Home » EGYPT TRAVEL NEWS » Tunisia Joins Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Ghana, Thailand, Egypt, And More As UK Issues New Urgent Travel Advisory Amid Intensifying Regional Uncertainty, Security Threats, And Heightened Risk For Travelers
Published on
January 30, 2026
Tunisia joins Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Ghana, Thailand, Egypt, and more as the UK issues a new urgent travel advisory due to rising political unrest, heightened security risks, and growing regional tensions. These countries are currently facing significant challenges, including terrorism threats, political instability, and border conflicts, prompting the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) to warn travelers to exercise extreme caution and stay vigilant while traveling.
As political instability, security threats, and regional tensions continue to rise, the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has issued urgent travel advisories for several countries, urging British nationals to be cautious and stay updated on the evolving situations. Tunisia, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Ghana, Thailand, and Egypt are among the countries impacted by these warnings, each facing unique challenges ranging from terrorist activity and civil unrest to border instability. The advisories come as these regions grapple with political turmoil, escalating conflicts, and an increased risk of violence, putting both local populations and international travelers at risk. Travelers planning to visit these destinations are strongly advised to monitor local developments closely, follow official government guidance, and take extra precautions to ensure their safety during their travels.
In response to increasing political instability, escalating security concerns, and growing regional tensions, the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has issued new urgent travel advisories for several countries. These include Tunisia, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Ghana, Thailand, and Egypt. Each of these destinations is facing unique challenges, ranging from heightened terrorist threats to political unrest and border instability. Travelers are urged to exercise caution, closely monitor local developments, and follow official government guidance. Below, we dive into the specifics of each country that has been affected by this advisory.
Tunisia: Rising Tensions and Border Instability
Tunisia, a popular destination known for its Mediterranean coastline and rich cultural history, is now at the forefront of the UK’s travel warnings. The FCDO has advised against all travel to certain parts of Tunisia, particularly areas near the Tunisia-Algeria and Tunisia-Libya borders, where cross-border terrorist activity and military operations have raised significant security concerns.
Key Areas to Avoid:
Western Tunisia: Including the Chaambi Mountains National Park and surrounding military operation zones like Mount Salloum, Mount Sammamma, and Mount Mghila. These regions have been marked by frequent security operations and ongoing terrorist activities.Southern Tunisia: Areas near the Tunisia-Libya border, such as El Borma, Dhehiba, and Ben Guerdane, have also been flagged due to heightened cross-border terrorist activity, including operations in Libya.
Additionally, Sidi Bou Said, a popular tourist spot, is currently under temporary safety measures due to the aftermath of a severe storm that caused potential risks like landslides. Visitors to Tunisia should take extra precautions and consult local authorities for the latest updates on safety measures.
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Turkey: Political Unrest and Growing Security Threats
Turkey has long been a significant travel destination, offering a unique blend of rich history, cultural diversity, and stunning landscapes. However, political instability, particularly in the southeastern regions, has prompted the FCDO to issue an advisory against all but essential travel in certain areas.
Key Areas to Avoid:
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Turkey-Syria Border: The FCDO has advised against all travel to regions within 10km of the Turkey-Syria border due to ongoing conflicts and the heightened risk of terrorism.Southeast Turkey: The provinces of Diyarbakir, Hakkari, Mardin, and Sirnak, as well as large parts of the southern border areas, have also been flagged due to ongoing tensions and security threats.
Despite these risks, cities like Istanbul and Ankara remain relatively stable, though travelers should remain vigilant and avoid demonstrations, which have occasionally escalated into violent confrontations.
Saudi Arabia: Heightened Risk of Regional Tensions
Saudi Arabia, a country with a deeply conservative culture, has seen heightened regional tensions that now extend to its travel advisories. The UK FCDO has issued warnings particularly for areas near the Yemen border, where ongoing regional conflicts and military activities pose significant threats to foreign nationals.
Key Areas to Avoid:
Saudi Arabia-Yemen Border: The FCDO strongly advises against all travel within 10km of the Saudi-Yemeni border, and limits travel within a 10-80 km range due to frequent clashes and risks of cross-border terrorist activities.
The FCDO also warns against non-essential travel to areas near military and security facilities due to their potential as terrorist targets. As Saudi Arabia continues its involvement in regional conflicts, travelers must be cautious and stay updated on developments through local media.
Ghana: Terrorist Threats and Political Unrest
Ghana has long been seen as a stable beacon in West Africa, but rising terrorist threats from groups operating near its northern borders, particularly in neighboring Burkina Faso, have led the FCDO to issue advisories against all but essential travel in specific regions.
Key Areas to Avoid:
Bawku Municipality: This area in Ghana’s Upper East region is experiencing inter-ethnic violence and the presence of terrorist groups, making it a high-risk zone for travelers.Northern Border Areas: The northern border areas, including regions close to the border with Burkina Faso, are susceptible to attacks from armed groups like Jama’a Nusrat ul-Islam wa al-Muslimin (JNIM).
Although Ghana remains a largely safe destination, travelers should avoid these high-risk zones and remain alert to potential disturbances in urban areas such as Accra.
Thailand: Security Risks in the South
Thailand’s appeal as a tropical paradise draws millions of tourists every year, but there are serious security risks in its southern provinces. The FCDO advises against all but essential travel to these areas due to ongoing terrorist attacks and regional instability.
Key Areas to Avoid:
Thailand-Malaysia Border: The provinces of Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat, located in the southernmost tip of Thailand, are particularly vulnerable to violence linked to separatist movements and terrorism. There are frequent attacks targeting security forces and civilians alike.Thailand-Cambodia Border: The FCDO has issued a travel advisory against all travel within 50km of the Thailand-Cambodia border due to the risk of armed confrontations and the presence of unexploded landmines.
Despite these risks, most tourist areas in Thailand, such as Bangkok and the islands, remain unaffected, though travelers are advised to avoid large gatherings and stay updated on the security situation.
Egypt: Escalating Security Risks and Regional Instability
Egypt, with its iconic landmarks such as the Pyramids and the Sphinx, continues to attract millions of tourists annually. However, increasing security concerns, particularly in areas near the Libyan and Sinai borders, have led the UK government to issue an advisory.
Key Areas to Avoid:
Egypt-Libya Border: The FCDO advises against all travel to within 20km of the Egypt-Libya border, except for El Salloum. This region remains highly volatile due to cross-border militant activity and smuggling operations.North Sinai: The North Sinai Governorate is a high-risk zone, with frequent attacks targeting security forces and civilian infrastructure. Travelers are urged to avoid this area entirely.Western Desert: While some parts of Egypt’s Western Desert remain accessible, the FCDO advises against all but essential travel in this region, particularly in areas near the Nile Valley and the border regions.
Egypt’s political environment is also somewhat restrictive, with the authorities maintaining a strong security presence. Demonstrations, protests, and large gatherings are discouraged, and travelers should remain cautious when navigating urban areas.
Regional Risks and Increased Vigilance
In addition to specific country advisories, the UK FCDO has highlighted heightened risks across the broader region. The ongoing instability in the Middle East, coupled with political tensions in North Africa and parts of Asia, has led to a general sense of uncertainty for travelers in these areas.
What Travelers Should Do:
Stay Informed: Travelers should constantly monitor the local media for updates on security developments and follow the advice of local authorities.Avoid Large Gatherings: Public demonstrations, protests, and strikes are common in many of these regions and can escalate into violence with little warning.Travel Insurance: It’s crucial for travelers to obtain comprehensive travel insurance that covers potential disruptions due to the current security situation.
As political instability and security risks rise in Tunisia, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Ghana, Thailand, Egypt, and beyond, the FCDO’s new urgent travel advisories underscore the importance of taking extra precautions when planning trips to these destinations. While the majority of the world’s popular tourist spots remain safe, specific regions are experiencing heightened risks that can affect both tourists and locals alike.
Travelers are urged to stay informed, remain vigilant, and adhere to official government advice to ensure their safety while abroad. In regions like these, the situation can change rapidly, and it is essential to have up-to-date information on safety measures, local conditions, and emergency contacts.
Tunisia joins Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Ghana, Thailand, Egypt, and more as the UK issues a new urgent travel advisory amid rising political unrest, heightened security risks, and growing regional tensions. These countries are facing increasing instability, including terrorism, civil unrest, and border conflicts, prompting the FCDO to warn travelers to exercise caution.
By following official travel advisories, exercising caution, and being prepared for any eventuality, tourists can help mitigate the risks and enjoy their trips safely in these often-beautiful, yet occasionally volatile, regions of the world.
