UK Government Red Alert to citizens about terrorist threat in Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, UAE
Report based on UK Intelligence Alert issued on November 12, 2003
Kuwait - Expect new Terror Strikes?
SUMMARYThe UK intelligence agencies judge that there is a significant threat from terrorism in Kuwait. "You should review your security arrangements carefully. You should remain vigilant, particularly in public places. This advice is reflected in a warden's notice to British residents in Kuwait," said the latest security alert from the UK Government.
SAFETY AND SECURITY
Terrorism
We judge that there is a significant threat from terrorism against western, including British targets. Early this year and late last year there were three terrorist attacks in Kuwait, which have resulted in the deaths of US nationals. We are particularly concerned about potential threats to places where westerners might gather.
You should review your security arrangements carefully. You should remain vigilant, particularly in public places. You are also advised to read: Security and General Tips and Risk of Terrorism and check the British Embassy website: http://www.britishembassy-kuwait.org/.
Crime
Some 4,000 British nationals live in Kuwait, and we estimate over 30,000 visit each year. The vast majority enjoy a trouble-free stay.
Political Situation
Developments in Iraq and on the Middle East Peace Process continue to have an impact on local public opinion in the region and this might be expressed by some people. You should follow news reports and be alert to regional developments. You should take sensible precautions for your personal safety and avoid public gatherings and demonstrations.
Local Travel
Only authorised road border crossing points into Iraq and Saudi Arabia should be used. Any other unauthorised movement in the vicinity of borders is illegal and dangerous: the area is patrolled by armed border guards. Travellers planning to cross the border from Kuwait into Iraq should ensure that they have the correct paperwork. The Embassy can advise on this.
Landmines and other hazardous ordnance are still present in Kuwait. When travelling outside Kuwait City it is advisable to keep to tarmac roads. Care should be taken when using beaches and picnic spots. Even where officially cleared, there is still a danger from unexploded ordnance. Do not pick up any strange metal, plastic or other objects lying around. Do not souvenir hunt for war memorabilia.
Road Safety
Driving is hazardous. Many drivers exceed speed limits, switch lanes without warning, frequently ignore traffic lights and speak on their mobile phones while driving with scant attention to other road users. Constant vigilance is essential.
LOCAL LAWS AND CUSTOMS
Passports or Kuwait civil identification cards (for those who have them) should be carried at all times.You can drive on an International Driving Licence. Third party insurance is compulsory. Anyone applying for residence in Kuwait can also drive on an International Driving Licence until such time as the residency permit is issued. Thereafter, a Kuwaiti driving licence is required.
Any driver who has an accident must stay with the vehicle and not attempt to move it. It is an offence to leave the scene of an accident before the police arrive.
Kuwait is a Muslim state and Islamic customs, in public, are strictly observed. The holy month of Ramadan began on 27 October 2003. Until it ends in late November, you should observe the Muslim tradition of not eating, drinking or smoking in public from sunrise to sunset each day. The law stipulates that a custodial sentence of up to one month or a 100 Kuwaiti Dinar fine be imposed on anyone who eats, drinks or smokes in public during daylight hours in Ramadan.
The import and use of narcotics, alcohol, pork products and obscene material are forbidden and can lead to imprisonment. Penalties for drug trafficking include the death sentence. Drunken behaviour in public or driving under the influence of alcohol is punishable by a fine or imprisonment and/or deportation and the withdrawal of the driving licence. In public, general modesty of behaviour and dress is expected. Women who wear shorts or tight-fitting clothes, in particular in downtown areas, are likely to attract unwelcome attention.
Photography near government, military and industrial sites, particularly oil fields, is forbidden. "Bouncing" cheques is illegal and the law does not provide for offenders to be released from custody on bail. "Post dated" cheques can be banked immediately.
Homosexual behaviour is illegal. So is any public display of affection between men and women.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
British nationals require a visa to enter Kuwait. Visas should be obtained in advance from a Kuwaiti embassy (Kuwaiti Representation in the UK.), or arranged through a sponsor/host in Kuwait. (Some hotels will arrange visas for guests booked in with them. Kuwait Airways can also arrange them for their passengers.)
If you have an Israeli stamp in your passports you may be refused visas/entry to Kuwait.
You should not overstay your welcome and should leave Kuwait by the date stamped in your passports. This will usually be thirty days after first arrival. Failure to do so will result in a fine for each day overstayed and possibly a ban from returning to Kuwait in the future.
Kuwait has introduced restrictions on visitors from Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) affected countries. You should contact a Kuwaiti Embassy for advice before travelling.
HEALTH
There is a state medical service with local clinics and several good hospitals. There are also a number of doctors and dentists in private practice/hospitals. Fees are controlled by the State and are expensive.
For further information on health, check the Department of Health’s website at: http://www.doh.gov.uk/traveladvice/
GENERAL
You should ensure you have adequate medical and travel insurance.
Anyone involved in a commercial dispute with a Kuwaiti company or individual may be prevented from leaving the country pending resolution of the dispute.
It is common practice for the passports of foreign nationals resident in Kuwait to be retained by sponsors. You should keep a copy of your passport.
British nationals are strongly advised to register with the British Embassy and to follow local advice issued by the Embassy and its wardens.
United Arab Emirates Not Free From Terrorists Strike
SUMMARY"We judge that there is a significant threat from terrorism. You should review your security arrangements carefully. You should remain vigilant, particularly in public places.
SAFETY AND SECURITY
Terrorism
We judge that there is a significant threat from terrorism against western, including British, targets. We are particularly concerned about potential threats to places of entertainment where westerners might gather.
You should review your security arrangements carefully. You should remain vigilant, particularly in public places. You should read: Security and General Tips and Risk of Terrorism and check the British Embassy website: United Arab Emirates: British Embassies Abu Dhabi / Dubai
Crime
Some 500,000 British nationals visited the UAE in 2002 and 48,000 live there. The vast majority enjoyed a trouble-free stay. Although incidents are not common, female visitors should take care when travelling alone at night and are advised to use one of the reputable taxi companies.
Political Situation
Developments in Iraq and on the Middle East Peace Process continue to have an impact on local public opinion in the region and this might be expressed by some people. You should follow news reports and be alert to regional developments. You should take sensible precautions for your personal safety and avoid public gatherings and demonstrations.
Road Safety
Excursions to the desert can be dangerous unless undertaken in adequately equipped 4 x 4 vehicles. You should always travel in convoy with other cars, take a supply of water, a mobile telephone if you have one and leave travel plans with friends or relatives.
LOCAL LAWS AND CUSTOMS
The importation of narcotics, pork products and pornographic books and material is forbidden. Videos are subject to scrutiny and may be censored.
The penalties for drug trafficking, smuggling and possession are severe. The presence of drugs in the system is counted as possession and carries a minimum sentence of four years.
It is a punishable offence to drink or to be drunk in public. Offenders may incur a prison sentence, fine and deportation.
Homosexual behaviour is illegal in the UAE.
You should dress modestly, behave courteously and respect local customs and sensitivities. The holy month of Ramadan will start in late October 2003. During this time, you should observe the Muslim tradition of not eating, drinking or smoking in public from sunrise to sunset each day.
With the exception of rental cars in Abu Dhabi, driving is not permitted on a valid UK licence or International Driving licence. In Abu Dhabi, visitors can drive hire cars using a UK Internationals Driver’s licence. In Dubai, a visitor can drive a hire care only with a valid local temporary licence. This can be arranged by the rental company on production of a valid UK licence or a valid International licence issued in the UK. Once visitors obtain a residency visa, they must contact the local Traffic Department to obtain a full UAE driving licence, as they will no longer be permitted to drive on a UK or temporary licence.
If you have a motor accident, remain with your vehicle. It is an offence to leave the scene of the accident or move your vehicle before the police have arrived. Even minor expressions of ‘road rage’, such as rude gestures, can attract significant penalties. It is strongly in your own interests to display calm at all times.
It is an offence in the UAE to drink and drive. There is no legal limit for alcohol when driving (unlike in the UK). If any trace is found in the driver’s blood, the driver is likely to be sentenced to a minimum of one month’s detention. If the offender is Muslim, sentences in some Emirates can be very severe. In addition, the driver’s car insurance can be invalidated, leaving the driver personally liable for any damage and compensation payments, e.g. for personal injury to, or the death of, another party. The courts take a very serious view of drink driving, however small the traces of alcohol involved, and this can influence verdicts on liability for accidents. If in the slightest doubt, take a taxi.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
British citizens do not require a visa for the UAE but if you plan to stay longer than 60 days, contact the UAE Immigration officials on arrival. All other British passport holders must obtain a visa before travelling to the UAE (UAE Representation in the UK).
GENERAL
Potential job seekers should be aware that those testing HIV positive whilst applying for their residence visa are detained prior to deportation. There is no appeal process. Taking a blood test shortly before travelling to the UAE would therefore be advisable.
British Embassy, Abu Dhabi (+971 (2) 610 1100), or British Embassy, Dubai (+971 (4) 309 4444).
We judge that there is a high threat from terrorism. You should review your security arrangements carefully. You should remain vigilant, particularly in public places. This advice is reflected in a warden's notice to British residents in Qatar.
SAFETY AND SECURITY
Terrorism
We judge that there is a high threat from terrorism against western, including British, targets.
We are particularly concerned about potential threats to places where westerners might gather.
You should review your security arrangements carefully. You should remain vigilant, particularly in public places. You should read: Security and General Tips and Risk of Terrorism and check the British Embassy website: http://www.british-in-qatar.com.
Crime
Some 4,500 British nationals live in Qatar, and 30,000 visited in 2002. The vast majority enjoyed a trouble-free stay. Although incidents are not common, female visitors should take care when travelling alone at night and are advised to use one of the reputable taxi companies.
Political Situation
Developments in Iraq and on the Middle East Peace Process continue to have an impact on local public opinion in the region and this might be expressed by some people. You should follow news reports and be alert to regional developments. You should take sensible precautions for your personal safety and avoid public gatherings and demonstrations.
Local Travel
Excursions to the desert can be hazardous unless undertaken in an adequately equipped 4 x 4 vehicle. Always travel in convoy with other cars, take a supply of water, a mobile telephone if you have one and leave travel plans with friends or relatives.
LOCAL LAWS AND CUSTOMS
The importation of narcotics, alcohol, pork products and religious books and material is forbidden. Videos are subject to scrutiny and may be censored. In particular, the penalties for possession of or trade in drugs are severe, often resulting in prison sentences. It is a punishable offence to drink alcohol or be drunk in public. Offenders may incur a prison sentence or deportation.
You should dress modestly, behave courteously and respect local customs and sensitivities.
Homosexual behaviour is illegal in Qatar.
The holy month of Ramadan will start in late October 2003. During this time you should observe the Muslim traditions of not eating, drinking or smoking in public from sunrise to sunset each day.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
British visitors can obtain single entry short stay visas (valid for 21 days) at the airport on arrival. Longer-term visitors must obtain a valid visa from their nearest Qatari Embassy: before travelling. Qatari Representation in London Overstaying is a serious matter. For those who do the penalties are expensive.
Those intending to live in Qatar should register at the British Embassy in Doha. This can now be done on line at: http://www.british-in-qatar.com or in person by completion of a registration card.
HEALTH
Medical treatment is adequate but can be expensive. You should ensure that you have comprehensive medical and travel insurance.
For further information on health, check the Department of Health’s website at: http://www.doh.gov.uk/traveladvice/
GENERAL
There is no need for short-term visitors to register. They are, however, welcome to contact the British Embassy in Doha for advice.
We advise British nationals against all but essential travel to Saudi Arabia. Terrorists attacked the Muhayya residential compound in western Riyadh on the night 8/9 November. Casualty figures remain uncertain. The terrorist threat remains high and we continue to believe terrorists are planning further attacks.
If you choose to travel to, or remain in, Saudi Arabia you should take all necessary steps to protect your safety and should make sure you have confidence in your individual security arrangements.
You should maintain a high level of vigilance, particularly in public places frequented by foreigners such as hotels, restaurants and shopping malls. You should adopt a low profile and avoid public gatherings which could lead to disorder.
You should remember that Islamic law is strictly enforced in Saudi Arabia.
SAFETY AND SECURITY
Terrorism
Terrorists attacked the Muhayya residential compound in western Riyadh on the night of 8/9 November. Casualty figures remain uncertain. We have accounted for the three British nationals we know are residents there. None was seriously injured.
This attack follows co-ordinated bomb attacks against residential compounds in Riyadh on 12 May, which resulted in the death of more than 30 people, including two British nationals. Many more were injured.
The terrorist threat across Saudi Arabia remains high and we continue to believe terrorists are planning further attacks.
Following credible information of a threat to British aviation interests, UK air services were suspended to Riyadh and Jedda on 13 August. The Saudi authorities have since further increased airport security and UK air services resumed on 6 September.
Prior to the attacks of 12 May, a number of British nationals and other Westerners were killed or injured in a series of smaller scale bombings in Riyadh and al Khobar. The most recent fatal incident in this series killed a German national in Riyadh in September 2002. These explosions have varied: some were car bombs; one was a parcel bomb; others exploded in shopping areas.
In February 2003, a British national was shot and killed while his car was at traffic lights in Riyadh. There have been a number of other recent incidents in which shots were fired at British nationals and other Westerners.
We advise against all but essential travel to Saudi Arabia. If you choose to travel to, or remain in, Saudi Arabia, you should take all necessary steps to protect your safety and should make sure you have confidence in your individual security arrangements.
You should maintain a high level of vigilance, particularly in public places frequented by foreigners such as hotels, restaurants and shopping malls. Visitors to military buildings and bases should take special care. You should take sensible precautions for your personal and vehicle safety. British residents in Saudi Arabia are given specific guidance, including through warden's notices. Advice is available to visitors from the British Embassy in Riyadh, the British Consulate General in Jedda and from the Embassy website: http://www.britishembassy.gov.uk/saudiarabia (click on "Consular"). You are also advised to read: Security and General Tips and Risk of Terrorism. You should follow news reports and be alert to regional developments. Any increase in regional tension might affect travel advice.
Political Situation
A demonstration in Riyadh on 14 October resulted in the arrest of a reported 150 of those involved. You should follow local news and be alert to the possibility of further demonstrations. You should take sensible precautions and avoid public gatherings, which could lead to disorder.
Pilgrimage
Pilgrims performing Umrah and Hajj can only travel with accredited UK travel agencies, which have signed contracts with Saudi service providers. Pilgrims should confirm the full itinerary before departing the United Kingdom. British pilgrims, who find themselves in difficulties, or their relatives, should contact the British Consulate-General in Jedda (tel: +966 2 622 5550/5557/5558).
Pilgrims should be aware that there is an increase in the number of reported cases of pickpocketing and other forms of theft in Mecca, particularly in the region of the Grand Mosque, and in Medina, and should take additional care with travel documents, tickets and other valuables while visiting these two areas. We also recommend that you should make a copy of your passport before travel, and keep it in a safe place. (Also see the section on Health below.)
There have been acts of piracy and armed robbery against ships in and around the Red Sea. Mariners should take appropriate precautions.
LOCAL LAWS AND CUSTOMS
Saudi Arabia is a Muslim country in which Islamic law is strictly enforced. The public practice of any form of religion other than Islam, or proselytising, is not permitted. The importation and use of narcotics, alcohol, pork products and religious books (apart from the Qu'ran) and artefacts are forbidden. Islamic codes of behaviour and dress are also enforced rigorously. You should respect them fully.
In particular, the penalties for the possession of, or trade in alcohol are severe. Both result in prison sentences. The punishment for importing drugs includes the death penalty.
The Saudi legal system differs in many ways from the UK. Suspects can be held without charge and those detained have in the past not been allowed legal representation. Consular staff will seek to visit British nationals as soon as they are aware of the case. However, in some instances they have not been permitted to do so immediately or have had limits applied to access once granted. We have raised our concern about reports of mistreatment of some suspects during their detention.
Photography of government buildings, military installations and palaces is not allowed. Visitors should avoid photographing local people. It is illegal for women to drive.
Anyone involved in a commercial dispute with a Saudi company or individual may be prevented from leaving the country pending resolution of the dispute.
Passports are often retained by sponsors or government bodies for official purposes. You should carry a photocopy of your passport.
It is illegal to hold two passports in Saudi Arabia: second passports will be confiscated by the immigration authorities if they are discovered.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
All visitors, including pilgrims, require a visa to enter Saudi Arabia. In Line with recent changes to the visa process, all applicants should now apply for visas through a visa agency accredited to the royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia. Details of the process and agencies can be obtained from the royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia: Saudi representation in the UK.
British residents in Saudi Arabia should remember that they require a valid exit/re-entry permit from the Saudi Ministry of Interior in order to leave the country.
On occasion, Saudi visas have been refused when passports have reflected travel to Israel or indicated an Israeli birthplace.Women visitors and residents are required to be met by their sponsor upon arrival. Women travelling alone, who are not met by sponsors, have experienced delays before being allowed to enter the country or to continue on other flights.
HEALTH
There have been cases of Rift Valley Fever (RVF) in South-West Saudi Arabia, mainly in the Jizan area. There have also been cases of cerebral malaria but only in Jizan itself. The outbreaks of cerebral malaria are local and do not affect Jedda or any other areas of Saudi Arabia. Visitors considering going to the Jizan region should seek medical advice on Rift Valley Fever and cerebral malaria before travelling.
You should use mosquito repellents and nets and stay away from any areas in South-West Saudi Arabia with high concentrations of mosquitoes. Particularly during Hajj and Ramadan, contagious diseases spread quickly, and pilgrims should take basic medicines with them and consume adequate liquids and salts. ACWY quadrivalent meningococcal vaccine is mandatory for people coming to perform Hajj and Umrah. This is a new requirement. Those who have already been immunised against meningitis may require further vaccinations to meet the new standards. You should check with your GP for specific advice.
For further information on health, check the Department of Health’s website at http://www.doh.gov.uk/traveladvice/
GENERAL
You should ensure that you have adequate medical and travel insurance.Residents and longer-term visitors are strongly advised to register with the British Embassy in Riyadh (tel: +966 1 488 0077), or Consulate-General in Jedda (tel: +966 2 622 5550).
