Safety Radar

Air defences engaged incoming missiles and drones over multiple Gulf hubs on July 12. Airports remain largely operational, but Air Canada, British Airways and Lufthansa have suspended service to Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Doha into the autumn, and reroutes are adding 2-3 hours to long-haul flights. Build in buffer time for connections, monitor your airline, keep flexible tickets, and watch for further escalation.

Following the onset of U.S.–Iran hostilities in February 2026, Oman has faced an elevated threat from potential Iranian drone and missile strikes, with significant disruptions to commercial airspace. This authorized departure (not an ordered departure) allows non-essential U.S. government staff to leave voluntarily — a meaningful escalation signal within the existing Level 3 advisory. The Do Not Travel warning applies to the Yemen border zone. Independent travelers visiting Muscat should monitor flight schedules daily, confirm their trip insurance covers conflict-related disruptions, and register with the STEP program at step.state.gov.

The downgrade reflects easing of the broader Middle East conflict but volatile conditions persist. Travel to the Gaza border zone, areas near Lebanon, and near Syria's border remains strongly advised against. Travelers to Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, or Eilat should monitor conditions daily, register with their consulate, and maintain clear evacuation plans. The situation can deteriorate rapidly.

The FTC flags AI-generated booking sites with fake reviews and SSL certificates delivered as "confirmation" messages, while INTERPOL warns of "quishing" — fraudulent QR codes overlaid on legitimate ones at tourist sites. Type booking URLs directly or use official apps, verify QR destinations before entering card details, and pay by credit card for dispute rights. 2025 saw 64,000+ travel-fraud reports and ~$274M in losses.

The scam surges around summer schedule changes: a traveler gets a legitimate "your connection changed" email, the rebooking link fails, they search for the airline's phone number, and a sponsored/fake listing connects them to a fraudster. Because the victim authorizes the charge, card fraud protection often will not cover it. Never dial a number from a search ad — use the number on your ticket, the airline's official app, or the back of your card.

A viral video this week reignited attention on the long-running Montmartre bracelet scam. Do not let anyone touch your wrist or take anything "free" from a stranger; keep hands in pockets, say a firm "no," and walk away. If surrounded, move toward a crowded café or shop entrance.

Peak-season crowds and heat draw organized theft crews to major landmarks and transit hubs. Keep valuables in a zipped inner pocket or money belt, stay alert for distraction tactics (friendship-bracelet touts, fake charity petitions, the dropped-ring ploy), and be especially vigilant on crowded metro cars and at ticket machines.

Thieves work busy tourist zones and nightlife areas, targeting people who look distracted, overloaded with bags, or intoxicated. Use an anti-theft cross-body bag, keep phones off café tables, and stay alert in crowds around Palma Cathedral and the old town.