Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has advised citizens to temporarily refrain from traveling to Middle Eastern countries, QazMonitor reports.
The recommendation will remain in effect until active hostilities cease and the situation in the region stabilizes. The ministry noted that the decision is linked to significant restrictions in airspace across the region.
Kazakhstan’s diplomatic missions in the relevant countries have been placed on heightened alert and are providing necessary consular and legal assistance to citizens. Authorities are also updating lists of Kazakh citizens currently in the region, including those in transit zones. Special messaging channels have been created to provide timely information and respond to inquiries.
According to the Tourism Kamkor guarantee system, accommodation for organized tourists in hotels will be covered by tour operators participating in the program. Possible evacuation routes and measures to assist citizens in escalation zones are also being considered.
The organization reported that since February 28 the issuance of tour codes for trips to several Middle Eastern countries has been suspended. The restriction applies to travel to Iran, Israel, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Jordan, and Oman.
The measures are temporary and will remain in place until the situation stabilizes and travel safety is confirmed. Tour operators have been advised not to form or sell travel packages to these destinations until further notice.
Authorities also noted that tourists traveling to the Middle East after February 28 will not be covered by the tourist rights guarantee system. Citizens seeking to cancel or reschedule trips, or request refunds, are advised to contact the travel agencies where the tours were purchased.