Flying to Dubai
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Israel's security service has barred Israeli airlines from landing in Dubai until 31 October 2026. The restriction does not apply to foreign carriers. According to reports, Israel requires additional screening of cargo loaded onto Israeli aircraft, and the Emirates are not currently set up for it.

In practice that means El Al, Arkia and Israir are suspended, while flydubai and Etihad continue to operate.

There is also a route through Abu Dhabi: fly Etihad into Zayed International, then take the Airport Express coach to Ibn Battuta in Dubai. It leaves on the hour, around the clock, and takes about an hour and a half. A taxi is the other option.

Israel and the Emirates signed a mutual visa waiver in 2020 for stays of up to 90 days.

According to the Israeli mission in Dubai, entry is with an ordinary or biometric passport valid for at least six months.

Rules at the border are set by the Emirates and can change without notice. Check the current position before you fly, and keep your return ticket and hotel booking to hand.

Government travel advice for the region is updated from time to time and is worth reading in full rather than in summary, because it usually distinguishes between areas and between types of travel.

Our own practical advice is unglamorous and works everywhere: keep your documents somewhere separate from your phone, agree the fare or use the meter before a taxi moves, and do not photograph government buildings or military sites.