New Zealand has lowered its travel advisory for the United Arab Emirates (UAE), shifting from Level 3, which advised against non-essential travel, to Level 2, recommending increased caution. This adjustment allows New Zealanders to both visit and transit through the UAE while staying alert to evolving security conditions.
Richard Kay, New Zealand’s Ambassador to the UAE, expressed approval of the revised travel guidance, suggesting it would encourage travel between the two nations. The update aligns with the UAE’s ongoing efforts to rejuvenate its tourism industry, which had been disrupted by regional conflicts.
In a sign of recovery, Dubai has witnessed a rebound in tourism, with August seeing 869,000 international overnight visitors, the highest monthly total since February. Hotel occupancy rates in the city also saw an uptick, reaching 66 percent in August, compared to just 36 percent in March.
The UAE is actively seeking the removal of travel advisories from various countries to bolster its tourism and aviation sectors. Although several nations have eased their warnings, some continue to advise heightened caution or restrict non-essential travel.
The easing of New Zealand’s advisory is anticipated to boost travel demand between the two countries, further supporting the UAE’s tourism sector as it strives to recover to pre-conflict levels.