Australia has directed the families of government officials stationed in the United Arab Emirates to leave the country as security concerns grow amid the expanding conflict in the Middle East.
Foreign affairs minister Penny Wong confirmed the decision in a statement posted on X, citing a deteriorating security environment in the region.
“The Australian Government has directed the departure of dependants of Australian officials posted to the UAE, due to the deteriorating security situation,” Wong said.
Travel advice updated
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has also updated its travel advice in response to the escalation.
“Our travel advice has been updated to reflect that direction. We continue to advise Australians not to travel to the UAE,” Wong said.
The move comes as tensions in the Middle East intensify amid the conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States, which has raised concerns about wider regional instability.
Australians returning home
The government has also been assisting Australians seeking to return from the region while commercial flights remain available.
Wong said more than 1,700 Australians have already returned home on direct flights from the UAE since the crisis escalated.
Officials are continuing to contact Australians who have registered with the government when flight seats become available.
“We are contacting registered Australians directly when we know seats are available,” Wong said.
Urgent travel advice
The foreign minister urged Australians still in the region to leave while travel options remain open.
“If you can secure a seat, please consider taking it,” she said.
The evacuation advice reflects growing international concern about the potential expansion of the conflict across the Middle East and its impact on civilian safety and international travel.
