Published on
August 20, 2025
Australia has widened its travel advisory to now list Kuwait among countries already singled out for caution—namely the UAE, Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, France, the Philippines, Bahrain, and Jordan—against the backdrop of escalating regional instability. The announcement underscores rising security fears in the Middle East, Europe, and Southeast Asia, where terrorism, civil unrest, and unexpected disruptions appear to be multiplying. By broadening its warning, the Australian government seeks to inform travelers of the elevated dangers and remind them to stay alert during their stay in these regions.
Australia’s official travel advisory has been widened to include Kuwait, placing the Gulf nation alongside the United Arab Emirates, Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, France, the Philippines, Bahrain, and Jordan. The decision reflects increasing instability across the Middle East, Europe, and Southeast Asia, where a mixture of terrorism threats, political unrest, natural hazards, and rising crime have been identified as risks for international visitors.
The Smart Traveller service, which monitors global developments and issues guidance for Australians abroad, has urged travelers to exercise a high degree of caution in all these destinations. While some regions remain safe for tourism in general, security conditions are considered unpredictable and subject to sudden change.
Kuwait Added Amid Rising Tensions
Kuwait has now been added to the advisory list after new assessments revealed heightened risks of terrorism and civil unrest. The country, which has long enjoyed relative stability compared to some of its neighbors, is now viewed as vulnerable to regional spillovers.
The security environment in Kuwait is described as fluid and unpredictable, with possible threats against foreign and military interests. Travelers are advised to remain alert, particularly around large gatherings, religious events, and areas near government or security facilities.
Protests in Kuwait, while not always widespread, have the potential to escalate quickly. It remains illegal for foreign nationals to take part in demonstrations, and travelers could face arrest if caught in protest activity. Driving conditions are also highlighted as a concern, with reckless road behavior and extreme weather, such as sandstorms and soaring summer temperatures above 50°C, posing additional challenges.
UAE Under Heightened Caution
The United Arab Emirates, usually regarded as a safe hub for transit and tourism, continues to feature under the exercise a high degree of caution category. The advisory has been maintained due to terrorism risks and the broader instability of the Middle East.
Although demonstrations are rare in the UAE, isolated cases of unrest could occur, particularly if regional conflicts intensify. Authorities strictly control public gatherings, and unauthorized protests remain banned.
While the crime rate in the UAE is considered low, travelers are warned about drink spiking, harassment, and occasional petty theft in crowded areas. Security awareness is encouraged, particularly at night or when moving through less populated areas.
Türkiye’s Advisory Linked to Terrorism and Unrest
Türkiye has been included in Australia’s list due to its exposure to terrorism, civil unrest, and natural hazards such as earthquakes. Large-scale protests have become common in major cities like Istanbul, sometimes turning violent. A ban on protest participation is in place, and travelers could face legal consequences if suspected of involvement.
Tourist destinations, transport hubs, and public landmarks are identified as potential targets for terrorist attacks. Australians are urged to keep a low profile, avoid large crowds, and follow the instructions of local authorities.
The risk of earthquakes remains a unique concern in Türkiye, with tremors and aftershocks known to disrupt daily life. Travelers are encouraged to familiarize themselves with safety procedures in their location and identify nearby shelters.
Saudi Arabia on Alert for Terrorism and Drone Attacks
Saudi Arabia remains under strict advisory due to terrorism, missile, and drone threats. Travelers are being warned of unpredictable security situations, with potential attacks targeting critical infrastructure, entertainment events, and crowded areas.
Public demonstrations are prohibited, and penalties for participation are severe. Terrorist threats remain active across the country, requiring travelers to exercise maximum awareness in all public spaces.
Driving in Saudi Arabia is noted as risky due to high road accident rates. Extreme weather, including scorching heat and sandstorms, also continues to affect safety conditions.
France Under Highest Security Alert
France, one of the most visited destinations in the world, is flagged with a high degree of caution due to terrorism and crime. Authorities have raised the national terrorism alert to its highest level, increasing security measures across landmarks, transport hubs, schools, and religious institutions.
Terrorist attacks in France have occurred in recent years, and the risk remains significant, especially in locations popular with tourists. Public gatherings, cultural events, and festivals are considered vulnerable targets.
Crime is another pressing issue, particularly in urban centers such as Paris. Pickpocketing, bag snatching, and passport theft are widespread, with tourists often targeted in metro stations, around landmarks, and in airport transport links. Drink spiking has also been reported.
Strikes and demonstrations occur regularly in France, often resulting in clashes with police. Travelers are urged to avoid protest areas and monitor official announcements.
Philippines Identified as High-Risk
The Philippines continues to be highlighted in Australia’s advisory due to terrorism, violent crime, kidnapping, and natural disasters. Central and western Mindanao, along with the Sulu Archipelago and the southern Sulu Sea, are labeled as do not travel zones because of the very high threat of terrorism and kidnapping.
Recent terrorist incidents, including the 2023 attack in Marawi City, demonstrate ongoing risks. Major cities such as Manila are not immune, with increased security measures in place. Violent crimes, including robbery, sexual assault, and gang-related attacks, remain a significant concern.
Natural disasters also pose threats, with typhoons, tropical storms, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions common throughout the year. Travelers are urged to prepare for sudden disruptions to transport, utilities, and essential services.
Bahrain Monitored for Civil Unrest
Bahrain remains on the advisory list due to terrorism and civil unrest risks. Although crime levels are generally low, political demonstrations are not uncommon and have the potential to escalate quickly. Public gatherings without authorization are illegal, and travelers could face legal action for involvement.
The country’s position as a host for regional security forces makes it a potential target for terrorist activities. Friday prayers have occasionally been followed by protests, requiring visitors to remain cautious near mosques and public spaces.
Extreme summer temperatures and sandstorms are also a concern for those visiting Bahrain.
Jordan at Risk from Regional Spillovers
Jordan is also included in the advisory due to terrorism, protests, and missile debris risks linked to conflicts in neighboring regions. Reports have noted that missiles and drones fired toward Israel from Yemen have at times failed mid-flight, with debris falling inside Jordan. Travelers are advised to remain indoors during such incidents.
Demonstrations occur frequently in Jordan, particularly in Amman. These can escalate rapidly, and foreigners are strongly advised to avoid them altogether.
Crime, particularly scams targeting tourists, has also been noted. Female travelers are advised to take additional precautions due to reports of harassment.
Flooding during the rainy season between November and March presents another risk, particularly in valleys and wadis where flash floods can trap motorists.
A Common Pattern of Regional Instability
The inclusion of these countries — Kuwait, UAE, Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, France, the Philippines, Bahrain, and Jordan — reflects a common pattern of rising security risks, terrorism threats, and unpredictable unrest.
Australian officials emphasize that travel advisories are not intended to prevent tourism but rather to equip travelers with accurate and timely information. Tourists are urged to prepare carefully, remain aware of their surroundings, and follow both local regulations and official advice.
Guidance for Travelers
Travelers heading to any of the listed countries are advised to:
Register with Smart Traveller before departure.
Monitor local and international media for updates.
Avoid protests, large gatherings, and unauthorized demonstrations.
Maintain high security awareness, especially in crowded areas.
Respect local laws and cultural sensitivities to avoid legal issues.
Prepare for extreme weather events, particularly in Gulf and Southeast Asian regions.
The advisory also highlights the importance of comprehensive travel insurance, covering medical emergencies, cancellations, and unexpected disruptions caused by unrest or natural disasters.
Australia has widened its travel warning to cover Kuwait, adding to existing alerts for the UAE, Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, France, the Philippines, Bahrain, and Jordan, reflecting a surge in regional instability and heightened security concerns.
The advisory underscores the cumulative instability confronting these countries. Risks—including terrorism, civil disorder, crime, and sporadic environmental hazards—continue to pose unpredictable challenges to traveler safety. Although tourism activity may still proceed, travelers should prepare for sudden shifts in security and logistics.
The warning is advisory, not prohibitive; it emphasizes the importance of heightened awareness, thorough pre-trip planning, and a clear understanding of local regulations and risk factors. For Australians, and all travelers to the region, the recommended approach remains consistent: monitor official updates, stay attuned to evolving circumstances, and act with necessary caution throughout the journey.
