UAE residents’ update: US travel alert, Iran ceasefire terms, Saudi missile interception and flight updates

UAE residents faced ongoing travel uncertainties on Sunday as heightened tensions in the Middle East persisted. The US issued a travel warning urging Americans to reconsider visiting or traveling through the region due to escalating tensions. While Dubai and Abu Dhabi airports remained operational, some regional flights were canceled, including those operated by Air Arabia and flydubai to Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Kuwait.

Saudi Arabia reported successfully intercepting a Houthi missile targeting Riyadh, preventing any civilian casualties. The Saudi-led coalition also thwarted attempts to target civilians in Bish, Taif, Farasan, and Yanbu. No one was reported injured in the incident, which marked the first recorded Houthi strike on Riyadh since the conflict escalated in July.

Iranian officials maintained their stance on keeping the Strait of Hormuz closed until Iran's conditions were met. Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf outlined seven demands for negotiations, including an end to fighting, the release of frozen Iranian assets, and an end to the US naval blockade. Iran warned that any retaliatory US attack would strike American bases and interests in the Middle East.

The situation remained fluid, with continued attention on Saudi-Houthi attacks, Iran's position on the Strait of Hormuz, and ongoing diplomatic efforts between Tehran and Washington. UAE residents were advised to stay informed through airline and airport updates regarding their travel plans.