are safer than guesthouses. - You should also take care downtown, where there have been cases of pickpocketing. There has been an increase in the number of passports being reported stolen within the Old City you are advised to leave your passport somewhere secure and carry a photocopy with you.

For more general information see Victims of Crime Abroad.

Political Situation

Syria Country Profile

Tensions between Israel, Lebanon and Syria, or between Israelis and Palestinians, or developments in Iraq, can have an effect on public opinion in the whole of the region, including Syria.

You should follow news reports and be alert to regional developments, which might trigger public disturbances.

You should take sensible precautions for your personal safety and avoid public political gatherings and demonstrations, which can turn hostile, and be particularly vigilant in public places.

You should be aware that there are restrictions on unlicensed political and religious activity in Syria. The Syrian authorities have recently detained and deported several British nationals for unauthorised activity. If you are deported by the local authorities, you will not be able to return to Syria.

Local Travel

The situation on the Syria/Iraq border is unclear. Traffic across is restricted to certain categories of individuals (businessmen amongst others, but not tourists). You should not attempt to enter Iraq via Syria.

Road Travel

Buses/coaches are available between the major cities and tourist sites, but you should check timetables on arrival. Taxis are cheap and widely used.

Driving standards and traffic systems are poor and the accident rate is high. Self-drive hire is best left to the experienced. Driving at night outside main cities is unsafe and should be avoided when possible.

For more general information see Driving Abroad.

Local laws and customs

You should respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions at all times and be aware of your actions to ensure that they do not offend other cultures or religious beliefs, especially during the holy month of Ramadan or if you intend to visit religious areas. For more general information see Travelling during Ramadan.

Syria is a multi-faith country with a long history of religious tolerance. Alongside the majority Sunni population, there are large practising Shia, Christian, Druze and Alawite communities, as well as other smaller sects and religions. However, you should be aware of restrictions on unlicensed political and religious activity, particularly political Islam. Please see the Political Situation section for more details.

You should exercise discretion in behaviour and dress, especially when visiting religious sites.

The punishment for possession of drugs is life imprisonment. For drug trafficking, the death penalty applies.

You are advised to carry a photocopy of the information page and the page displaying your visa and entry stamp of your passport, as proof of identity at all times.

Homosexuality is illegal.

Photography near military and many other government installations is prohibited. These zones are not always marked; you should exercise common sense and limit photography to traditional tourist sites.

For more general information for different types of travellers see Your Trip.

Entry requirements

Visas

You require a visa for Syria. Whether or not you have a visa you should be aware that if your passport contains an Israeli stamp or stamps from other countries’ border crossing points with Israel, you will be refused entry to Syria.

If you are planning to add in side-trips to Lebanon or Jordan, you should apply for a double or multiple entry visa for Syria, as these are otherwise difficult to obtain after arrival.

If you intend staying for more than fifteen days you will need to have your visa extended at the immigration office, otherwise you may face difficulties when trying to leave the country. For further information contact the Syrian Embassy in London.

Passport validity

Passports should have a minimum of six months remaining validity on entry.

Travelling with children

Single parents or other adults travelling alone with children should be aware that Syria requires documentary evidence of parental responsibility before allowing lone parents to enter the country or, in some cases, before permitting the children to leave the country.

Health

Medical treatment is inexpensive but standards vary from one hospital to another, although most are well equipped. Doctors are generally well qualified though nursing standards vary. Many medical staff speak French or English.

You should exercise normal precautions to avoid exposure to HIV/AIDS. For more general information on how to do this see HIV and AIDS.

You should seek medical advice before travelling to Syria and ensure that all appropriate vaccinations are up-to-date. For further information on vaccination requirements, health outbreaks and general disease protection and prevention you should visit the websites of NaTHNaC and NHS Scotland's Fit For Travel or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.

For more general health information see Travel Health.

General

Insurance

We recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake. For more general information see Travel Insurance.

If things do go wrong when you are overseas then this is How We Can Help.

Consular registration
Register with our LOCATE service to tell us when and where you are travelling abroad or where you live abroad so our consular and crisis staff can provide better assistance to you in an emergency. More information about registering with LOCATE can be found here.

Consular services

The British Embassy in Damascus operates a full consular service, but by appointment only. The Public Consular Office is only open one day a week. This is due to security constraints at our current location. A new secure Embassy building is currently under construction. We apologise for any inconvenience that this may cause.

The Consular Section is open for telephone and written enquiries 0800-1530 (Sunday-Wednesday) and 0800-1400 (Thursday); we are closed on Fridays and Saturdays. You can contact us directly on +963 (0) 11 339 1541 or +963 (0) 933 315 948 or write to us by post at British Embassy Consular Section, Kotob Building, 11 Mohd Kurd Ali Street, Malki, PO Box 37, Damascus.

Consular appointments

Customers requiring passport or notarial services need to book an appointment before coming to the Embassy; for other services, please speak to the Consular Section. The current waiting time for an appointment is 1-2 weeks. You can either book an appointment through the British Embassy website – http://ukinsyria.fco.gov.uk – or contact the Consular Section directly on +963 (0) 11 339 1541 or +963 (0) 933 315 948.

Consular emergencies

In case of genuine emergency outside of normal working hours, for example the death or detention of a British national, you can contact the Embassy Duty Officer on +963 (0) 933 214 342.

See the British Embassy website for more details.

Money

Cash can be obtained from cash points (ATMs) in Damascus and Aleppo, but not easily elsewhere in Syria Most shops and restaurants do not take any bank cards. Even those that do may not recognise cards issued outside Syria. Travellers’ cheques are not accepted at most banks in Syria. In the rare cases where they are accepted, the handling process is complicated and time-consuming.

It is illegal to change money on the street. You should only change money in recognised exchange shops, banks and hotels.

Saudi Arabia travel advice

This advice has been reviewed and reissued with amendments to the Summary and Security section (clashes on Saudi-Yemen border). The overall level of the advice has changed. We now advise against all but essential travel to areas close to the Saudi-Yemen border in the Jizan, Asir and Najran provinces.

Travel Summary

• There have been clashes with Saudi forces and Yemeni rebels on the Saudi-Yemen border in early November. This comes on the back of the renewed fighting in Northern Yemen between rebels and the Government of Yemen since August 2009. There is a continued risk of clashes. We advise against all but essential travel to areas close to the Saudi-Yemen border in the Jizan, Asir and Najran provinces. Please contact the British Embassy in Riyadh before travelling to these areas. Travellers should exercise caution in all areas close to the Saudi-Yemen border. Please check this advice for further updates.
  
  
• Please note that until Eid, all Muslim visitors travelling to Jeddah and Medina will need to have a valid Hajj visa. Non-Muslim visitors travelling to these destinations may be asked to explain the purpose of your trip or asked to show evidence of appointments before being allowed to board a flight to Jeddah if you are not travelling for the Hajj. Any Muslim visitor arriving in Jeddah or Medina without a valid Hajj visa will be refused entry. This requirement does not apply to other airports or British residents in Saudi Arabia.
  
  
• This year the Saudi authorities have introduced new entry requirements for Hajj pilgrims. If you intend to travel to the Hajj, please see our Hajj-specific advice.
  
  
• There is a continuing high threat of terrorism in Saudi Arabia. We continue to believe that terrorists are planning further attacks, including against Westerners and places associated with Westerners in Saudi Arabia. We believe aviation interests and oil infrastructure remain possible terrorist targets. On 27 August there was an unsuccessful suicide bomb attack against a Saudi Government Minister in Jeddah. Two terrorists were killed, one arrested, and one policeman killed, in an incident at a checkpoint in Jazan on 13 October 2009. The incident took place about 110km north of the Saudi-Yemeni border. The clashes in early November between Saudi Forces and Yemeni rebels took place close to the Saudi-Yemen border, several hundred kilometres from the pilgrimage sites and should not affect travel plans for the Hajj.
  
  
• There are confirmed human cases of A (H1N1) – Swine Flu in Saudi Arabia, including deaths (source: Saudi Arabian Ministry of Health). All passengers arriving in Saudi Arabia will be screened and subject toa temperature check. If you have an elevated temperature you may be tested for H1N1. If tested you will have to wait in the airport for the results and may be subject to lengthy delays. Passengers with negative results will be released. Passengers who test positive will be quarantined at a local hospital There is a dedicated Swine Flu page on the FCO website. Guidance on Pandemic Flu can be obtained on the UK Department of Health website at: www.dh.gov.uk.
  
  
• 52 British nationals required consular assistance in Saudi Arabia in the period 01 April 2008 – 31 March 2009 for the following types of incident; deaths (31 cases); hospitalisations (5 cases); and arrests, for a variety of offences (8 cases). During this period assistance was also requested with regard to lost or stolen passports (58 cases). A significant proportion of requests for consular assistance were received from pilgrims performing Hajj or Umrah, in particular in relation to disputes and dissatisfaction with tour operators. See the Pilgrimage section of this advice for more details.
  
  
• Saudi Arabian Customs officials have authority to screen all electronic devices ( laptops, mobile phones, PDAs etc ) entering or leaving Saudi Arabia. If requested, all passengers will be submitted to a thorough verification and inspection at international airports. Anyone found to be carrying pirated or explicit materials will have their equipment confiscated. Refusal to comply with this rule will result in detention and/or deportation.
  
  
• We recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for the activities you want to undertake. See the General (Insurance) section of this advice and Travel Insurance for more details.

Safety and security

Terrorism/Security

There is a high threat of terrorism in Saudi Arabia. We continue to believe that terrorists are planning further attacks in Saudi Arabia, including against Westerners and places associated with Westerners. We believe aviation interests and oil infrastructure remain a possible terrorist target.

The Saudi security forces continue to take action against terrorist groups which has lead to a number of terrorists being either killed or imprisoned and terrorist activities disrupted.

This success should not give rise to complacency: even though terrorist networks are disrupted we continue to believe that remaining terrorists may resort to opportunistic attacks on western targets.

Terrorist attacks in Saudi Arabia have taken various forms. At their height in 2003 and 2004 they included kidnapping; large-scale truck bombings of residential compounds and Saudi government offices; an attack on the US Consulate in Jeddah; targeted shootings of individuals; small-scale car bombings; parcel bombings; and bombing of shopping areas. In February 2006, terrorists attacked an oil processing centre in Abqaiq, Eastern Province, detonating two car bombs, but were prevented from doing more serious damage; and in February 2007 four French nationals were shot dead in an incident in the vicinity of Medina. On 27 August there was an unsuccessful suicide bomb attack against a Saudi Government Minister in Jeddah. Two terrorists were killed, one arrested, and one policeman killed, in an incident at a checkpoint in Jazan on 13 October 2009. The incident took place about 110km north of the Saudi-Yemeni border.

You should take all necessary steps to protect your safety and should make sure you have confidence in your individual security arrangements. You should maintain a high level of vigilance, particularly in public places. You should take sensible precautions for your personal and vehicle safety. You should avoid any large gatherings or demonstrations.

British residents in Saudi Arabia are given specific guidance by the British Embassy and Consulates, including through Wardens notices.

You should follow news reports and be alert to regional developments. Any increase in regional tension might affect travel advice.

For more general information see Terrorism Abroad.

Security

There have been clashes with Yemeni rebels on the Saudi-Yemen border. Since August 2009 there has been renewed fighting in Northern Yemen between rebels and the Government of Yemen. In early November 2009, Yemeni rebels crossed the border into Saudi territory. There have been reports of a number of casualties, including some civilian fatalities, in resulting clashes between Saudi Forces and the rebels. We advice against all but essential travel to areas close to the Saudi-Yemen border in the Jizan, Asir and Najran provinces. Please contact the British Embassy in Riyadh before travelling to these areas. Travellers should exercise caution in all areas close to the Saudi-Yemen border. Please check this advice for further updates.

Political situation

Saudi Arabia Country Profile

Developments in Iraq and on the Middle East Peace Process continue to have an impact on local public opinion in the region. You should be aware of local sensitivities on these issues. You should follow local news reports and be alert to local and regional developments, which might trigger public disturbances. You should take sensible precautions for your personal safety and avoid public gatherings.

Pilgrimage

The Saudi authorities highly recommend that those who suffer from chronic diseases, such as heart disease, kidney disease, respiratory diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, diabetes and patients with congenital immunodeficiency, HIV, Metabolic Syndrome and pregnant women refrain from performing Hajj or Umrah this year for their own safety. They also highly recommended that those aged under 12 and over 65 years old defer performing Hajj or Umrah for this year. Please note that the advice on the Saudi Arabian Embassy website no longer requires pilgrims to obtain a flu vaccination.

You should be aware that there is a high likelihood of transmission of swine flu in the course of the pilgrimage. Although health care facilities for the Hajj are generally of a high standard, it is possible that, due to the large number of pilgrims, the healthcare available might be less than would normally be expected in the UK for people who are vulnerable to complications.

You should carefully consider the information provided on the website of the Saudi Arabian Embassy in London before travelling and check the Health section below.

Pilgrims travelling to Saudi Arabia through other countries should check for advice on travel restrictions with that relevant embassy in London.

Saudi government regulations stipulate that British pilgrims performing Umrah and Hajj can only travel with UK travel agencies accredited with the Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia. You should confirm the full itinerary for your pilgrimage before departing the UK. If you find yourself in difficulties during your pilgrimage, you or your relatives should contact the British Consulate-General in Jeddah (tel: +966 2 622 5550/5557/5558).

In recent years there have been improvements in the way the Hajj Pilgrimage is organised and the last time deaths and injury were caused as a result of stampede was in 2006. As with any gathering with large numbers of people care should continue to be taken.

There has been an increase in the number of reported cases of pickpocketing and other forms of theft in Mecca, particularly in the region of the Grand Mosque and in Medina. You should take additional care with travel documents, tickets and other valuables while visiting these two areas. We also recommend that you should make a copy of your passport before you travel, and keep it in a safe place.

The Saudi authorities have issued instructions forbidding the taking of photographs (still or video, including mobile telephone photographs) at the Holy Mosque at Makkah or at the Prophet's Mosque at Medina. This restriction also includes the courtyards surrounding these two holy sites. Any violation of these instructions is likely to lead to the confiscation of either film and/or camera.

For more general information see Hajj Pilgrims.

Road Travel

Standards of driving in Saudi Arabia are poor and this combined with large, open and straight roads which allow people to drive fast, results in a high number of serious motor vehicle accidents each year. Care should be taken when travelling by vehicle and seatbelts should be worn at all times. When travelling between cities it is important to be aware of the large distances between urban areas and the fact that it can take emergency services some time to get to any accidents or emergencies.

Crime

The crime rate is low and is not usually a problem for travellers in Saudi Arabia. However, petty crime does occur, especially in crowded areas. Occasionally, British nationals have been the victims of more serious crimes such as assault and robbery, the latest being a British national who was stabbed in Jubail, Eastern Province on 20 November 2006. You should exercise caution when travelling outside urban areas.

For more general information see Victims of Crime Abroad.

Local Travel

Sea Travel

Shipping serving the oil installations should be aware that oil infrastructure remains a possible terrorist target. Shipping must ensure that their SSPs are fully and robustly implemented while operating in the area. All ships are to maintain a high state of vigilance while in Saudi Arabian ports and report anything suspicious to the appropriate authorities.

There have been acts of piracy and armed robbery against ships in and around the Red Sea. Mariners should take appropriate precautions.

Many areas of the Gulf are highly sensitive, including near maritime boundaries and the islands of Abu Musa and the Tunbs in the southern Gulf. Vessels entering these areas have been detained and inspected; and there have been occasional arrests. Mariners should make careful enquiries before entering these waters or considering visiting ports.

For more general information see River and Sea Safety.

Local laws and customs

Saudi Arabia is a Muslim country in which Islamic law is strictly enforced. You should respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions at all times and be aware of your actions to ensure that they do not offend other cultures or religious beliefs, especially during the holy month of Ramadan or if you intend to visit religious areas. For more general information see Travelling during Ramadan.

The public practice of any form of religion other than Islam is not permitted; nor is an intention to convert others.

The Saudi authorities do accept the private practice of religions other than Islam, and you are only allowed to bring a Bible into the country as long as it is for your personal use. However, importing larger quantities can carry severe penalties as it will be viewed that it is your intention to convert others.

Islamic codes of behaviour and dress are also enforced rigorously. You should respect them fully.

Homosexual behaviour and adultery are illegal and can carry the death penalty.

The penalties for the possession of, or trade in, alcohol are severe. Both result in prison sentences. The punishment for importing drugs includes the death penalty. You should not arrive in Saudi Arabia under the influence of alcohol: the consequences could be serious. You should carry with you a doctor’s prescription for any medication you have with you. The importation of pork products is also forbidden.

The possession of pornographic material, or of illustrations of scantily dressed people, especially women, is prohibited.

The Saudi legal system differs in many ways from the UK. Suspects can be held without charge and those detained have in the past not been allowed legal representation. The Saudi authorities have detained witnesses and victims of crimes. If you require consular assistance our staff will seek to visit you as soon as they are aware of the case. However, in some instances they have not been permitted to do so immediately or have had limits applied to access once granted. We have raised our concern about reports of mistreatment of some suspects during their detention.

Photography of government buildings, military installations and palaces is not allowed. You should avoid photographing local people.

It is illegal for women to drive.

Anyone involved in a commercial dispute with a Saudi company or individual may be prevented from leaving the country pending resolution of the dispute.

Passports are often retained by sponsors or government bodies for official purposes. You should carry a photocopy of your passport. Make sure you have included in your passport details of those who should be contacted in an emergency.

It is illegal to hold two passports in Saudi Arabia: second passports will be confiscated by the immigration authorities if they are discovered.

For more general information for different types of travellers see
Your Trip.

Entry requirements

Visas

All visitors, including pilgrims, require a visa to enter Saudi Arabia. These should be applied for through visa agencies accredited to the Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia. Please note that until Eid, all Muslim visitors travelling to Jeddah and Medina will need to have a valid Hajj visa. Non-Muslim visitors travelling to these destinations may be asked to explain the purpose of your trip or asked to show evidence of appointments before being allowed to board a flight to Jeddah if you are not travelling for the Hajj. Any Muslim visitor arriving in Jeddah or Medina without a valid Hajj visa will be refused entry. This requirement does not apply to other airports or British residents in Saudi Arabia.

British residents in Saudi Arabia should remember that they require a valid exit/re-entry permit from the Saudi Ministry of Interior in order to leave the country.

On occasion, Saudi visas have been refused when passports have reflected travel to Israel or indicated an Israeli birthplace.

Passport validity

Passports must have a minimum validity of six months on arrival to allow the holder entry to Saudi Arabia.

Female travellers

Women visitors and residents are required to be met by their sponsor upon arrival. Women travelling alone, who are not met by sponsors, have experienced delays before being allowed to enter the country or to continue on other flights.

Foreign women married to Saudi nationals require permission from their husbands for themselves and their children to leave Saudi Arabia.

Travelling with children

Single parents or other adults travelling alone with children should be aware that some countries require documentary evidence of parental responsibility before allowing lone parents to enter the country, or in some cases, before permitting the children to leave the country.

Health

Healthcare facilities in major cities in Saudi Arabia are of a high standard. Outside these major cities most towns have a health centre or basic hospital. Serious cases generally necessitate ambulance/air transfer to hospitals in a major city that might be some distance away.

There have been cases of Rift Valley Fever (RVF) in south-west Saudi Arabia, mainly in the Jizan area. There have also been cases of cerebral malaria but only in Jizan itself. The outbreaks of cerebral malaria are local and do not affect Jeddah or any other areas of Saudi Arabia. If you intend to visit the Jizan region should you seek medical advice on Rift Valley Fever and cerebral malaria before travelling. There have been a number of isolated cases of dengue fever in Jeddah over the last year. You should take sensible precautions to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.

Particularly during Hajj and Ramadan, contagious diseases spread quickly, and pilgrims should take basic medicines with them and consume adequate liquids and salts. Saudi government regulations set out that ACWY quadrivalent meningococcal vaccine is mandatory for people travelling to Saudi Arabia to perform Hajj and Umrah.

You should exercise normal precautions to avoid exposure to HIV/AIDS. For more general information on how to do this see HIV and AIDS.

You should seek medical advice before travelling to Saudi Arabia and ensure that all appropriate vaccinations are up-to-date. For further information on vaccination requirements, health outbreaks and general disease protection and prevention you should visit the websites of the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) and NHS Scotland’s Fit for Travel or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.

For more general health information see Travel Health.

Avian Influenza (Bird Flu)

There have been outbreaks of Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) in the Wafra Al-Gamma in Al-Katief district, Eastern District (Ash Sharqiyah) and at Hijrat al-Barat in Al-Kharj Governate, Riyadh. There have been no human infections or deaths reported.

The risk to humans from Avian Influenza is believed to be very low. As a precaution, you should avoid visiting live animal markets, poultry farms and other places where you may come into close contact with domestic, caged or wild birds; and ensure poultry and egg dishes are thoroughly cooked.

See Avian and Pandemic Flu for more details.

A (H1N1) - Swine Flu

There are confirmed human cases of A (H1N1) in Saudi Arabia, including deaths (source: Saudi Arabian Ministry of Health). The World Health Organisation (WHO) Pandemic Threat Alert Phase has been raised to Level 6. The WHO has further details. You should monitor local media reports for any developments and advice. There is dedicated Swine Flu page on this website. Guidance on Pandemic Flu can be obtained on the UK Department of Health website at: www.dh.gov.uk.

There is screening for H1N1 taking place at all ports of entry to Saudi Arabia. All passengers arriving in Saudi Arabia will be subject to a temperature check. If you have an elevated temperature you may be tested for H1N1. If tested you will have to wait in the airport for the results and may be subject to lengthy delays. Passengers with negative results will be released. Passengers who test positive will be quarantined at a local hospital.

The Saudi authorities have issued specific advice to pilgrims performing Hajj and Umrah this year. You should carefully consider the information provided on the website of the Saudi Arabian Embassy in London before travelling and check the Pilgramage section above.

General

Insurance

We recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance for the whole duration of your proposed trip before travelling. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for the activities you want to undertake. For more general information see Travel Insurance.

If things do go wrong when you are overseas then this is How We Can Help.

Consular registration

Register with our LOCATE service to tell us when and where you are travelling abroad or where you live abroad so our consular and crisis staff can provide better assistance to you in an emergency. More information about registering with LOCATE can be found here.

Qatar travel advice

Travel Summary

• There have been confirmed human cases of A (H1N1) – Swine Flu in Qatar (source: Qatar Ministry of Health). Screening of passengers, including those in transit, is being undertaken at Doha International Airport. Travellers with flu-like symptoms are assessed at the airport and may be transferred to a nearby hospital for any appropriate treatment required.
  
  
• The World Health Organisation (WHO) Pandemic Threat Alert Phase has been raised to Level 6. The WHO website at: http://www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/en/index.html has further details. You should monitor local media reports for any developments and advice. There is a dedicated Swine Flu page on the FCO website. Guidance on Pandemic Flu can be obtained on the UK Department of Health website at: www.dh.gov.uk.
  
  
• There is an underlying threat from terrorism in Qatar. Attacks, although unlikely, could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.
  
  
• You should maintain a high level of security awareness, particularly in public places. You should avoid large gatherings and demonstrations.
  
  
• Around 40,000 British tourists visit Qatar every year (Source: Qatar Immigration Department). 38 British nationals required consular assistance in Qatar in the period 01 April 2008 – 31 March 2009 for the following types of incident; deaths (14 cases); hospitalisations (8 cases); and arrests, for a variety of offences (12 cases). During this period assistance was also requested with regard to lost or stolen passports (25 cases).
  
  
• We recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for the activities you want to undertake. See the General (Insurance) section of this advice and Travel Insurance for more details.
  

Safety and security

Terrorism

There is an underlying threat from terrorism in Qatar. Attacks, although unlikely, could be indiscriminate, including places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.

Terrorists continue to issue statements threatening to carry out attacks in the Gulf region. These include references to attacks on Western interests, including residential compounds, places of worship, military, oil, transport and aviation interests.

You should maintain a high level of security awareness, particularly in public places. You should avoid large gatherings and demonstrations.

For more general information see Terrorism Abroad.

Crime

Nearly 11,000 British nationals live in Qatar, and approximately 40,000 visit annually. Most visits are trouble-free. Although incidents are not common, female visitors should take care when travelling alone at night and are advised to use one of the reputable limousine companies.

The threat from street crime is low. Credit and Debit cards are widely accepted and the incidence of card skimming is low but sensible precautions should be observed.

For more general information see Victims of Crime Abroad.

Political Situation

Qatar Country Profile

Regional developments, including in Iraq, and the Middle East Peace Process continue to have an impact on local public opinion in the region. You should be aware of local sensitivities on these issues. You should follow news reports and be alert to regional developments. You should take sensible precautions for your personal safety and avoid public gatherings and demonstrations.

Local Travel

Road Travel

Driving in Qatar is of a lower standard than in the UK. Road discipline is very poor, speeds are high and minor accidents commonplace. Qatar has the highest fatality rate among developed & developing nations (source: journal of Technology & Science June 2009). In the first 10 months of 2007 240 people died as a result of road traffic accidents (source: Qatari Government figures). This equates to a ratio of 30 road deaths per 100,000 of population and compares to the UK average of 5.5 road deaths per 100,000 of population in 2005 (source: UK Department for Transport).

If you have a motor accident, remain with your vehicle. It is an offence to leave the scene of the accident although if no one has been injured in the accident and it is safe to do so, you should move your vehicle to a safe nearby parking position. It is strongly in your own interests to display calm at all times. A police report is required before any repairs can be carried out to your vehicle or any claim made against your insurance.

Significant increases in penalties for traffic offences were introduced in February 2009. This includes talking on a mobile phone whilst driving, and not wearing a seatbelt. Even minor expressions of "road rage", such as rude gestures, can attract significant penalties. The penalty for using mobile phones while driving has been increased to a minimum fine of QR 3,000 (£500) and a maximum fine of QR 10,000 (£1666). Offenders could also be liable to one-year’s imprisonment.

The law stipulates that the driver and the front seat passenger should wear seat belts all the time.

Excursions to the desert can be hazardous unless undertaken in an adequately equipped 4 x 4 vehicle. Always travel in convoy with other cars, take a supply of water and a mobile telephone if you have one and leave travel plans with friends or relatives.

Visitors (tourist or business) may drive in Qatar for a maximum of 14 days on a foreign driving licence following their arrival in Qatar. After 14 days they must apply for a temporary Qatari licence. This licence is valid for 3 months. Once you obtain a residency permit, you must contact the local traffic department to obtain a full Qatar driving licence, as you will no longer be permitted to drive on a UK or temporary licence. Driving on an International driver’s licence is not permitted.

It is an offence in Qatar to drink and drive. There is zero tolerance for drinking and driving. Offenders will be detained and fined. Offenders are also likely to be imprisoned and /or deported. Driving under the influence of alcohol is punishable by a custodial sentence of between one month and three years, a fine of QR10,000 (£1666) to QR50,000 (£8333), or both.

You should note that any police case file being opened against you in respect of a driving or drinking related incident automatically results in a ban on leaving Qatar until your case has been resolved. Most cases are straightforward and are dealt with by the Public Prosecutor. However, more serious cases can take up to six months to be heard. If a local lawyer is required, the fee will be around QR30,000 (£5,000) to initially consider your case.

For more general information see Driving Abroad.

Sea Travel

Many areas of the Gulf are highly sensitive, including near maritime boundaries and the islands of Abu Musa and the Tunbs in the southern Gulf. Vessels entering these areas have been detained and inspected, and there have been occasional arrests. Mariners should make careful enquiries before entering these waters or considering visiting ports.

You should exercise care when travelling by Dhow, as the safety of these vessels may not be up to UK standards. You should also ensure that life jackets are available.

For more general information see River and Sea Safety.

Local laws and customs

Local laws reflect the fact that Qatar is a Muslim country. You should respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions at all times and be aware of your actions to ensure that they do not offend other cultures or religious beliefs, especially during the holy month of Ramadan or if you intend to visit religious areas. For more general information see Travelling during Ramadan.

The importation of narcotics, alcohol, pornography, pork products and religious books and material is forbidden. All passenger luggage is scanned for contents at the Doha Aairport Arrivals Hall. DVDs and videos may be subject to scrutiny and may be censored. In particular, the penalties for possession of or trade in drugs are severe, often resulting in prison sentences. It is a punishable offence to drink alcohol or be drunk in public. Offenders may incur a prison sentence or deportation. Alcohol is, however, available at licensed hotel restaurants and bars, and expatriates living in Qatar can obtain alcohol on a permit system. You should not carry alcohol with you, including in your car (except to take it on the day of collection from the warehouse to your home).

You should dress modestly when in public, including whilst driving. Women should cover their shoulders and avoiding the wearing of short skirts. You should behave courteously at all times.

Any intimacy in public between men and women (including teenagers) can lead to arrest.

Homosexual behaviour is illegal in Qatar.

For more general information for different types of travellers see Your Trip.

Entry requirements

Visas

British visitors can obtain single entry short stay visas (valid for 21 days) at the airport on arrival. The cost is QR110 (£18), which can only be paid by credit card. Once in Qatar you may extend your stay through the Immigration Authorities for a further 14 days. The cost is Qatari Riyals 110. Longer-term visitors must obtain a valid visa from their nearest Qatari Embassy before travelling.

Passport validity

British passport holders should ensure they have at least six months validity and at least on blank page available on their passport before arriving in Qatar.

Travelling with children

Single parents or other adults travelling alone with children should be aware that some countries require documentary evidence of parental responsibility before allowing lone parents to enter the country, or, in some cases, before permitting the children to leave the country. For further information on exactly what will be required at immigration please contact the Qatari Embassy in London.

Health

Emergency medical treatment is excellent but can be expensive. Routine treatment is available but expensive for visitors.

A small number of cases of meningitis have recently been reported in Doha. The incidence of meningitis is low and within in accepted medical norms. Advice received from the Qatar National Health Authority is that there is no cause for alarm or the need to take special precautions against the disease.

You should exercise normal precautions to avoid exposure to HIV/AIDS. For more general information on how to do this see HIV and AIDS.

You should seek medical advice before travelling to Qatar and ensure that all appropriate vaccinations are up-to-date. For further information on vaccination requirements, health outbreaks and general disease protection and prevention you should visit the websites of NaTHNaC and NHS Scotland's Fit For Travel or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.

A (H1N1) – Swine Flu
There have been confirmed human cases of A (H1N1) – Swine Flu in Qatar (source: Qatar Ministry of Health). Screening of passengers, including those in transit, is being undertaken at Doha International Airport. Travellers with flu-like symptoms are assessed at the airport and may be transferred to a nearby hospital for any appropriate treatment required.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) Pandemic Threat Alert Phase has been raised to Level 6. The WHO website at: http://www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/en/index.html has further details. You should monitor local media reports for any developments and advice. There is a dedicated Swine Flu page on the FCO website. Guidance on Pandemic Flu can be obtained on the UK Department of Health website at: www.dh.gov.uk.

For more general health information see Travel Health.

General

Insurance

We recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake. For more general information see Travel Insurance.

If things do go wrong when you are overseas then this is How We Can Help.

Registering with the British Embassy

There is no need for short-term visitors (less than two-weeks) to register. If you intend to live in Qatar, you should register at the British Embassy in Doha. This can now be done online, or in person by completion of a registration card.

You may also register with our LOCATE service to tell us when and where you are travelling abroad or where you live abroad so our consular and crisis staff can provide better assistance to you in an emergency. More information about registering with LOCATE can be found here.

Working in Qatar

Potential job seekers should be aware that those testing HIV positive whilst applying for their residence permit are detained then deported. There is no appeal process. Taking a blood test shortly before travelling to Qatar to take up work would therefore be advisable.

Potential job seekers should also be aware that under Qatari Labour Law the employer’s permission (an Exit Permit) to leave Qatar is required on every occasion. You should also ask potential employers whether they operate under an exemption from the Qatari Labour Law, as this may affect the terms and conditions under which you are employed.

Under Qatar sponsorship laws, any employee wishing to change from one sponsor to another must be given a No Objection Certificate (NOC). Employees should note however that there is no obligation upon a sponsor to give an employee an NOC. Without an NOC an employee must leave Qatar at the end of their employment and may not return to work in Qatar for two (2) years. The Embassy is not able to influence or request the granting of an NOC on behalf of a British National.

Oman travel advice

Travel Summary

• There are confirmed human cases of Swine Flu in Oman. Screening of passengers, including those in transit, is being undertaken at Muscat International Airport. All passengers are required to complete a landing card on arrival, and pass through a thermal scanner. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has raised its Pandemic Threat Alert Phase to Level 6. The WHO website at http://www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/en/index.html has further details. You should monitor local media reports for local developments and advice. There is a dedicated Swine Flu page for further information. Guidance on Pandemic Flu can be obtained on the UK Department of Health website.
  
  
• There is an underlying threat from terrorism in Oman. Attacks, although unlikely, could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers. See the Terrorism section of this advice for more details.
  
  
• You should maintain a high level of security awareness, particularly in public places. You should avoid large gatherings and demonstrations.
  
  
• 23 British nationals required consular assistance in Oman in the period 01 April 2008 – 31 March 2009 for the following types of incident; deaths (4 cases); hospitalisations (1 cases); and arrests, for a variety of offences (8 cases). During this period assistance was also requested with regard to lost or stolen passports (11 cases).
  
  
• You should carry some form of identification with you at all times (either a copy of your passport or your Omani ID).
  
  
• We recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake. See the General (Insurance) section of this advice and Travel Insurance for more details.

Safety and security

Terrorism

There is an underlying threat from terrorism in Oman. Attacks, although unlikely, could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers. For more general information see Terrorism Abroad.

Terrorists continue to issue statements threatening to carry out attacks in the Gulf region. These include references to attacks on Western interests, including residential compounds, military, oil, transport and aviation interests.

For further information check British Embassy, Muscat - Oman.

You should maintain a high level of security awareness, particularly in public places. You should avoid large gatherings and demonstrations. British nationals who are travelling to, or are currently in Oman are advised to register with the British Embassy.

For more general information see Terrorism Abroad.

Crime

6,000 British nationals live in Oman and approximately 120,000 visited during FY 2006/2007. Most visits are trouble-free.

The law and order situation is generally good.

There have been some reported cases of robbery and other occasional incidents of violence in which foreigners have been victims. A man responsible for the attempted murders of two British Citizens in 2003 and 2004 has been apprehended, tried, found guilty and sentenced.

On 4 November 2008, we received a report of an incident involving a young child at Muscat International Airport on 30 October 2008. The child was the subject of an apparent attempted abduction. We are working with the authorities to determine the facts of the case, and the ROP are investigating the incident. This is the first report we have had of this type of incident in Oman. We advise all British nationals to exercise vigilance when they are in crowded public places with their children.

We have received reports of individuals calling at private homes claiming to be representatives of the Ministry of Health offering vaccines against bird flu. There is no Ministry of Health bird flu vaccination service. The "vaccination" is a drug, and victims are robbed while unconscious.

For more general information see Victims of Crime Abroad.

Political Situation

Oman Country Profile

Developments in Iraq and on the Middle East Peace Process continue to have an impact on local public opinion in the region. You should be aware of local sensitivities on these issues. You should follow news reports and be alert to local and regional developments, which might trigger public disturbances.

You should take sensible precautions for your personal safety and avoid public gatherings and demonstrations.

Local Travel

Road Travel

You can drive on a UK driving licence. However, residents must obtain an Omani driving licence as soon as possible. In case of an accident a resident may find that a UK driving licence is not deemed valid for insurance purposes.

Holders of UK and certain other driving licences can currently obtain an Omani licence without taking a driving test. This does not apply automatically to holders of driving licences issued by the Isle of Man, Channel Islands or Overseas Territories.

Observe speed limits. If you are involved in a major road traffic accident (any accident which causes physical injuries to motorists, passengers or pedestrians or causes severe damage to the vehicles involved or damage to public or private properties) you must remain with your vehicle and summon the Royal Oman Police (ROP, tel. 9999). Since 1 June 2007, if you are involved in a minor road traffic accident, it may not be necessary to call the police, but you must follow the procedures set out on Royal Oman Police. You must keep a Minor Road Traffic Accident form in your car. This is available from the Royal Oman Police website or from your insurance company. It is the responsibility of car rental companies to keep forms in their cars.

Driving at night can be dangerous outside Muscat, as there is a risk of hitting camels that stray on the road. Rainfall can cause sudden and severe flooding in dry riverbeds and on roads which cross them. Rental and company vehicles particularly have been vulnerable to robbery in the Thumrait, Marmul and Nimr area of Southern Oman. If you rent a car, you should take advice on security from the hire company before undertaking travel. All off road travel should be with at least two vehicles suitably equipped in case of emergencies. If you are intending such travel, you should take out sufficient insurance to meet the costs of a major rescue operation.

Driving is on the right. The standards of the roads in Muscat and between Muscat and Nizwa in the interior are good. Driving standards are generally high, by regional levels, but drivers do tend to speed and tailgate. Extra vigilance should be taken when driving outside Muscat on main roads, which are not dual carriageways, as drivers can overtake with little consideration for oncoming traffic.

Traffic laws are strictly imposed in Oman. Seat belts must be worn in the front seats and you are not allowed to use a mobile phone whilst driving (you can be given an on-the-spot fine). Speed limits are clearly posted on major roads. There is a minimum 48 hours in jail for any traffic offence in which the driver tests positive for alcohol. (The legal blood alcohol level in Oman is close to zero). Since the beginning of 2008 the ROP have begun imposing minimum 48 hour jail sentences for traffic offences such as jumping a red light and using the hard shoulder/ emergency lane to overtake, as well as for driving with an expired or invalid driving licence.

You should not to offend local culture when driving, e.g. through abusive gestures or language. This can lead to complaints being lodged with the police, who have been taking forward cases of reported insulting behaviour to Omani citizens.

If you are travelling alone by car at night it is prudent (especially if you are a woman) to lock all doors and ensure car windows are closed.

For more general information see Driving Abroad.

Sea Travel

Many areas of the Gulf are highly sensitive, including near maritime boundaries and the islands of Abu Musa and the Tunbs in the southern Gulf. Vessels entering these areas have been detained and inspected; and there have been occasional arrests. Mariners should make careful enquiries before entering these waters or considering visiting ports.

On 30 March 2006, a Dhow capsized in Bahrain. There were 58 fatalities, including 12 British nationals. You should exercise care when travelling by Dhow, as the safety of these vessels may not be up to UK standards. You should also ensure that life jackets are available.

For more general information see River and Sea Safety.

Local laws and customs

Local laws reflect the fact that Oman is a Muslim country. You should respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions at all times and be aware of your actions to ensure that they do not offend other cultures or religious beliefs, especially during the holy month of Ramadan or if you intend to visit religious areas. For more general information see Travelling during Ramadan.

In public, general modesty of behaviour and dress is expected. Women who wear shorts or tight-fitting clothes, in particular in downtown areas, are likely to attract unwelcome attention. There have been some reported cases of sexual harassment.

We recommend that you carry a copy of your passport (if a visitor) or their Omani ID (if a resident) at all times for identification purposes.

The import (even temporary) of right hand drive vehicles is not allowed.

The import and use of narcotics and obscene material are forbidden and can lead to imprisonment. There are severe penalties for drug offences including, in some cases, the death penalty. "Soft" drugs are treated as seriously as "hard" drugs. Possession of cannabis, even in quantities of less than one gram, will bring a minimum prison sentence of 12 months followed by deportation. Non-Muslims can import alcohol, to a maximum of 2 litres per family. It can be bought at a duty free shop at the airport on arrival, but within Oman, alcohol can be purchased only by personal licence or at licensed hotels and restaurants. Pork products are available at specially licensed food outlets.

Homosexual behaviour is illegal in Oman.

For more general information for different types of travellers see Your Trip.

Entry requirements

Visas

British passport holders can obtain an entry visa upon arrival at any land, sea or air entry port in Oman.

There are two options:

• A one-month combined tourist/business visa costing 6 Omani Rials (OR). This can be extended for one month for a further 6 OR;
• A one year multiple entry visa, which is valid for three weeks, after which nationals must leave Oman for at least three weeks before returning. The cost for this is 10 OR.

Overstaying without the proper authority can lead to fines of 10 OR per day.

Travelling with medication

Some prescription medicines common in the United Kingdom are banned in Oman. If you are travelling to Oman with prescription drugs you should carry a copy of the prescription. Not to do so can be an offence if the drugs are on the banned list, and the penalties, including prison, can be severe. If you have any queries, you are advised to check well in advance with Oman's Ministry of Health.

Travelling with children

Single parents or other adults travelling alone with children should be aware that some countries require documentary evidence of parental responsibility before allowing lone parents to enter the country or, in some cases, before permitting the children to leave the country.

Health

There are confirmed human cases of Swine Flu in Oman. Screening of passengers, including those in transit, is being undertaken at Muscat International Airport. All passengers are required to complete a landing card on arrival, and pass through a thermal scanner. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has raised its Pandemic Threat Alert Phase to Level 6. The WHO website at: http://www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/en/index.html has further details. There is a dedicated Swine Flu page on the FCO website. Guidance on Pandemic Flu can be obtained on the UK Department of Health website at www.dh.gov.uk.

You should exercise normal precautions to avoid exposure to HIV/AIDS. For more general information on how to do this see HIV and AIDS.

You should seek medical advice before travelling to Oman and ensure that all appropriate vaccinations are up-to-date. For further information on vaccination requirements, health outbreaks and general disease protection and prevention you should visit the websites of the NaTHNaC and NHS Scotland's Fit For Travel or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.

For more general health information see Travel Health.

General

Insurance

We recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling, including provision for medical evacuation by air ambulance. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake. For more general information see Travel Insurance.

If things do go wrong when you are overseas then this is How We Can Help.

Consular Registration

Register with our LOCATE service to tell us when and where you are travelling abroad or where you live abroad so our consular and crisis staff can provide better assistance to you in an emergency. More information about registering with LOCATE can be found here.