us state department travel advisory for turkey

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Turkey Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

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After Your Trip

Be aware of current health issues in Turkey. Learn how to protect yourself.

Level 1 Practice Usual Precautions

• Updated   Global Measles August 14, 2024 Many international destinations are reporting increased numbers of cases of measles. Destination List: Afghanistan, Angola, Armenia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Benin, Bhutan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Democratic Republic of the Congo, Djibouti, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Gabon, Georgia, Ghana, Guinea, India, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Liberia, Malaysia, Mali, Mauritania, Mozambique, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Philippines, Qatar, Republic of South Sudan, Republic of the Congo, Romania, Russia, San Marino, Senegal, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Syria, Togo, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan, Yemen, Zambia

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Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil
• Avoid floodwater

Clinical Guidance

Avoid bug bites.

Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic fever

• Tick bite 
• Touching the body fluids of a person or animal infected with CCHF
• Avoid Bug Bites

Leishmaniasis

• Sand fly bite

Airborne & droplet

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Turkey, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH)
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Turkey. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Turkey include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Turkey’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in some parts of Turkey. If you are going to a risk area, fill your malaria prescription before you leave, and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Turkey may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Turkey, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

For information traffic safety and road conditions in Turkey, see Travel and Transportation on US Department of State's country-specific information for Turkey .

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Turkey for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.

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Is it Safe to Travel to Turkey

Last Updated on August 4, 2024

In my 50 years of experience traveling in Turkey, I have lived through times of difficult relations between the USA and Turkey. Some Turks would converse about the difficulties, ask questions, state their opinions, etc., but I never felt myself to be in physical danger. That was my experience.

However, there can be  no guarantee of complete safety , anywhere in the world, for any individual traveler that nothing unpleasant will ever happen. Too many individual factors come into play.

Travelers—including Americans—are still going to Turkey and most find a warm welcome, low prices, and all the beauties and advantages that make Turkey one of the most visited tourist destinations in the world each year.

Read the  TTP Safety Page   to learn more about common safety concerns and make travel decisions you can be comfortable with.

Join our Facebook group where you can hear more from long-term residents of Turkey and newly returned travelers who share their advice and experiences.

August 2024 Travel Advice

The current travel advisories remain at the same level. There have been recent reports of protests regarding the war, but there is no increased risk in traveling to Turkey. Tourist destinations remain safe and open for travel. As a traveler, it is generally wise to avoid any large demonstrations in any country.  Because protests may take place outside of the embassy of foreign countries, it can sometimes result in increased traffic in the area or (rarely) embassy closures.  Enroll in your country's travel notification system for the most updated travel warnings and advice (see below).

Is Turkey safe for solo female travelers?

Turkey is in fact a safe destinations for solo female travelers (see our video at the top of this page). But it is important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, as you would when traveling in any foreign country. It is wise to follow general recommendations such as to dress modestly, avoid traveling alone at night, and to be aware of the local customs and cultural norms. Additionally, it is a good idea to inform friends or family of your travel itinerary and to stay in well-lit and populated areas. Also consider registering with your government's foreign travel system. As with any travel, it is also important to stay informed about any potential safety risks or travel advisories in the area.

Is driving in Turkey safe?

Are there any recommended tips for staying safe while walking around turkey's cities and towns.

Here are 5 tips to stay safe when traveling

• Avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas, and stay in well-lit and populated areas.
• Dress modestly and be aware of the local laws and customs as well as cultural norms. Try to blend in and keep a low profile. It's a good idea to keep your valuables, such as your passport and money, hidden and secure. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash, and use a money belt or hidden pouch to keep your valuables safe.
• Keep a photocopy of your passport and ID (and visa, if applicable) in case they are lost or stolen.
• Be vigilant in crowded areas (such as tourist sites and in the markets) and on public transportation, as pickpocketing can be a common problem.
• Write down the emergency number (112) and the information for the nearest embassy or consulate.

Is it safe to travel to Turkey with children?

Yes, many families enjoy traveling in Turkey with their children.  There are many family-friendly destinations. You may find it more convenient to stay at a hotel or accommodation that caters to families. As with traveling in other countries, pay close attention in crowded areas and be sure to have an emergency plan in place for your family.

Travel Advisories

The US has revised the travel warning for Turkey by dropping it down to a 2   with only noteworthy warnings on the Eastern borders.

The terrorism incidents that caused travelers to avoid Turkey for several years are now in the past, with no large events being reported in the past 2 or 3 years. Tourism is in a period of recovery now and tourist numbers in 2022 nearly returned to their 2019 pre-pandemic figures.

I follow the diplomats' advice to avoid large gatherings, especially any that are political, etc. Please read these  Travel Advisories:

UK Foreign Office

The United Kingdom's  Foreign Office has the following information on its  website regarding travel in Eastern Turkey:

"The Foreign and Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advise against all travel to areas within 10 km of the border with Syria.

The FCDO advise against all but essential travel to:

• the province of Hakkari

Additionally, they advise tourists to always carry their passport and a copy of their visa with them while in Turkey. There's lots more. Here it is.

US Department of State

The  US Department of State  has a travel warning on its  website which includes this Level 2 warning :

"Exercise Increased Caution" is the statement for the whole of Turkey with only the below significant warning mentioned:

Do not travel to:

• Sirnak province, Hakkari province, and any area within six miles (ten kilometers) of the Syrian border due to  terrorism .

Read the entire  Travel Advisory.

The  Embassy of the United States  in Ankara website  also issues useful advice.

Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

Here is the warning for Australian travelers,  which is similar to those mentioned above.

Government Traveler Records

Many national governments maintain records of travelers visiting foreign destinations so they can alert travelers on the road to dangers as they may arise.

For example, if you apply to join the  US Department of State 's  Safe Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) , US diplomats in Turkey will have a record of your personal, passport, contact and emergency information in an online database. If they feel it advisable to alert you to a dangerous situation, the database can make it possible.

If you are not a US citizen, your country's government may have a similar program, to which you may wish to apply. It can't hurt, and it may help, if only to allay anxiety.

Economic Situation & Foreign Relations

In recent years, the Turkish lira has suffered a substantial loss of value versus the major currencies of the US dollar, euro, pound sterling and Japanese yen. This makes a visit to Turkey less expensive for travelers who convert those currencies to liras, but it also has created economic difficulties for the Turkish economy. Its effects are felt most by ordinary Turks, and Turkish businesses.

Relations between Turkey and the USA can be strained at times with trade tariffs being levied by both countries, and disagreements over foreign, military, and banking relations. However, Turkey is a NATO ally which adds an extra level of security.

February 2023 Earthquake

On February 6, 2023 the southeastern region of Turkey suffered a magnitude 7.8 earthquake . Currently, access to the affected areas has been restricted to allow for recovery efforts.

Travel to Turkey remains open and there is no increased risk in visiting other regions of Turkey. Read government alerts linked below for the most updated information.

COVID-19 Situation

There are no restrictions or requirements for entering Turkey. Visitors no longer need to show proof of vaccination, quarantine, or wear masks. For travelers who still wish to take precautions, there are many options for visiting airy outdoor sites which allow you to maintain your distance.

—by  Tom Brosnahan , updated by Kimberly Price

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Russia Travel Advisory

Travel advisory june 27, 2024, russia - level 4: do not travel.

Reissued after periodic review with minor edits.

Do not travel to Russia due to the consequences of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine by Russian military forces. U.S. citizens may face harassment or detention by Russian security officials, arbitrary enforcement of local laws, limited flights into and out of Russia, and the possibility of terrorism. The U.S. Embassy has limited ability to assist U.S. citizens in Russia. The Department has determined that there is a continued risk of wrongful detention of U.S. nationals by Russian authorities. U.S. citizens residing or traveling in Russia should leave immediately.

The U.S. government has limited ability to help U.S. citizens in Russia, especially outside of Moscow. The U.S. Embassy is operating with reduced staffing, and the Russian government has restricted travel for embassy personnel. Furthermore, all U.S. consulates in Russia have suspended operations, including consular services.

There have been reports of drone attacks and explosions near the border with Ukraine as well as in Moscow, Kazan, and St. Petersburg. In an emergency, you should follow instructions from local authorities and seek shelter.

Russia may refuse to recognize your U.S. citizenship if you are a dual U.S.-Russian citizen or have a claim to Russian citizenship. Russia has denied consular officers visits to detained dual U.S.-Russian citizens. The Russian government has forced citizens with dual nationality to join the Russian military and prevented them from leaving the country. In 2022, the Russian government mobilized citizens for its invasion of Ukraine. Military conscription continues.

In Russia, the rights to peaceful assembly and free speech are not always protected. U.S. citizens should avoid protests and taking photos of security staff at these events. Russian authorities have arrested U.S. citizens who joined protests. Moreover, there are many reports of Russians being detained for social media posts.

U.S. citizens should know that U.S. credit and debit cards no longer work in Russia. Due to sanctions, sending electronic money transfers from the U.S. to Russia is nearly impossible.

Commercial flight options are minimal and are often unavailable on short notice. If you wish to depart Russia, you should make independent arrangements. The U.S. Embassy has limited ability to assist U.S. citizens in leaving the country, and transportation options may suddenly become even more restricted.

Click  here  for Information for U.S. Citizens Seeking to Depart Russia.

U.S. Embassy staff generally are not allowed to fly on Russian airlines due to safety concerns. Recently, the FAA downgraded Russia's air safety rating from Category 1 to Category 2. Additionally, the FAA banned U.S. flights in some Russian areas, including the Moscow Flight Information Region (FIR), the Samara FIR (UWWW), and the Rostov-na-Donu (URRV) FIR within 160NM of the boundaries of the Dnipro (UKDV) Flight Information Regions. Check the FAA's Prohibitions, Restrictions, and Notices for more information.

Country Summary: 

Russian officials have interrogated and threatened U.S. citizens without cause. This includes former and current U.S. government and military personnel and private U.S. citizens engaged in business. U.S. citizens may become victims of harassment, mistreatment, and extortion.

Russian authorities may not notify the U.S. Embassy about the detention of a U.S. citizen and may delay U.S. consular assistance. Russian security services also target foreign and international organizations they consider “undesirable.”

Russian security services have arrested U.S. citizens on false charges, denied them fair treatment, and convicted them without credible evidence. Furthermore, Russian authorities have opened questionable investigations against U.S. citizens engaged in religious activity. U.S. citizens should avoid travel to Russia.

Russia's invasion of Ukraine has destabilized security in southwestern Russia. In October 2022, the Russian government declared martial law in the following border areas with Ukraine: Bryansk, Kursk, Belgorod, Voronezh, Rostov, and Krasnodar. Under martial law, authorities can set curfews, seize property, and restrict movement. The Russian government may detain foreigners, forcibly relocate residents, and limit public gatherings. U.S. citizens should avoid all travel to these areas.

Russian authorities have questioned, detained, and arrested people for “acting against Russia's interests.” Local authorities have targeted people for posting on social media or supporting "anti-Russian" groups and punished individuals for criticizing the government or military. The Russian government's current "LGBT propaganda" law bans discussion of LGBTQI+ related topics. In November 2023, the Supreme Court labeled the so-called "international LGBT movement" as extremist. This decision effectively made it a crime to support the human rights of LGBTQI+ persons in Russia.

Terrorists continue to plan attacks in Russia. The March 2024 Crocus City Hall incident proved they can strike suddenly. Terrorists may target tourist areas, transport hubs, and markets. They may also target government buildings, hotels, clubs, restaurants, and places of worship. Parks, events, schools, and airports are also potential targets.  U.S. government employees under Embassy (Chief of Mission) security responsibility are not permitted to travel to the North Caucasus, including Chechnya and Mt. Elbrus. U.S. citizens should avoid travel to those areas.

The international community does not recognize Russia’s annexation of Crimea and does not acknowledge Russia’s purported annexation of Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhya. Russia staged its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, in part, from occupied Crimea and there is a heavy Russian military presence in these areas. There is intense fighting across these regions and Russian authorities there have abused both foreigners and locals. Authorities have specifically targeted individuals who are seen as challenging Russia’s authority.

The U.S. Embassy in Kyiv administers consular services to U.S. citizens in Crimea, Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhya. However, the conflict limits the Embassy's ability to help U.S. citizens in these areas.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Russia.

If you decide to travel to Russia:

• Read the information on what the U.S. government can and cannot do to assist you in an emergency overseas .
• Consider the risks involved in having dual U.S.- Russian nationality.
• Have a contingency plan in place that does not rely on U.S. government help. Review the Traveler’s Checklist .
• Follow news for any important events and update your plans based on the new information.
• Ensure travel documents are valid and easily accessible.
• Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas .
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). This will allow you to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter .
• Review the Country Security Report for Russia.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

Travel Advisory Levels

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These are the countries open for U.S. travelers in the Middle East and surrounding regions

The Middle East sits at the junction of Europe, Asia and Africa and represents an integral faction of the global economy. Many countries in the Middle East were militant about border closures at the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic, although some are beginning to reopen to international visitors.

Thinking about making a trip here in the near future? Here's what you need to know.

Bahrain — Open for visitors

Traveling to Bahrain

As of Sept. 4, U.S. travelers are once again permitted to receive a visa upon arrival. U.S. visitors do not need to bring a negative PCR COVID-19 test when entering Bahrain. However, all arriving passengers will be tested for COVID-19 at their own expense, at a cost of $80 (30 Bahraini dinars). Passengers may be required to take two tests, which would double the cost to the traveler. Any positive test results will result in quarantine at a government facility until a clean bill of health is received.

Travelers staying beyond 10 days in Bahrain must undergo a second test on their tenth day in the country.

Travelers arriving in Bahrain from Saudi Arabia via the King Fahd Causeway must undergo mandatory Covid-19 testing on arrival, at the expense of the traveler, and enter quarantine until results come out negative. Travelers can substitute the results of a negative PCR test conducted within 72 hours, uploaded via the BeAware Bahrain app.

Once in Bahrain

As of April 9, the Government of Bahrain has mandated that all individuals must wear face masks in all public venues or while using public transportation. Social distancing requirements are also in place. Anyone found violating the face mask regulation will be fined $53 (20 Bahraini dinars) on the spot.

Indoor dining is set to resume on Oct. 24, and some restaurants have been allowed to pre-book private dining opportunities for groups between 10 to 20 individuals. Restaurants and cafes have been allowed to resume outdoor dining service as long as they adhere to all mandatory health precautions.

Related: Where can Americans travel right now?

Anyone found breaking public health rules faces either a minimum of three months in jail, a fine ranging from 1,000 Bahraini Dinars ($2,645) to 10,000 dinars ($26,500), or a combination of both.

Grocery stores and commercial retail stores are open for business, but groups of more than five people congregating on roads, yards, public beaches, parks, and other public places are still prohibited, punishable with up to three years in jail, or a fine of $13,263 (5,000 Bahraini dinars). Private beaches are open with mandatory health precautions in place.

Iran — Closed

Iran's borders remain closed to most countries as of the time of publication, including to U.S. citizens.

Despite its beauty and culture, Iran can be a tough destination for U.S. travelers to visit, even outside of COVID-19. U.S. citizens are at high risk from kidnapping, terrorism and arbitrary arrest and detention for U.S. citizens, according to the U.S. State Department, which has levied a Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory on Iran for some time now.

Iraq — Closed

Iraqi borders remain closed for tourism as of September 2020. The U.S. State Department holds a Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory on Iraq for concerns over terrorism, kidnapping, armed conflict and limited embassy capacity to support U.S. citizens in addition to heightened COVID-19 risk.

Israel — Re-closed from COVID-19 resurgence

After a successful first go at flattening the curve , Israel has been hit hard again by another surge of coronavirus infections. The nation re-entered a three-week lockdown in mid-September, a bitter blow because the dates coincided with some of the biggest holidays in Jewish faith, and because the economy is suffering under shut-down restrictions.

Related: Etihad just made the first-ever known airline flight from the United Arab Emirates to Israel

Related: Israel re-enters quarantine

Jordan — Open, with restrictions

U.S. travelers can enter Jordan, but will be subject to significant restrictions, according to the U.S. embassy.

U.S. travelers entering Jordan must undergo mandatory home quarantine for a period of 14 days, according to this official government designation . During home quarantine, COVID-19 PCR testing will occur on the seventh and fourteenth days of quarantine.

In early October, the Jordanian government announced a nationwide curfew spanning 24 hours from midnight Friday until midnight Saturday each week. As with previous comprehensive curfews, the Government of Jordan forbids anyone from moving outside their home during this period. The lockdown only excludes essential workers scheduled for work shifts, such as contact tracing teams and medical staff. Furthermore, a second nightly curfew is in effect, from 1 a.m. to 6 a.m. each night for people, and from 12 a.m. to 6 a.m. for commercial establishments.

Restaurants and other businesses were permitted to reopen on Oct. 1, but are subject to the scheduled comprehensive curfew as well. Dine-in service is only available to customers who have installed the Aman.jo tracking app on their phones. Delivery services for food and public transportation remain available during non-curfew hours.

Social distancing regulations and mandatory mask requirements remain in place for business establishments, public transportation, and government facilities, and gatherings are limited to 20 people.

U.S. travelers entering Jordan must meet the following conditions to enter the country:

• Have valid health insurance that covers COVID-19 treatment for the entire period of their intended visit
• Complete and submit a passenger health declaration form found at  gov.jo , including proof of a negative PCR test
• Pay $56 in advance for a second PCR test that will be conducted on arrival in Amman
• Receive a QR code 24 hours prior to boarding the flight
• Present proof of a negative PCR test before boarding the flight
• As of Oct. 7, travelers may now leave the airport after testing and go directly to their homes, to await test results by text message.
• Install the  jo application  on a mobile device

Travelers heading to and from the airport during curfew hours must carry their confirmed flight ticket. Airport taxis will continue to operate, and all travel between cities is banned during the scheduled curfews. U.S. citizens should be prepared for additional travel restrictions and health precautions to be put into effect with little or no advance notice.

U.S. travelers who both test positive on arrival at the airport and have valid health insurance will be sent to a quarantine facility at the Dead Sea or a private hospital. If someone's insurance does not cover the complete costs of hospital care for the duration of the illness, the Government of Jordan will return the traveler to their origin country.

Travelers should follow these procedures:

• Masks are required, and social distancing practices are in effect for public transportation. For taxis and app-based methods of transportation, passengers are required to sit in the back seat of the vehicle.
• Travelers violating Jordan's entry requirements face a $14,000 fine.
• Individuals violating the social distancing and mask wearing order will be fined between $28 to $70
• Economic establishments will be fined between $141 to $288 for COVID-related violations, in addition to a mandatory closure of the establishment for 14 days if they fail to comply with the government's social distancing and mask wearing orders.
• Fines for breaking the nightly or weekend comprehensive curfews will range between $705 to $1,410 for first time violations, and up to one-year imprisonment and additional fines for repeated offenses.
• A fine of up to $440 will be imposed against administrators of hospitals, health centers, or medical laboratories in the event of withholding confirmed COVID-19 infections from authorities.

Kuwait — Open, with restriction

U.S. travelers entering Kuwait will only be permitted in with either a valid visa or a residency permit. Visitor visas are not being issued upon arrival at the airport, nor are visas available electronically in advance; they can only be requested from a Kuwaiti embassy or consulate.

All passengers, including minors, are required to wear a mask and gloves upon arrival at the airport and must arrive at least four hours in advance of their scheduled flight.

Arriving passengers over the age of six must produce a negative PCR test result administered by a health clinic within 96 hours of boarding their flight to Kuwait. Results must be in English, and do not need to be translated. Furthermore, a random PCR test will be conducted on 10 percent of passengers of each flight upon arrival.

Travelers arriving must register through the Shlonik app prior to boarding the aircraft, and must quarantine at home for 14 days upon arrival in Kuwait.

Taxis are operating, and buses have implemented social distancing measures. Face masks are mandatory in all public spaces, and violators will be imprisoned for up to three months and/or fined up to $16,300.

Lebanon — Open, with restrictions

As of July 31, all travelers to Lebanon over the age of 12 must produce a negative PCR test taken within 96 hours of travel in order to enter the country. Upon arrival, travelers must opt either for a second PCR test within 72 hours of arrival at the traveler's expense (about $50, collected by the airline), or else go into self-quarantine for 10 days. All travelers to Lebanon must complete a medical form issued by the Lebanese Ministry of Public Health before boarding their flight.

And the Ministry of Interior has restricted movement and activities in several villages in Lebanon through Oct. 12.

Masks are required at all times outdoors and in public spaces, and all violators will be fined $33 per each violation. Furthermore, there is a nightly curfew in place from 1 a.m. until local sunrise each night.

Oman — Open, with restrictions

Flights resumed to Oman on Oct. 1.

A mandatory PCR COVID-19 test is required when entering the Sultanate through Muscat International Airport (MCT), Salalah Airport (SLL), Sohar Airport (OHS), and Duqm Airport (DQM). Each test costs $65, and will be paid by the traveler. PCR tests must be pre-booked on the Tarassud+ mobile app before arrival in Oman. The application collects health and contact information as well as taking payment for PCR tests online.

If the test results are negative, passengers staying less than seven days may depart after the results are released. Passengers staying more than seven days must wear a wristband, and follow a 14-day quarantine either their residence in Oman, or at a hotel at their own expense. Proof of residence or a house lease might be required to show that the residence meets the requirements for home quarantine.

Residents returning to Oman may be required to download and register on the Tarassud+ phone app on  IOS  and   Android and wear a tracking bracelet during the quarantine period. Tracking bracelets are provided by the Government of Oman for $13 apiece.

Masks are required in public, and violations will be fined $260 for non-compliance.

Palestine — Closed

Travelers are not permitted to enter the region unless they are citizens or residents of Israel.

Qatar — Closed for tourism

U.S. travelers are allowed to enter Qatar under specific circumstances, but not for tourism. Entering travelers must produce a negative COVID-19 test and quarantine upon arrival.

Saudi Arabia — Closed for tourism

U.S. travelers are only allowed to enter Saudi Arabia with current residence permits as well as valid entry/exit visas, or if they hold business or visit visas.

Face masks are mandatory in all public venues, and violations are subject to a fine of $2,666. Crowd sizes are limited to no more than 50. Grocery stores remain well stocked, and malls, shops, and private entities are open, though some may only offer limited services.

Travelers over the age of eight must produce a negative COVID-19 test to enter the country, with results obtained within 72 hours of arrival time. Upon arrival, travelers must quarantine for two days upon arrival.

All arriving passengers must complete a health disclaimer form and submit it to health personnel at the airport upon arrival. In addition, they must download and register on Tataman and Tawakkalna applications and assign a home location through the Tataman app within eight hours of arrival. Arrivals must complete a daily health assessment in the Tataman app as well as monitor possible COVID-19 symptoms.

Syria - Closed

U.S. travelers are not able to enter Syria at this time.

Turkey — Open

As of June 11, Turkey's international borders are open for travelers from a number of countries, including the U.S. However, travelers should note a couple of precautions unrelated to COVID-19:

• The U.S. State Department's travel advisory guide lists Turkey at Level 3: Reconsider Travel , due to concerns over terrorism and arbitrary detention, as well as ongoing conflict. Travelers are strongly advised to avoid the areas bordering Iraq and Syria due to terrorist activity.
• U.S. travelers will still need to apply for a visa before entering Turkey. You can do so via e-visa application , which takes about three minutes.

Negative PCR tests are not required for entry unless a traveler shows symptoms of illness at the time of arrival. Upon arrival, travelers will be asked to fill out a passenger information form and undergo medical screenings for infection, and anyone showing symptoms upon arrival will be tested for coronavirus . Anyone who tests positive will be referred to a Turkish hospital for quarantine and treatment.

Related: These are the US State Department travel advisories for July 2020

• Additional cautions for Turkey travelers include:
• Stay alert in locations frequented by Westerners.
• Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
• Stay at hotels with identifiable security measures.
• Monitor local media and adjust your plans based on new information.

Related: Turkey is open for tourists — here's what you need to know

All travelers must wear masks in the airport and onboard flights inbound for Turkey , according to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation. Travelers who show signs of COVID-19 including but not limited to fever, runny nose, cough or respiratory distress will not be allowed to board flights or enter the country.

Face masks must be worn in public spaces at all times across all 81 provinces of Turkey, and violators will be fined.

However, the Turkish embassy's website states that tourist travelers do not need to provide specific health documentation to enter or exit Turkey unless they are arriving for medical treatment.

Standing passengers will not be allowed in urban public transportation vehicles where physical distance rules cannot be applied. Live music is not permitted at restaurants and cafes after midnight.

Given the strict travel and transit restrictions in the Schengen Zone , U.S. citizens who wish to transit via the region must have onward tickets to the U.S. and meet the Schengen and U.K. exceptions as passengers in transit.

United Arab Emirates — Open, with restrictions

The United Arab Emirates is comprised of seven emirates, similar to states. Dubai and Abu Dhabi are the best-known emirates — the other five are Ajman, Fujairah, Ras al Khaimah, Sharjah and Umm al Quwain.

Dubai and Abu Dhabi reopened to international visitors in early July after a three-month hiatus. All visitors 12 and older must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 96 hours of departure time, and all test results must be presented either in English or Arabic in original, physical form. Digital copies will not be accepted. Travelers with severe and moderate disabilities may be exempted from the test requirement.

The National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority of the UAE (NCEMA), as well as the official website of the UAE , has stated that anyone entering the UAE from another country must undergo a self-quarantine of 14 days. Violating home quarantine is punishable by law.

However, visitors entering Dubai are not required to quarantine if they can show that they are in recent clean health, according to local media source Gulf News . Travelers entering Abu Dhabi and other northern emirates must quarantine for 14 days , regardless of their test results.

Travelers should also expect to:

• Undergo health screening procedures at airports and other ports of entry
• Download the COVID-19 DXB app onto their phones for monitoring
• Complete the acknowledgment form and submit to officials upon arrival in Dubai

Upon arrival, another PCR test can still be administered at the discretion of local officials, even if all of the criteria above are met. Tested travelers must quarantine until they receive results, and passengers who test positive must undergo mandatory quarantine for a minimum of 14 days at a hotel or self-isolated private address, with successful follow-up test results before quarantine is complete. All expenses associated with quarantine are the responsibility of the traveler.

After you complete your quarantine, you must continue to comply with all preventative measures from the UAE health authorities.

Related: K9 sniffer dogs may screen you for signs of coronavirus in the UAE

Masks and gloves are required in public spaces, and everyone must practice appropriate social distancing in public areas. People who violate preventative measures can be fined up to $27,000 for the most severe infractions.

U.S. travelers do not need tourist visas to enter the UAE. But Dubai is the only port of entry offering tourist visas right now, so if you are traveling with non-U.S. nationals, be sure you don't enter the country through Abu Dhabi or other destinations. Furthermore, the UAE government website states that travelers entering Abu Dhabi and other northern emirates must quarantine for 14 days , regardless of their test results.

According to the U.S. Embassy website, visitors who enter the UAE via Dubai can travel to Abu Dhabi by road if they present proof that they are COVID-free, dated within the past 48 hours of travel time. Non-Abu Dhabi residents who stay for six or more consecutive days must take an additional COVID-19 PCR test on the sixth day .

Yemen — Closed

The U.S. State Department has maintained a Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory on Yemen for some time, even before COVID-19 became a threat, due to issues with terrorism, civil unrest, health risks, kidnapping, armed conflict, and landmines. The embassy in Sana'a suspended operations in early 2015, and U.S. citizens in Yemen will not be able to rely on emergency services from the U.S. government.

All travelers entering on U.S. documents are required to have a visa from the Yemeni government before entering the country, and passports must have an additional six months' validity from the date of departure.

The vast majority of border points are closed by land, sea and air . Anyone who is permitted to enter must quarantine for 14 days upon arrival.