Out of an abundance of caution, we recommend that American citizens shelter in place until further notice. This message is posted on the homepage of the U.S. Embassy Website for Qatar.
The U.S. Embassy in the United Arab Emirates advises U.S. citizens to exercise increased caution due to heightened regional tensions. Historically, similar tensions have led to travel disruptions and heightened security concerns for U.S. citizens in the region.
British Airways cancelled its flights from London to Doha and Dubai, but resumed traffic today.
While most Americans are as shocked as the rest of the world about the surprise attack by the United States against Iran, the mood among American travelers overseas turned from relaxed to tense with a fear of a world turning against them. It appears the attack on Iran took everyone by surprise.
A tourism leader from Iran told eTurboNews: “I moved to Mashhad by train with difficulties, but I am safe now. My heart remains in Tehran and with my people. Please pray for Iran.”
Another reader from Israel said, ‘There are no flights.’ Airspace is closed. I had long ago booked a family trip to Amsterdam. My friend is in Paris and cannot return home. Yesterday we celebrated my birthday in a bunker.
The conflict between Israel and Iran has resulted in disruptions to travel and periodic closures of airspace across the Middle East. There is the potential for demonstrations against U.S. citizens and interests abroad. The Department of State advises U.S. citizens worldwide to exercise increased caution.
Tourism experts from around the world are discussing the current realities. “War is more harmful to global tourism than epidemics. What is emerging day after day is incompatible with tourism; let us be aware of the serious consequences for employment, the economy, the environment, health, and so on “, says Mohamed Faouzou Déme, a tourism expert from Senegal.
“Whatever the size of the world, we are in a village interconnected by invisible bridges that lead to all borders. Saving tourism means saving war; avoiding war means opening up opportunities”, he added.
African Tourism Board executives across the continent are inviting Americans to visit, saying the continent remains safe, welcoming, and incredible.
After all, tourism continues to bring people together, including those who are supposed to be enemies. People are stronger than war and politics, and this is the insurance policy tourism has to survive and stay resilient.
