The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs has implemented a comprehensive system to issue travel alerts and warnings for citizens traveling abroad.
The UAE Ministry provides travel alerts and assistance for citizens
These notifications are accessible through an interactive map on the Emirati Traveler page of the Ministry’s website and smart application. The map details entry procedures and instructions for each country, aiding travelers in understanding the requirements before embarking on their journeys.
According to a report from the UAE's digital government, the interactive map facilitates simple access to the latest travel procedures worldwide. It includes all relevant requirements, alerts, and warnings about desired destinations. The map also provides valuable information for Emirati travelers, such as visa exemptions, details about diplomatic missions in destination countries, and the use of Emirati driving licenses abroad, under the “Markhoos” initiative.
As many citizens prepare to travel abroad with the start of school vacations and the summer season, the Ministry is dedicated to ensuring their safety and secure return. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs strongly encourages citizens planning to travel to register for the “My Presence” service through the Ministry’s website or the UAE MOFA app, available on Android and iOS platforms. This service allows the Ministry and UAE missions abroad to communicate with travelers in emergencies and crises, assisting and coordinating their return to the Emirates.
List of Additional Services
Additional services for Emirati travelers include issuing return documents via the Ministry’s website or app. Citizens abroad can apply for this service in cases of lost, expired, or damaged passports, or for newborns. The Ministry has also established a hotline for emergency reports, available 24/7, to provide support to UAE citizens facing emergencies abroad. Citizens can report emergencies by calling 0097180024, and each report is handled by the Citizens Affairs Department in coordination with state missions and relevant Ministry departments.
The digital government report also highlights the “Doctor for Every Citizen” service, offered in cooperation with the Dubai Health Authority. This service allows Emirati travelers to report injuries or health issues and receive medical advice. The Ministry’s team refers cases to specialist doctors from the Health Authority for follow-up through direct visual communication between the citizen and the doctor.
Moreover, the report mentions the “Smart Mission” project, which enables customers to access consular services through facial recognition technology. This project allows for direct interaction with customers, providing necessary services without human intervention, using three-dimensional and hologram technology. If needed, a virtual employee can interact directly with customers.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs also offers travel advice and instructions through the “My Presence” service. Travelers are advised to keep electronic copies of official papers and their passports on their mobile phones for emergencies. Official papers should be stored securely while traveling. Additionally, travelers should hold an international driving license if they intend to drive abroad, choose secure accommodations, and familiarize themselves with their destination’s political, cultural, and economic environment.
Travelers are also advised to make reservations with licensed and reliable tourism offices and avoid carrying large amounts of cash, opting for credit cards instead. These measures ensure the safety and well-being of Emirati travelers during their international trips.