Travel advisory for Fiji citizens in Middle East

Due to the volatile security situation, we continue to recommend reconsidering your need to travel to Israel and further recommend do not travel to some areas, including border areas with Lebanon. You should also reconsider whether you need to remain in Israel and, if not, depart when it’s safe to do so.

There’s a high threat of military and terrorist attacks against Israel and Israeli interests across the region. The security situation could deteriorate quickly, with little or no notice. This situation has and may continue to result in airspace closures, flight cancellations and diversions, and other travel disruptions. Some airlines have reduced and suspended flights to and from Ben Gurion International Airport in August. Check with your airline for the latest information.

Do not travel to Gaza, border areas with Gaza, border areas with Lebanon and the West Bank (excluding East Jerusalem) due to the volatile security situation.

The ongoing military action in the Occupied Palestinian Territories could lead to increased tensions in other locations in the Middle East.

Terrorist attacks can occur anywhere at any time. Be alert to personal safety risks. Monitor local media and public safety information updates.

If you’re an Fiji citizen or permanent resident in Israel or the Occupied Palestinian Territories, you can register with the Department of Foreign Affairs crisis registration portal. See the ‘Safety’ section for details on how to register.

Due to the current security situation and the risk of it further deteriorating, MFA has temporarily suspended all non-essential in-country travel outside Tel Aviv, Jerusalem and Ramallah for Fiji officials and their families posted to Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories. Dependants of Fiji officials continue to have the option of voluntary departure to return to Fiji.

We advise:

Reconsider your need to travel to Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories overall due to the volatile security situation, including the threat of terrorism, armed conflict and civil unrest.

Higher levels apply in some areas.

Our overall travel advice level for Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories remains at reconsider your need to travel, with higher levels applied to some areas. You should also consider whether you need to remain in country, and if not, depart when it’s safe to do so.

Do not travel to Gaza, border areas with Gaza, border areas with Lebanon and the West Bank (excluding East Jerusalem), due to the volatile security situation.

There’s a high threat of military reprisals and terrorist attacks against Israel and Israeli interests across the region. Military attacks may result in airspace closures, flight cancellations and diversions and other travel disruptions. Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion International Airport may pause operations due to heightened security concerns at any time. Fijians who want to leave are encouraged to take the first available option.

Israel has a naval blockade in place along the coast of Gaza. Don’t join others seeking to break the blockade. Previous attempts to break the blockade have resulted in death, injury, arrest or deportation of foreigners (see ‘Full advice’).

GPS signals may be blocked in parts of Israel, disrupting navigational apps.

Land border crossings to Jordan are open but may close at short notice.

In an attack or other armed conflict, you should follow the advice of local authorities. See our general advice on protecting your safety: There’s an armed conflict, and monitor local media and public safety information updates through the National Emergency Portal (accessible in Israel only).

If you’re a Fiji citizen or permanent resident in Israel or the Occupied Palestinian Territories you can register on MFA registration portal. Keep your registration details up to date so we can contact you with important updates.
Since 7 October, Israeli Defense Forces have been conducting major operations, including in and around Gaza and areas near the northern border with Lebanon.

Israel is a target for terrorism, rocket fire and military confrontation. Terrorist attacks could happen at any time or anywhere. Always be alert. Have an exit plan. There are tensions and security risks close to Israel’s borders with Lebanon, Syria and Egypt. There are ongoing threats of rocket attacks and military activity. Authorities are monitoring security on Israel’s northern border.

Security in the West Bank is unpredictable. This includes Nablus, Jenin, Bethlehem, Hebron, Jericho and Ramallah. Tensions are high. Violence occurs. Take care around West Bank checkpoints. If you’re in the West Bank during military action or civil unrest, stay in a safe place indoors and away from windows. Take care when visiting the Old City in Jerusalem. Transportation and other services could be affected. Be alert to your surroundings and have an exit plan. Monitor media for the latest updates.

Our ability to provide consular help in Gaza is extremely limited. If you’re in Gaza, be aware of your surroundings and review your personal security plans. Monitor local media (including social media), UN alerts, and your own organisation’s security contacts for information about changing security conditions and alerts to seek shelter. If it’s possible to leave, carefully consider the safest means.
The Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt may be closed or have highly restricted access for long periods and is subject to change at short notice. It has been subject to air strikes during the current Gaza conflict.

Infectious diseases are a risk. Drink boiled or bottled water.

West Nile virus can occur. There’s no vaccine to prevent it. Use insect repellent. Make sure your accommodation is insect-proof.

The standard of medical facilities in Israel is reasonable. Facilities in the West Bank and Gaza are limited and if you become seriously ill or injured, you may need to seek evacuation. Make sure your travel insurance covers this.

The Sabbath in Israel happens from sunset Friday until sunset Saturday. In Orthodox neighbourhoods, driving or using a mobile phone or digital camera on the Sabbath may offend people.

Don’t use or carry illegal drugs. Penalties are severe.

You must always carry originals or copies of your passport, visa or entry permit in the Occupied Palestinian Territories.

Palestinian law has the death penalty for some crimes including treason, helping an enemy and murder.

Gaza has Islamic law. Drinking alcohol and homosexual acts are illegal. Take care not to offend in Gaza and the West Bank. Avoid public displays of affection. Dress conservatively.

From 1 January 2025, all foreign nationals must have either an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA-IL) or a visa before arriving in Israel. To check your eligibility and to apply, visit the ETA-IL website. See Travel for more information.

Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion International Airport remains open and commercial flights are available. The airport may pause operations due to heightened security concerns. This may cause flight delays or cancellations. Check with your airline for the latest updates before travelling. GPS signals may be blocked in parts of Israel. This can cause disruption to navigational apps and devices.

Land border crossings to Jordan are open but may close at short notice. See Full advice: Travel for more information on border crossings into Jordan. Check Israeli government websites, and the website of the country of planned travel to make sure border crossings are open before travel.

The Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt may be closed or have highly restricted access for long periods and is subject to change at short notice. It has been subject to attacks, including air strikes, during the current Gaza conflict.

By law, you’re considered Israeli if one or both of your parents are Israeli. Israeli citizens must enter and leave on an Israeli passport. Authorities will consider you a Palestinian national if you currently hold, or used to hold, a Palestinian ID card. You may need to get a Palestinian travel document.

Local contacts

  • The Consular Services Charter details what we can and can’t do to help you overseas.
  • For consular help, contact the Fiji Embassy in Dubai or the Fiji Representative Office in Ramallah (TBC).
  • To stay up to date with local information, follow the Embassy’s social media accounts.

Full advice

  • Safety
  • Crisis registration
  • Security situation
  • Israel’s borders with neighbouring states
  • Civil unrest and political tension
  • Terrorism
  • Kidnapping
  • Crime

Tours and adventure activities

Climate and natural disasters

Health

  • Travel Insurance
  • Physical and mental health
  • Medication
  • Health risks
  • Medical care

Local laws

  • Local law
  • Fiji laws
  • Dual citizenship
  • Local customs

Travel

  • Flight and road routes out of Israel
  • Gaza
  • Visas and border measures
  • Other formalities
  • Travel restrictions
  • Passport
  • Money
  • Local travel

Local contacts

  • Emergencies
  • Consular contacts