UAE Embassy Warns Emiratis Traveling to Turkey About Safety Concerns
UAE Travel Advisory Issued for Turkey Following Bus Accident
The UAE Embassy in Ankara has issued a travel advisory for Emirati citizens planning to visit Turkey, following a recent fatal bus accident involving three Emirati nationals in northern Turkey.
The advisory urges Emirati travelers to register with the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ “Twajudi” service before their trip, ensure their passports have at least six months validity, and confirm with banks that their cards are usable internationally. Other recommendations include adhering strictly to local traffic laws, carrying copies of identification documents, and verifying vehicle documents match passport details.
Travelers are also encouraged to check and comply with any Turkish health or visa requirements well in advance, prefer air travel over road travel when possible, and stay updated on local weather, road conditions, and current news. They are advised to use reputable travel and tour companies and keep emergency contact numbers handy, including the UAE’s 24-hour emergency hotline for travelers in Turkey.
This guidance reflects a cautious approach following the tragic incident and ongoing safety concerns to help Emirati travelers mitigate risks while visiting Turkey.
In addition to the UAE advisory, international sources recommend exercising increased caution in Turkey due to risks including terrorism and localized unrest, particularly in eastern and southeastern regions. Street crime is generally low, but travelers should maintain routine precautions similar to those they would in the United States. The U.S. government restricts travel to certain provinces near conflict zones, but such restrictions are not directly referenced by the UAE.
Two Emirati citizens, Maryam Mohammed Ahmed Ibrahim (18) and Abdul Majid Mohammed Ahmed Ibrahim (32), were tragically killed in a bus accident near Balık Lake in Trabzon, northern Turkey. The injured individuals, Ibrahim Mohammed Ahmed Ibrahim (15), Samira Mohammed Abdul Rahman (53), and Mohammed Ahmed Ibrahim (60), were transported to a state hospital for treatment after an extensive rescue effort.
The accident occurred near a riverbed in the Çaykara district of Trabzon, and Gendarmerie units and emergency medical teams were dispatched to the scene. No further information about the cause of the bus accident was provided in the article.
Country-specific travel advisories are available on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' website and mobile app, and information on recognizing or exchanging Emirati driver's licenses is available through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' travel advisory platforms. Emirati travelers are advised to take measures to safeguard personal and public safety, and to comply with traffic laws to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.
- Travelers visiting Turkey should also be aware of other safety concerns beyond road travel, such as risks associated with terrorism and localized unrest, particularly in eastern and southeastern regions.
- For a comprehensive understanding of travel advisories and requirements in Turkey, Emirati travelers are encouraged to check general-news sources, in addition to the advisory issued by the UAE Embassy.
- It is essential for travelers to stay updated on political developments in Turkey, as these can significantly impact their travel plans and personal safety.
