U.S. Embassy in Qatar Maintains Shelter-in-Place Recommendation Amid Regional Tensions
Doha, Qatar – March 15, 2026 – The U.S. Embassy in Doha continues to recommend that all American citizens in Qatar shelter in place as regional tensions persist. This guidance comes following the ordered departure of non-emergency U.S. Government personnel and family members, initially authorized on March 2, 2026, due to the threat of armed conflict between the United States and Iran .
Current Situation and Recommendations
The U.S. Embassy in Doha is maintaining a shelter-in-place order for all remaining emergency personnel. Americans in Qatar are strongly encouraged to remain inside their residences, hotels, or other secure structures, and to stay away from windows . This recommendation is in response to ongoing threats of drone and missile attacks originating from Iran, which began following the onset of hostilities on February 28th .
Travel Advisory and Departure Options
The U.S. Department of State has issued a Level 3 Travel Advisory for Qatar, recommending that U.S. Citizens reconsider travel to the country due to the risk of armed conflict . While commercial flights are still operating, the State Department urges Americans to depart Qatar immediately if possible .
U.S. Citizens considering departure should be aware that the Department of State is coordinating transportation out of the region for those who have completed the Crisis Intake Form, available at https://mytravel.state.gov/s/crisis-intake. However, the State Department emphasizes that any future assisted departure or evacuation should not rely on U.S. Government assistance .
Limited commercial flights are currently operating out of Qatar. Individuals who flew with Qatar Airways can contact them at +974-4144-5555 or 1-877-777-2827. Overland routes to Saudi Arabia, where further commercial departure options are available, are similarly possible .
Consular Services and Emergency Assistance
The U.S. Embassy in Doha has suspended routine consular services as a precautionary measure. Americans in Qatar requiring emergency assistance should contact ACSDoha@state.gov . The State Department Consular Affairs Call Center can be reached at 1-888-407-4747 (in the U.S. Or Canada) or 202-501-4444 (worldwide).
Staying Informed
U.S. Citizens are encouraged to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive safety and security updates from the U.S. Embassy. They should also follow the U.S. Department of State’s updates on WhatsApp via the “U.S. Department of State – Security Updates for U.S. Citizens” channel. For emergency situations within Qatar, dial 999 .
FAA Restrictions
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) and/or a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) for the region, including Qatar, due to risks to civil aviation stemming from political and military tensions . U.S. Operators are advised to review current threat information and report any safety or security incidents.