Published on
October 15, 2025
As security concerns grow around the world, Oman, alongside countries like Turkey, the UK, China, Mexico, the Philippines, and Indonesia, has started receiving an updated travel advisory from Canada. With the world facing new risks from geopolitical tensions, terrorism, and conflicts erupting within regions, the security climate has changed rapidly. Canada taking the advisory action illustrates the growing volatility in regions where demonstrations become violent, terrorism erupts, and political situations become unstable. Because of this, Canada has started warning their travelers of the increased risks and advising them to avoid unnecessary travel to these locations.
As global travel continues to be affected by increasing geopolitical tensions, security risks, and regional instability, Canada has issued updated travel advisories for several countries. These advisories come in response to rising concerns about safety, terrorism threats, political unrest, and unpredictable security situations. Travelers are urged to exercise caution or avoid non-essential travel to certain areas, particularly those facing the risk of violent demonstrations, terrorist activities, and unstable conditions.
The following detailed breakdown covers each country, highlighting the specific travel risks in key regions, including Oman, Turkey, United Kingdom, China, Mexico, Philippines, and Indonesia. Read on to learn about the safety guidelines, regional risks, and what travelers should expect while visiting these nations.
Oman: Exercise High Caution Amid Regional Tensions and Terrorism Threats
General Advisory
Oman has been added to Canada’s updated travel advisory list, urging travelers to exercise high caution due to ongoing tensions in the Middle East. With the potential for violent demonstrations and the ever-present threat of terrorism, travelers are advised to stay vigilant.
Regional Risks
The border with Yemen has been identified as an area where travelers should avoid non-essential travel. The region is in close proximity to the ongoing conflict in Yemen, and while there are no direct cross-border attacks, the spillover of violence remains a significant risk. It is highly recommended to avoid any travel within 10 km of the Yemen border.
Terrorism and Violence
The threat of terrorism in Oman is significant. A tragic shooting incident occurred in Wadi Al Kabir, Muscat, on July 16, 2024, resulting in several casualties. As the situation remains volatile, government buildings, schools, airports, tourist attractions, and other public places could be at risk of attacks.
Travelers are urged to remain cautious in public areas, particularly during sporting events, religious holidays, or political gatherings when terrorist groups might exploit such occasions to carry out attacks.
Safety Recommendations
- Avoid traveling alone at night
- Secure valuables and personal items at all times
- Monitor local media for updates
- Follow instructions from local authorities if a situation escalates.
Turkey: Terrorism and Regional Instability Prompt Travel Caution
General Advisory
Canada’s travel advisory for Turkey advises travelers to exercise high caution due to the continuing threat of terrorist attacks, political instability, and sporadic violent incidents, particularly in border regions.
Regional Risks
The border regions with Iraq and Syria remain highly unstable, and the advisory strongly recommends avoiding all travel within 10 km of these areas. Despite ongoing counter-terrorism efforts by Turkish and Iraqi forces, the risk of attacks remains high due to violent extremist groups operating in the region. Travelers are advised to avoid non-essential travel to southeastern provinces like Hakkari and Şırnak, which have experienced frequent clashes between rebel groups and government forces.
Terrorism and Violent Clashes
Terrorism remains a key risk, with armed attacks in public places occurring in cities like Ankara and Istanbul. The Turkish government has implemented strict security measures, including roadblocks and patrols. Major targets include military installations, airports, and public spaces frequented by foreigners.
Safety Recommendations
- Avoid traveling in border areas and rural regions where terrorist groups operate
- Stay informed through local media regarding military actions and heightened security measures
- Be cautious during election periods or public celebrations as these are prime times for terrorist activities.
United Kingdom: Terrorism Threat and Public Unrest
General Advisory
Canada has issued an advisory urging travelers to exercise high caution in the United Kingdom due to the ongoing threat of terrorism and political unrest, particularly in urban centers.
Terrorism Risk
The United Kingdom remains on high alert, with a terrorism threat level of “substantial”. Previous attacks, including random vehicle and knife assaults in public spaces, have raised concerns. London has been a frequent target, but other major cities are also at risk. Terrorist attacks are often unpredictable, and travelers should be mindful in public areas such as airports, shopping centers, restaurants, and places of worship.
Demonstrations and Public Unrest
Demonstrations and protests are common in the UK, and even peaceful gatherings can turn violent. Travelers are advised to avoid areas with large crowds or where demonstrations are taking place.
Safety Recommendations
- Be vigilant, especially in crowded areas like Piccadilly Circus or Leicester Square
- Stay updated with the UK government’s public threat alerts
- Keep a low profile and avoid showing signs of affluence, particularly in busy areas.
China: Arbitrary Enforcement of Laws and Regional Restrictions
General Advisory
Travelers to China are advised to exercise a high degree of caution, particularly in relation to the arbitrary enforcement of local laws. The lack of transparency in China’s legal system may impact travelers’ ability to obtain effective legal assistance.
Regional Risks
In the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, ethnic minorities are facing increasing restrictions, with reports of arbitrary detention, forced labor camps, and other human rights abuses. Travelers with ties to this region or who belong to ethnic minorities may face an elevated risk of detention.
Tibet and Tibetan Autonomous Prefectures
Traveling to Tibet requires special permits and is subject to restrictions that may be applied without prior notice. If you enter restricted areas without a permit, you could be fined or detained.
Crime and Safety
Petty crime such as pickpocketing is common in major cities and tourist areas. Fraud involving credit cards and ATM withdrawals is also a concern. Travelers should exercise caution and secure their valuables.
Safety Recommendations
- Ensure you have proper permits for travel to restricted regions like Tibet
- Avoid participating in protests or political demonstrations
- Keep a copy of your passport and personal documents in case of legal issues.
Mexico: Crime and Kidnapping Risk in High-Violence Areas
General Advisory
Mexico has seen an increase in violence and organized crime, prompting Canada to issue a travel advisory advising travelers to exercise a high degree of caution.
Regional Risks
Certain states such as Chiapas, Chihuahua, Jalisco, and Guanajuato are experiencing heightened levels of violence due to gang and cartel activity. Travelers should avoid non-essential travel to these regions and stay within safer areas, especially near popular tourist destinations like Cozumel and Cancún.
Crime and Kidnapping
The risk of violent crime and kidnapping is elevated, particularly in border areas and major cities. Kidnapping for ransom is a significant concern, especially for foreigners perceived to have wealth. Additionally, armed robberies are common in urban centers.
Safety Recommendations
- Avoid traveling at night, especially along highways
- Stay in well-populated, secure tourist areas
- Be vigilant when using ATMs or public transportation.
Philippines: Terrorism, Kidnapping, and Violent Crime in Mindanao
General Advisory
Travelers to the Philippines are advised to exercise a high degree of caution due to the ongoing threats of terrorism, kidnapping, and violent crime. Specific regions in Mindanao are highly dangerous and should be avoided.
Regional Risks
The southern Philippines, particularly Western Mindanao, has been a hotspot for insurgent activity and clashes between government forces and militant groups. The risk of kidnapping remains high, with both locals and foreigners targeted. The Sulu Archipelago and Zamboanga Peninsula are especially unsafe.
Terrorism and Violent Crime
Terrorist attacks have been carried out in major cities, and bombings in public areas have targeted government buildings, transportation hubs, and tourist sites. Armed robberies and violent crimes are also prevalent, especially in Metro Manila.
Safety Recommendations
- Avoid all travel to Mindanao, especially provinces like Basilan, Sulu, and Zamboanga
- Stay in secure accommodations and avoid traveling alone
- Follow the advice of local authorities and avoid public gatherings or protests.
Indonesia: Political Tensions and Terrorism Threats
General Advisory
Canada’s travel advisory for Indonesia urges travelers to exercise a high degree of caution due to ongoing political tensions, particularly in regions such as Indonesian Papua and Aceh.
Regional Risks
Travel to Indonesian Papua should be limited to essential travel only due to militant groups operating in the region. There have been threats against foreigners, and violent incidents are common. In areas like Jakarta, Bali, and Lombok, travelers should remain alert due to political protests and the terrorism threat.
Terrorism
Terrorists have targeted tourist attractions, nightclubs, and public places. Terrorist groups are active across the country, though counterterrorism efforts have mitigated some risk. However, attacks remain a possibility, particularly during religious holidays or public celebrations.
Safety Recommendations
- Avoid travel to Indonesian Papua and regions experiencing political unrest
- Stay updated with local news and government travel advisories
- Be cautious when attending crowded events or visiting public areas.
Due to increased global security issues, Canada has issued a new travel advisory to Oman, which now makes Oman travel to Canada alongside Turkey, United Kingdom, China, Mexico, Philippines, and Indonesia. As a result, Oman travel to Canada now listed as increased caution. This applies to issues such as terrorism, conflict, and violence which pose a risk in the Middle East and North Africa Region.
Canada’s updated travel advisories for Oman, Turkey, United Kingdom, China, Mexico, Philippines, and Indonesia highlight significant security risks that travelers should take into account before embarking on their trips. With rising geopolitical tensions, the threat of terrorism, and localized violence, it is crucial for travelers to stay informed and exercise caution in these regions. By following the recommendations outlined in these advisories, travelers can better protect themselves and avoid potentially dangerous situations while traveling abroad.
