Saudi Arabia Joins Mexico, Brazil, China, Turkey, Egypt, France, And Jamaica As Australia Issues New Travel Alert Over Heightened Risks

Wednesday, May 28, 2025

Australia has issued a sweeping new travel alert for 2025, placing Saudi Arabia alongside Mexico, Brazil, China, Turkey, Egypt, France, and Jamaica due to a sharp rise in threats to the safety of foreign travelers, including Australians. The advisory stems from a growing pattern of security risks in each of these countries—ranging from violent crime and political unrest to terrorism, legal unpredictability, and natural disasters—prompting Australian authorities to urge citizens to reconsider or take extreme caution when planning visits. From cartel violence in Mexico and drone-related dangers in Saudi Arabia to sporadic civil instability in Turkey and France, the government warns that these evolving conditions pose a serious and immediate danger to tourists abroad.

Australia has issued a renewed travel advisory, warning citizens of increased dangers in several popular international destinations. Countries including Saudi Arabia, Mexico, Brazil, China, Turkey, Egypt, France, and Jamaica now appear on the high-risk list due to escalating threats such as violent crime, terrorism, political instability, natural disasters, and strict local laws.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) urges Australians to carefully assess risks and follow country-specific guidelines before traveling in 2025.

Saudi Arabia: Hajj Restrictions and Missile Threats

Saudi authorities have enforced tight restrictions for the 2025 Hajj season. From 29 April to 11 June, foreign visitors may not enter Makkah unless they hold a Hajj permit, work visa, or residency ID issued in Makkah.

The risk of missile and drone attacks from Yemen remains significant, especially those targeting Israel but failing over Saudi territory. Authorities typically intercept these threats, but the risk persists. Terrorist attacks, extreme summer temperatures above 50°C, and frequent sandstorms further complicate travel.

Mexico: Crime, Kidnappings, and Regional Warnings

Australia urges travelers to carefully reassess plans to visit the Mexican states of Chihuahua, Sinaloa, Guanajuato, Sonora, Colima, and Chiapas, citing a widespread presence of violent criminal activity in these regions.

Cartels operate openly in these areas, where murder, kidnapping, and armed robbery occur regularly. Criminals frequently target drivers at stoplights or on isolated roads. Travelers should avoid nighttime driving, use toll roads, and rely on air travel when moving between cities.

Australian travelers must also complete the online FMM immigration form and carry the corresponding QR code to avoid deportation risks.

Brazil: Visa Requirement and Urban Crime

Starting 10 April 2025, Australians will need a visa to enter Brazil. The country faces a high rate of violent crime, including muggings, armed robbery, and carjackings, especially in large cities.

DFAT strongly discourages entering favelas, even with tour guides. Tourists should avoid isolated areas, especially beaches after dark, and rely on prepaid taxis or verified rideshare apps. Frequent flooding and landslides, particularly during the rainy season, can disrupt travel plans and affect safety.

China: Security Laws and Surveillance

Australian authorities maintain a warning for those heading to China, highlighting the risk of arbitrary detention under China’s expansive national security legislation, which local officials may enforce without clear or consistent legal processes.

The Chinese government enforces strict surveillance, especially in Xinjiang and Tibet. Only organized tours can access Tibet, and security checkpoints are common. DFAT warns against joining protests, taking photos of demonstrations, or engaging in activities that may violate local law. Scams and petty crime remain common in crowded public places.

Turkey: Protest Ban and Earthquake Alerts

Turkey currently enforces a ban on protests, particularly in Istanbul, and authorities often restrict movement for suspected participants. DFAT reports an ongoing terror threat, especially in areas frequented by tourists, such as transport hubs, malls, and religious sites.

Parts of Turkey lie on active earthquake zones. Aftershocks often follow major quakes, and travelers should know local evacuation protocols. Additionally, counterfeit alcohol has led to recent deaths; travelers should avoid suspiciously cheap beverages and drink only at licensed venues.

Egypt: Terrorism and Border Instability

Egypt presents a high risk of terrorist activity, especially in North Sinai and border regions. The Rafah crossing with Gaza frequently closes or comes under airstrikes, complicating cross-border movements.

Terrorist groups have previously targeted tourist attractions and religious sites, often resulting in casualties. Travelers also face increased risks of kidnapping, harassment, and violent crime, particularly women traveling alone. DFAT urges tourists to avoid large crowds and areas with known unrest.

France: Terror Threat and Civil Disruption

France remains under its highest national terror alert. Security forces maintain a visible presence at airports, tourist attractions, and public gatherings.

Terrorist groups could focus on venues linked to LGBTQIA+ events, large-scale music gatherings, or major transportation centers. Incidents of theft, such as bag snatching and pickpocketing, typically surge during high tourist traffic periods. Visitors are advised to stay vigilant in metro systems, around the Eiffel Tower, and other prominent tourist spots.

Frequent strikes and protests also disrupt public services. Demonstrations can escalate into clashes with police, and DFAT warns Australians to avoid large gatherings entirely.

Jamaica: Gang Violence and Tourist Vulnerability

DFAT advises travelers to remain highly cautious while visiting Jamaica, where the risk of gang-driven violence, including armed assaults and homicides, is particularly elevated after dark and in areas outside main tourist zones.

Tourists have been targeted by criminals while using public transportation and riding in unregistered taxis. DFAT advises against walking alone or carrying visible valuables and recommends steering clear of Mountain View Avenue when traveling to or from Norman Manley International Airport. Incidents of drink spiking in nightlife venues have resulted in thefts and physical assaults.

Australia’s 2025 travel warning list now includes Saudi Arabia, Mexico, Brazil, China, Turkey, Egypt, France, and Jamaica because there are increasing threats of terrorist acts, violent crime, political turmoil, arbitrary detention, and restrictions of entry that increase travel hazards for Australians.

As the global security landscape evolves, Australia’s updated travel advisory reminds citizens to take proactive measures. For all listed countries, travelers should:

• Register with SmartTraveller
• Monitor local news
• Buy travel insurance
• Avoid demonstrations
• Follow all legal and health regulations

DFAT encourages Australians to stay informed, prepared, and cautious when exploring destinations like Saudi Arabia, Mexico, Brazil, China, Turkey, Egypt, France, and Jamaica.