Travel Advisory
The situation in the Middle East is highly volatile, with military strikes and reprisal attacks occurring in a number of locations.
US strikes have been reported in many locations across Iran. There remains a significant risk that the security situation could deteriorate at any moment, including through further strikes across the country.
Iran has targeted US military and other interests across the region and attacked, or warned of attacks, on civilian infrastructure including airports and water desalination facilities.
Military conflict could further escalate in the coming days. If the security situation deteriorates further, travel disruptions and airspace closures may occur. New Zealanders travelling through the Middle East transit hubs could become stranded for extended periods. You should consult your travel insurance provider to understand your policy conditions, including if government travel advisory or war exceptions could potentially void your coverage.
The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has issued advice to air operators to avoid Gulf airspace until at least 29 July 2026. Check with your travel provider to confirm if your flights are affected.
We currently advise against all non-essential travel (Level 3) to the following destinations:
Bahrain
Jordan
Kuwait
Oman
Qatar
Saudi Arabia
United Arab Emirates
New Zealanders in these locations should closely monitor media for reporting of potential targets in the region and warnings issued by local authorities.
For those planning travel, we strongly advise New Zealanders to avoid the Middle East and consider other travel routes. If you need to transit these locations, stay as short a time as possible and avoid unnecessary activities. Airspace may close at short notice. Flights can change or stop suddenly. Borders can close.
The above advisories could change again at short notice and be lifted to do not travel (Level 4 of 4).
The following destinations hold our highest advisory levels at Level 4 - do not travel:
Iran
Iraq
Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories
Lebanon
Syria
Yemen
New Zealanders should avoid all travel to these areas. If you are in these locations, you should leave if it is safe and possible to do so. If you are unable to leave you should prioritise your safety, monitor local media and events, and follow the advice of local authorities at all times, including any shelter in place orders
Conditions change rapidly. We strongly recommend checking the official NZ SafeTravel website before booking and immediately prior to your departure.
For specific queries regarding your upcoming itinerary and insurance options, please reach out directly to your local World Travellers travel expert.
World Travellers Insights: TVNZ Breakfast Feature
Watch our team discuss navigating Middle East travel and safety disruptions during our live March interview.