Global travel disruptions, fuel impacts and security risks

Following recent military activity in the Middle East, the volatile security situation in the region continues to affect travel worldwide. Travel plans may be disrupted, even if you’re not travelling to, within or through the Middle East.

Impacts on travel worldwide

Fuel shortages and rationing

The situation has affected the global fuel supply. In some destinations, this may continue to lead to fuel shortages or temporary rationing measures.

This may impact:

local transportation and essential services
access to local goods and services
your ability to stay in a country

Flight disruptions

Because of fuel shortages, flights could be delayed, rerouted or cancelled regardless of your destination. Routes may be longer; travel costs may increase, including for flights, accommodations and meals; and flight availability may be impacted.

Changes can happen with little or no notice. Check with your airline or travel provider before leaving Canada and before your return trip.

Security implications

The tensions in the Middle East may increase security risks beyond the region.

There may be a higher risk of demonstrations and possible targeted attacks. Be especially alert in public locations such as tourist areas and places of worship, and near embassies and consulates. Locations linked to the United States or Israel have been at increased risk.

Stay aware of your surroundings, avoid demonstrations and large gatherings and follow the instructions of local authorities.

Before you go

The decision to travel abroad, especially to destinations where the Government of Canada recommends avoiding non-essential travel or all travel, is your choice and your sole responsibility. You must make your own informed decisions, including those that affect your safety and well-being when outside of Canada.

If you decide to travel and become stranded, you should not rely on the Government of Canada for financial assistance. You should be aware that our ability to provide assistance may be limited.

If you choose to travel despite global disruptions:

Consult our Travel Advice and Advisories for your destination and any transit points to evaluate how the situation may affect your security.
Verify your travel insurance coverage - Ensure your travel insurance includes coverage for trip cancellation and interruption. Before leaving Canada, read the terms and conditions of your policy carefully, particularly the limitations, exclusions and policy requirements. Confirm with your provider if there are any coverage exclusions or limitations related to fuel shortages or regional conflicts.
Have a contingency plan - Be prepared for your travel plans to change on short notice and have a plan in place in case you are delayed.
- This includes bringing extra medication in case of unexpected delays and having access to additional funds for unplanned stays, including for accommodations and meals.
Register your trip - Sign up for the Registration of Canadians Abroad service so we can contact you in an emergency.

Canadians living or retired abroad

If you live or are retired abroad, you should:

monitor local news closely, as fuel shortages could impact your ability to stay
ensure your travel documents and those of your family members are up to date, accessible and secure
know which documents you need and where to get them
contact local immigration authorities to ask about extensions if you are unable to leave a country as planned and your visa is about to expire

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