Israel Begins Diplomatic Staff Evacuation from UAE Amid Heightened Security Concerns
ABU DHABI – Israel is withdrawing a majority of its diplomatic personnel from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) following a heightened travel advisory issued by the Israeli National Security Council (NSC), citing an increased threat of terrorism targeting Israelis in the region.
The move comes amid rising regional tensions and a warning that terrorist groups such as Hamas, Hezbollah, and others may seek to retaliate against Israeli interests. The NSC cited ongoing security threats following recent military operations in Iran and Gaza, which have drawn global attention and heightened anti-Israel sentiments.
“Given the significant rise in incitement and motivation among hostile groups, the threat to Israeli citizens abroad—especially in Gulf countries like the UAE—has escalated,” the NSC said in its latest statement.
Travel Warning Remains in Place
While the travel warning level for the UAE remains at Level 3 (orange)—which advises Israelis to avoid non-essential travel—the Israeli government has urged citizens to reconsider any upcoming trips to the Gulf nation.
The NSC specifically highlighted potential threats during Jewish holidays and Shabbat, warning that hostile actors may target Israeli and Jewish individuals during these sensitive times.
A Growing but Now Cautious Relationship
The UAE-Israel relationship, strengthened by the landmark Abraham Accords in 2020, has led to a growing Israeli and Jewish presence in the UAE. The country had been seen as a secure hub for tourism, business, and diplomacy.
However, Israel’s recent military activities and the ongoing crisis in Gaza have drawn increased scrutiny and backlash, raising security concerns across the region.
Diplomatic Silence from UAE and Israel
At the time of reporting, neither the Israeli Foreign Ministry nor the UAE’s Foreign Ministry had issued official statements regarding the evacuation or the travel advisory.
Security in the UAE: Rare Incidents Raise Eyebrows
While the UAE is generally considered one of the safest countries in the Middle East, an incident in November 2024 raised concerns when an Israeli-Moldovan rabbi was murdered. In March 2025, three individuals were sentenced to death for their involvement in the crime—an unusually severe and rare event in the Emirates.
Regional Stability in Question
With rising tensions in the Middle East and increased global pressure on Israel over humanitarian concerns in Gaza, this latest development signals growing instability for Israeli interests abroad, even in countries once considered safe and cooperative.
