British travellers currently in Oman are being urged to remain calm and closely follow official guidance as arrangements are made to help people return to the UK. Julia Lo Bue-Said OBE, CEO of Advantage Travel Partnership, said the situation is understandably causing anxiety for those affected but stressed that following the correct procedures will be essential to ensure a safe and orderly return home.

Travellers hoping to secure a seat on a government-supported repatriation flight are being advised to register with the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) as soon as possible and wait for direct confirmation before heading to the airport. Officials have warned that arriving without an allocated seat will not guarantee a place on the flight and could increase congestion at airports during what is already a sensitive situation. The first repatriation service will prioritise the most vulnerable passengers, including elderly travellers, those needing medical assistance and families with young children.

In addition to the government-supported flight, British Airways is also expected to operate a dedicated service from Muscat to London for its customers on Thursday. Travellers holding bookings with the airline have been encouraged to contact British Airways directly to explore this option.

Passengers are also advised to keep their phones fully charged, monitor official updates and ensure their passports and essential documents are readily available. Those who booked through travel agents should reach out to them for assistance, as agents are working closely with airline partners to arrange rebookings, alternative routes or later departures where commercial flights remain available.

Lo Bue-Said emphasised that personal safety should remain the top priority. Travellers are encouraged to stay in secure accommodation unless advised otherwise, keep checking updated FCDO guidance and rely only on verified information from government and airline communications. She added that the travel industry is working around the clock to support affected passengers, but following official instructions will be key to ensuring the smoothest journey back to the UK.