“Caring for our customers and ensuring their safety is our priority,” stated a spokesperson from Hays Travel, reflecting the heightened concerns surrounding travel advisories issued by the UK Foreign Office.
In recent updates, the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has advised against all but essential travel to the United Arab Emirates, urging travellers to avoid areas near security or military facilities. This warning comes amidst escalating tensions in the region, particularly due to the ongoing US-Israeli conflict involving Iran.
The FCDO’s travel guidance is a crucial resource for British nationals, continuously refreshed to keep them informed of alerts and entry requirements. The situation in the UAE has prompted many travel agencies, including Hays Travel, to reassess their offerings and ensure that customer safety remains paramount.
In contrast, the FCDO has also updated its travel advice for Portugal, where British passport holders can visit without requiring a visa for stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day timeframe. However, if a visitor needs to stay longer than 90 days, they must apply for an extension under exceptional circumstances.
From April 10, 2026, the EU’s new Entry/Exit System will be operational, requiring biometric information upon entry to the Schengen zone. This change is significant for British travellers, as overstaying the 90-day visa-free limit may result in a ban from entering Schengen countries for up to three years.
“If you’re visiting Portugal and need to extend your visa-free stay for exceptional reasons, such as a medical emergency, you must apply to AIMA using their contact form,” the FCDO advises, highlighting the importance of understanding entry requirements.
Hays Travel reassured customers that, “If your holiday is not affected by this advice, normal booking terms and conditions apply,” indicating that many trips may proceed as planned despite the warnings.
Travellers are also reminded to ensure that their entire visit to Schengen countries remains within the 90-day visa-free limit, emphasizing the need for careful planning.
As the geopolitical landscape continues to evolve, the FCDO’s travel advisories serve as a critical tool for British nationals, ensuring they are well-informed and prepared for their journeys.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the potential impact of these warnings on travel bookings, but agencies like Hays Travel are closely monitoring the situation.