Review of Planned University-Related Travel to the Middle East Extended
April 22, 2026 10:02 AM

Dear faculty, staff, and students, 

This message is a follow-up to the March 5, 2026, Massmail titled, “Update on University-Related Travel to the Middle East and High-Risk Travel.” This update includes the latest information and guidance regarding university-related travel to the Middle East.

The health and safety of our students, faculty, and staff, both on campus and abroad, remain the university's top priority. We balance this commitment to safety with our pursuit of global research, education, and engagement, recognizing that conflict, natural disasters, and other factors may influence the feasibility of such activities.

Review of University-Related Travel Extended

After careful consideration, the university is extending the review of university-related travel to 14 countries in the Middle East through July 31, 2026. 

Many U.S. Department of State travel advisories for these countries have been elevated to Level 3 (Reconsider Travel) or Level 4 (Do Not Travel) due to sustained regional conflict, qualifying them as high-risk locations and subject to additional review and approval. 

International Safety and Security will continue to evaluate the feasibility of all university-related travel to any location with a Level 3 or Level 4 travel advisory in accordance with the university’s high-risk review process. 

Insurance Coverage Considerations 

Travelers should be aware that some locations in the Middle East are now considered “war risk” locations by the university’s international insurance carrier and full insurance coverage may be excluded in the region, or restoring coverage may incur additional costs. 

This elevation of risk also applies to layovers. It is not recommended to transit through, or purchase flight plans with layovers in, major regional hubs such as Doha, Dubai, or Abu Dhabi. International Safety and Security will reach out to travelers with high-risk itineraries identified during the international insurance enrollment process to discuss travel plans.  

Those planning university-related travel to the Middle East or other locations with Level 3 or Level 4 travel advisories are encouraged to contact International Safety and Security at safetyabroad@illinois.edu to discuss travel plans and review insurance coverage. 

Questions and Resources 

We recognize that this extension may result in further delay of planned activities as well as increase stress for those with close ties in the region. International Safety and Security will continue to monitor developments and communicate updates to support our community in navigating these circumstances.

Any questions about travel safety, international travel policy, international insurance, or high-risk travel may be directed to International Safety and Security at safetyabroad@illinois.edu. For more information about travel safety and support resources, visit safetyabroad.illinois.edu.

Sincerely,

Colleen Murphy
Interim Associate Chancellor and Vice Provost for Global Affairs & Strategies Designate, Illinois International
Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and Roger & Stephany Joslin Professor of Law, College of Law 

Michelle Dube
Director for International Safety and Security, Illinois International