US Warns of Terror Threats to Jewish, Israeli Communities in UAE

The United States Mission to the United Arab Emirates has issued a security alert urging American citizens to avoid locations associated with Jewish and Israeli communities, including places of worship, due to credible threats from terrorist groups such as Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iranian proxies. This advisory follows Israel’s National Security Council raising its travel warning for the UAE to Level 3, citing intensified terrorist activities targeting Israeli and Jewish interests amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict and regional tensions. Both US and Israeli advisories emphasize heightened risks during Jewish holidays and Shabbat periods, warning of attempts by terrorist groups to exploit regional instability to pressure Israel diplomatically. In response to the threat, Israel evacuated most diplomatic staff but maintains embassy and consulate operations in coordination with UAE authorities. These warnings highlight security concerns despite the historically close ties between Israel and the UAE under the Abraham Accords, where Jewish communal life has visibly grown with new synagogues and cultural centers. Americans in the UAE are encouraged to stay informed through the State Department’s travel website and enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program for real-time updates and emergency assistance.