More than 6,400 South Africans in the Middle East have registered their presence on the Travel Smart System, according to the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO).
The department said the surge in registrations reflects growing concern among citizens as tensions and hostilities continue in parts of the region. Officials are urging South Africans travelling for non-essential purposes to consider leaving affected areas while commercial flights remain available.
DIRCO explained that the Travel Smart System helps authorities track and assist citizens in high-risk regions, particularly if evacuation support becomes necessary.
The department also warned that the security situation in the Middle East could worsen in the coming days, increasing the risk to civilians. South Africans have therefore been advised to avoid all non-essential travel to the region until conditions stabilise.
Citizens experiencing difficulties with evacuation or requiring urgent consular assistance have been encouraged to contact DIRCO through its official channels.
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