Downing Street said Prime Minister Keir Starmer spoke by phone with United Arab Emirates President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on 28 February 2026. The official readout records the Prime Minister expressing solidarity with the UAE and regional partners following loss of life, casualties and damage. (gov.uk)
The Prime Minister thanked the President for efforts to keep British nationals in the UAE safe. Both leaders welcomed strong bilateral co‑operation, stressed the need to prevent further escalation, and reaffirmed their commitment to regional security. They agreed to remain in close contact over the coming days. (gov.uk)
This call coincided with updated Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office travel advice for the UAE on 28 February. The FCDO now advises against all but essential travel and asks British nationals in‑country to shelter in place due to reported missile attacks, and to register their presence for official updates. As of 1 March 2026 the advisory remains in force. (gov.uk)
Guidance for those in the UAE is explicit: remain indoors, avoid all non‑essential movement, follow instructions from local authorities and monitor official alerts. Travellers should keep departure plans under review and ensure travel documents are current, noting the potential for disruption if tensions persist. (gov.uk)
The advisory has practical implications for travellers and employers. UK travel insurers often reference government advice when defining cover, and policies may restrict non‑essential trips when the government advises against them. Organisations should review travel policies and communicate any changes to staff. (gov.uk)
Policy Wire analysis: The emphasis on de‑escalation and citizen safety points to a crisis‑management posture, with close coordination between London and Abu Dhabi while operational guidance flows through the FCDO. No 10’s line that leaders will stay in contact suggests further updates via official channels rather than immediate policy shifts. (gov.uk)
Watchpoints for the week ahead are clear. No 10 has said the two leaders will remain in close contact, and for British nationals the primary signal remains the FCDO advisory-last updated on 28 February and current on 1 March 2026. Any relaxation of that status would indicate a reduction in immediate risk. (gov.uk)