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Bar Council delays Dubai event and urges barristers to follow updated travel advice
The Bar Council has postponed a planned event in Dubai following recent developments across the Middle East and updated travel advice issued by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.
The visit, which had been scheduled for Tuesday, 31 March 2026, will no longer proceed as planned. The Bar Council stated that, given the current circumstances, it is not practical to continue preparations. Alternative dates for the event will be considered at a later stage.
The decision follows ongoing developments in the region and revised guidance from the FCDO. The Bar Council confirmed that it had issued an earlier statement and continues to advise barristers travelling abroad to register their presence with UK authorities in order to receive updates.
British nationals in several countries, including Bahrain, Israel, Kuwait, Palestine, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, are being encouraged to register their location with the FCDO. This measure is intended to ensure individuals can receive timely information and assistance where necessary.
The FCDO has also updated its travel advice across a wider range of countries in the region. These include Afghanistan, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Oman, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Türkiye, Turkmenistan and Yemen, in addition to those already identified.
The Bar Council has advised barristers travelling in affected areas to follow the official travel guidance for their specific location. This includes monitoring updates issued by the FCDO, reviewing available information on managing situations abroad, and adhering to instructions from local authorities as well as British embassies and consulates.
The organisation emphasised that staying informed remains essential for those currently in or planning to travel to the region. It also highlighted the importance of responding promptly to official updates as the situation develops.
In addition to issuing guidance, the Bar Council confirmed that it will continue to offer support to barristers through its existing channels, working alongside chambers where necessary. The organisation stated that it will monitor developments closely and provide further updates as appropriate.
The postponement of the Dubai event reflects a precautionary approach in light of the evolving situation. The Bar Council has indicated that decisions regarding future arrangements will be made once conditions allow for clearer planning and greater certainty.