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Dubai Launches ‘A Dubai Invite’ Campaign But FCDO Advice Changes as Tensions Rise
The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has updated its travel advice for the United Arab Emirates, warning that travellers should be prepared for possible disruption as tensions across the Middle East remain heightened.
While this isn’t a “Do Not Travel” warning, you should keep a close eye on the latest advice as flight cancellations, periodic airspace closures and other disruption remain possible amid continued tensions across the Middle East.
The page now states:
“There is a risk of more attacks and unforeseen escalation in the region. Before the ceasefire, the Iranian regime had stated its intention to target locations associated with the US and Israel, including organisations, businesses, facilities, and institutions.”
It has also added:
“The greatest risk is from falling debris caused by intercepts, and you are safest inside a secure structure.”
The changes follow recent strikes and retaliatory attacks involving Iran, including attacks on US military and civilian infrastructure across the region.
Separately, Dubai is continuing its push to attract more visitors. Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism has launched a new ‘A Dubai Invite’ campaign, giving residents with a valid Emirates ID the chance to nominate up to five non-resident friends or family members before 31st October.
Guests must travel on a tourist visa. Visit Dubai has also put out the message “You’re their best reason to visit” to residents. There are a number of rewards available until the end of the year worth up to £610 (AED 3,000), such as 45% off at the Meliá Desert Palm, a free night at selected IHG hotels, and more.
Things can change very quickly in the region at the moment, so make sure you’re up to date with the current situation before you visit, even if you’re just quickly connecting via the UAE. Keep a close eye on airline and FCDO updates and make sure you’re signed up for email updates too.
Read the updated FCDO advice here >>>
IHG Offer: 10,000 Bonus Points Every Two Nights at Ruby Hotels
Ruby Hotels is a relatively new addition to the IHG portfolio, becoming the group’s 20th brand following its acquisition in February 2025. To encourage members to try the brand, IHG has launched a tempting bonus points promotion.
You can now earn 10,000 IHG Rewards Points for every two qualifying nights you stay until 4th November 2026, though you must register for the promotion first.
The nights do not need to be consecutive, and you can earn the bonus as many times as you like, though you won’t earn the bonus on reward nights or nights purchased with Points & Cash.
IHG describes Ruby as “laid-back comfort in characterful surroundings” and focuses on things travellers value. Think stylish design, comfortable beds, powerful showers and central city locations while keeping prices competitive. The hotels are boutique-style and have 24-hour bars and relaxed communal spaces.
There are currently 20 Ruby hotels, including three in London, nine in Germany and the rest in Austria, Ireland, Switzerland, the Netherlands and Italy. Rates for the London hotels range from £99-£309 per night. It’s also worth noting that Ruby Hotels have a reduced range of IHG One Rewards Elite benefits compared with most other IHG brands.
With IHG redemptions starting at just 5,000 points, this is a fantastic offer and worth giving Ruby Hotels a try. Remember, you’ll also earn the usual points and Elite bonus points on top of that. If you have a London trip or a European city break planned, it’s worth seeing if there’s a Ruby hotel where you’re planning to stay.
Register for the promotion here >>>
Save Up to £175 on Virgin Atlantic Holidays Hotel-Only Bookings
You can now save up to £175 with Virgin Atlantic Holidays using the promo code HOTELONLY. You must book your stay by 26th August 2026 and travel before 31st July 2027.
Your savings depend on the value of your booking, including:
| Spend | Discount | Maximum percentage off |
|---|---|---|
| £750 to £1,499 | £25 | 3.33% |
| £1,500 to £2,249 | £60 | 4.00% |
| £2,250 to £2,999 | £100 | 4.44% |
| £3,000 to £3,749 | £140 | 4.67% |
| £3,750 + | £175 | 4.67% |
The discounts are particularly worthwhile if you’re planning a longer stay or looking at a more high-end hotel. For example, when searching, I dropped the price of Sandals Antigua from £4,096 to £3,921.
Booking your hotel via Virgin Atlantic Holidays also has further benefits, such as paying just a £175 per person deposit when you book and earning Virgin Points on your booking. There are also some extra benefits at selected hotels, such as waived resort fees and complimentary upgrades.
If you already have a Virgin Holidays destination in mind, it’s worth checking whether a hotel-only booking works for your trip. With travel valid until 31st July 2027, there’s plenty of flexibility. It’s also a useful option if you’ve booked your flights with miles.
Keep in mind that you can’t use this discount alongside any other promotion, discount or special offer.
