South Africans in the Middle East face an urgent warning from the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (Disco). The department urges citizens in the region to leave immediately for non-essential travel as conflict escalates. More than 6 400 South Africans registered their presence through the government’s Travel Smart system by 4 March 2026, signalling a growing concern for citizen safety.
Dirco states that limited commercial flights have resumed from some affected areas. Officials encourage South Africans to use this short window to secure safe travel out of the region while options remain available.
Dirco Warns South Africans in the Middle East to Leave Immediately
Dirco issued a firm advisory to South Africans in the Middle East who travelled for non-essential reasons. The department requests immediate evacuation plans due to the risk of continued military attacks and instability.
According to the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, several airlines have restarted restricted flights from certain cities. These flights present one of the few safe opportunities for departure.
Officials stressed the urgency of the situation in their advisory:
“Citizens are strongly encouraged to take immediate advantage of this opportunity to leave, as heavy attacks are expected to continue in the coming days. Your safety remains our paramount concern.”
Authorities continue to monitor developments closely while working with embassies and consulates across the region.
Travel Smart Data Shows More Than 6 400 South Africans Registered
Government data reveals a significant number of citizens currently located across Middle Eastern countries.
As of 4 March 2026, more than 6 400 South Africans registered on the Travel Smart platform, a voluntary system that helps authorities track and assist citizens abroad during emergencies.
Travel Smart registration helps government officials:
- Identify South Africans in affected regions
- Send emergency alerts and safety updates
- Coordinate evacuation assistance
- Provide consular support during crises
Dirco encourages all citizens abroad to register their travel details through the platform.
How South Africans in the Middle East Can Get Help
Dirco confirmed that support remains available for citizens struggling with evacuation arrangements.
South Africans who require assistance should immediately contact a South African embassy or consulate in the region.
Key support channels include:
- South African embassies and consulates in affected countries
- Dirco emergency contact channels listed on the official website
- Travel Smart updates and alerts for registered travellers
Officials also recommend formal registration with the nearest diplomatic mission if travellers have not done so already.
Government platforms will continue to publish updates as the situation develops.
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Dirco Discourages Non-Essential Travel to the Middle East
Dirco strongly discourages new travel to the Middle East while the conflict remains unstable.
The department expects the security situation to deteriorate before any improvement occurs. As a result, travellers should postpone tourism, business trips, and other non-essential visits.
At the diplomatic level, South Africa also renewed its call for restraint among all parties involved in the conflict.
Dirco urged adherence to:
- International law
- International humanitarian law
- Principles of the United Nations Charter
The government maintains that peaceful resolution remains the only sustainable path to stability.
What South Africans Should Do Right Now
South Africans currently in the region should act quickly to reduce risk.
Recommended steps include:
- Arrange immediate commercial flights where available
- Register travel details on the Travel Smart system
- Contact the nearest South African embassy or consulate
- Monitor official government communication channels
- Avoid conflict zones and follow local safety instructions
These steps improve coordination between citizens and government officials during evacuation planning.
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How many South Africans are currently in the Middle East?
More than 6 400 South Africans registered their presence through the Travel Smart platform by 4 March 2026. The real number could exceed this figure because registration remains voluntary.
Why did Dirco urge immediate evacuation?
Dirco issued the advisory due to escalating military conflict in the region. Officials expect further attacks and instability.
Are flights still available?
Limited commercial flights resumed from several airports. Dirco advises travellers to secure seats immediately while departures remain possible.
How do South Africans request assistance?
Citizens should contact the nearest South African embassy or consulate or reach out through official Dirco channels listed on the department’s website.
Should South Africans still travel to the Middle East?
Dirco strongly discourages all non-essential travel until the security situation improves.
