Australia issued a blanket new travel notice placing the United Arab Emirates alongside Mexico, Brazil, France, Egypt, India, Chile, and Thailand on its list of countries to exercise a high degree of caution against in the face of mounting threats from terror attacks, civil disturbances, violent crime, and regional instability. The travel notice is issued in the wake of increased terrorist attacks in public areas, continued protest and demonstrations, the risk posed by natural disasters, and mounting cases of petty and violent crime in the listed destinations. The notice calls upon Australians to exercise maximum vigilance, comply with local legislation, and anticipate abrupt disruptions.

Australia has updated its global travel guidance, urging citizens to exercise a high degree of caution when visiting eight major international destinations: United Arab Emirates, Mexico, Brazil, France, Egypt, India, Chile, and Thailand. These countries face a combination of elevated terror threats, civil unrest, rising crime rates, and environmental risks that may jeopardize the safety of travelers.

This coordinated alert underscores the Australian government’s growing concern over volatile global conditions. Travelers heading to these regions should take precautions, monitor local developments, and adhere strictly to local laws and emergency protocols.

United Arab Emirates

Status: Exercise a High Degree of Caution

The UAE presents a polished façade of modernity, but authorities warn of credible terrorism threats, particularly targeting military installations and public venues popular with tourists. Attacks may occur without warning.
Travelers should avoid demonstrations, which are banned unless officially sanctioned. Although crime rates remain low, isolated incidents of drink spiking, harassment, and bag snatching occur, especially at night.
Extreme weather is another concern. Temperatures can exceed 50°C between June and September, and sandstorms or flash floods may impact travel. Visitors should stay hydrated, seek shade, and follow official alerts.

Mexico

Status: Reconsider Your Need to Travel to Certain States

Australia highlights violent crime as a serious and persistent danger in Mexico. States like Chihuahua, Sinaloa, Guanajuato, Sonora, Colima, and Chiapas face ongoing issues with drug cartels, kidnappings, and armed robberies.
Officials advise travelers to refrain from driving after dark and to prioritize main toll highways or domestic flights when moving between urban centers.
Tourists should avoid drawing attention to valuables and be alert at ATMs.
The hurricane season from June to November adds further risk, potentially disrupting travel with floods and mudslides.

Brazil

Status: Exercise a High Degree of Caution

In Brazil, violent urban crime and political unrest remain central concerns. Muggings, assaults, and carjackings frequently occur, particularly during festivals like Carnival.
Travelers are strongly urged to avoid entering favelas, including those visited through guided tours, and to rely solely on authorized transportation services.
Ride-sharing services must be confirmed by license plate.
During the long wet season, landslides and floods may halt public transport and flights. Travelers must stay flexible and check weather updates regularly.

France

Status: Exercise a High Degree of Caution

France remains under its highest-level terror alert. Several recent attacks have targeted schools, places of worship, events, and transport hubs. Law enforcement remains highly visible throughout key urban areas, with an especially strong presence in Paris.

While France is generally safe, theft and sexual assault increase during high tourist seasons. Strikes and protests—sometimes violent—frequently disrupt services.
Avoid public demonstrations and remain cautious in busy locations where theft and unrest are common.

Egypt

Status: Exercise a High Degree of Caution

In Egypt, the risk of terrorist attacks, kidnapping, and sudden civil unrest is high. The North Sinai Governorate remains particularly dangerous, and the Rafah border with Gaza may close with little notice.
Tourist sites, especially religious or cultural landmarks, are potential targets. The government has recorded attacks in those areas resulting in casualties.
Travelers must avoid demonstrations and avoid drawing attention, particularly in politically sensitive zones. Australian authorities advise against non-essential travel in unstable areas.

India

Status: Do Not Travel to Jammu & Kashmir, Manipur, and Border Regions (Excluding Ladakh)

India offers many vibrant destinations, but travelers should completely avoid the Jammu and Kashmir, Manipur, and India–Pakistan border regions due to armed conflict, protests, and military tensions.
Even in safer regions, foreign visitors must remain cautious. Scams, sexual harassment, theft, and drink spiking are common in urban centers and tourist sites.
Australia urges travelers to use trusted transportation, avoid walking alone after dark, and stay clear of large public gatherings. Travelers should also prepare for heatwaves, dust storms, and monsoon floods.

Chile

Status: Exercise a High Degree of Caution

Chile frequently sees protests and civil unrest, especially near Plaza Italia, La Moneda, and urban centers like Valparaiso. While demonstrations often begin peacefully, they can escalate rapidly into violence.
Thefts, including on long-distance buses, are common. Tourists should stay alert and hold valuables at all times.
The country also faces natural hazards such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and wildfires. All travelers should have emergency plans and pay close attention to local alerts.

Thailand

Status: Exercise a High Degree of Caution / Reconsider Travel to Border Provinces

Thailand continues to attract global tourists, but safety concerns remain. The southern provinces of Yala, Pattani, and Narathiwat experience ongoing insurgent violence, and Australia recommends avoiding them.
Terrorist threats exist in busy urban centers and tourist zones. Drink spiking and credit card fraud are common, particularly in nightlife settings.
Following a recent 7.7 magnitude earthquake in nearby Myanmar, Thailand has ordered building safety assessments, which may affect infrastructure in cities like Bangkok.
From 1 May 2025, all travelers must complete a Thailand Digital Arrival Card before entry.

Australia included the UAE in its new travel advisory list with Mexico, Brazil, France, Egypt, India, Chile, and Thailand based on increased threats from terrorists, civil unrest, and elevated regional security threats to the safety of travelers.

Australia’s comprehensive travel alert underscores a clear message: global travel in 2025 requires increased vigilance, thorough preparation, and full compliance with destination-specific regulations.

From terrorist activity and crime to natural disasters and civil unrest, travelers to the UAE, Mexico, Brazil, France, Egypt, India, Chile, and Thailand should remain informed, cautious, and ready to adjust their plans at short notice.

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