Latest Travel Updates - information for UQ travellers
This update remains current unless otherwise stated.
Update 13 October 2026 - Global travel disruptions
The ongoing situation in the Middle East has resulted in significant global travel disruptions. Delays, cancellations and airspace changes may occur quickly and without notice.
Travel restrictions - Middle East
DFAT Smartraveller advice was updated on 08 October 2026, for Qatar and United Arab Emirates (UAE) to DFAT level 2-Exercise a high degree of caution.
While advice levels have reduced, the overall risk environment remains volatile. Accordingly, travel to or via Qatar and UAE (including Doha, Dubai and Abu Dhabi) remains prohibited under UQ's current Middle East travel restrictions.
Travel to or transit via Middle East destinations rated “Reconsider your need to travel” and “Do not travel” is still not permitted. This currently includes Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Oman and Israel. This applies to all UQ travellers, staff and students regardless of travel date, funding source or booking channel.
There are other Middle Eastern countries and locations not specifically listed above that may also be subject to DFAT travel advisories. Travellers should refer to the DFAT Smartraveller website for the latest advice and ensure they comply with UQ Travel requirements before making any travel arrangements.
Be aware that the current insurance position remains unchanged. Travel disruption and cancellation due to re-escalation of the security situation in the region may be considered foreseeable, and resulting costs would then not be covered by travel insurance. Any uninsured costs resulting from travel disruption, cancellation, or itinerary changes will be the responsibility of the traveller and/or the relevant business unit.
All other UQ approved international travel
For travel to all UQ approved locations, travellers should be aware there is a heightened risk globally, particularly in places of worship, large gatherings, public transport, embassies and government facilities. Travellers are advised to remain vigilant when travelling internationally.
Prior to departure travellers are advised to:
- Review UQ Travel policy (or Student Travel procedure) and approval requirements.
- Check the current advice on Smartraveller and subscribe to updates.
- Download the International SOS mobile app to receive alerts and security updates.
While travelling closely monitor updates from:
Emergency support (24/7)
UQ travellers have access to 24/7 emergency assistance through International SOS:
Phone: +61 2 9372 2468 (reverse charge available)
Email: sydney@internationalsos.com
Quote UQ membership number: 12AYCA778031