UAE issues travel warning for Jammu and Kashmir

Authorities advise citizens to postpone travel to the Himalayan region

A deserted street is seen through barbwire set up as a blockade during curfew in Srinagar, Indian controlled Kashmir. AP

The UAE government has issued a travel warning for Jammu and Kashmir in India.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation advised citizens to postpone any plans to travel to the region due to escalating tensions.

On Monday, India announced a controversial decision to revoke Article 370, stripping the state of Jammu and Kashmir of autonomy after seven decades.

The move has severely strained already fragile relations between India and Pakistan, with both countries controlling different parts of the territory.

“As a result of the current situation, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation advises citizens to postpone travel to the state of Jammu and Kashmir for the time being, and calls upon those who are there to follow the instructions of local authorities," a statement said.

Since India's announcement, an indefinite security lockdown has been put in place in the Indian-controlled part of Kashmir, confining millions of people to their homes.

Authorities also suspended some internet, TV and mobile phone services, leaving most residents with no connection to the outside world.

Last month, the UAE consulate in Hong Kong issued a travel warning to citizens travelling to Hong Kong amid ongoing protests in the former British colony.