The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade has issued a strong travel advisory urging Fijian nationals not to travel to the Middle East following the recent escalation of hostilities in the region.
In a statement, the Ministry warned that the security situation remains volatile and unpredictable, and advised Fijians to avoid all travel to, or transit through, several countries in the region.
The countries listed in the advisory include Bahrain, United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Iran, Israel, Jordan, Syria, Lebanon, Azerbaijan, Türkiye, Yemen, Oman and Cyprus.
Fijians currently in the region are being advised to leave as soon as it is safe to do so, including through available commercial flights as services gradually resume in some countries.
The Ministry also urged travellers to check directly with airlines or travel providers to confirm flight availability before heading to airports, and to consider alternative travel routes where necessary.
Fijian nationals currently in the Middle East are encouraged to register with Fiji’s embassies in Abu Dhabi or Jerusalem to allow officials to contact and assist them if required.
For those in areas where airspace remains closed or travel is unsafe, the Ministry advises people to shelter in place and follow instructions from local authorities.
The Ministry’s joint Emergency Operations Centre is continuing to monitor developments and assess options to assist Fijians who may be affected.
Fijians needing consular assistance can contact the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade in Suva or Fiji’s embassies in Abu Dhabi and Jerusalem.
The Ministry says it will continue to provide updates as the situation evolves.
