Australian authorities have lowered the risk rating for travel to two popular countries in the Middle East.

The Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade reviewed its advice for travel to Qatar and the United Arab Emirates on Thursday.

Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Doha are major stopover hubs for Australians travelling to Europe as well as destinations in themselves.

It demoted the risk from 'Level Three - Reconsider your need to travel' to 'Level Two - Exercise a high degree of caution'.

The Gulf States were assessed as high-risk destinations after a bombing campaign by the United States and Israel on Iran triggered war in February.

While the conflict is ongoing, DFAT's Smartraveller noted the risk to tourists in Qatar and the UAE is lower.

However, it noted the 'region remains unpredictable and there is still a risk of escalation and attacks'.

'We now advise exercise a high degree of caution due to the threat of terrorism and the unpredictable security situation in the region,' it said.

'Military strikes and reprisal attacks have occurred across parts of the Middle East region in recent days. 

'Prioritise your safety. Follow local warning systems, and if warned of an imminent attack, seek shelter indoors away from windows and external walls.'

Smartraveller urged Australians in the region to closely 'monitor developments and follow the advice of local authorities'.  

'Stay aware of your environment. Avoid locations at high risk of being targeted. Avoid military sites and bases, government buildings and energy infrastructure,' it said.

'These locations are not always signposted, particularly military sites. 

'There may be increased risk of attacks on US interests globally including diplomatic facilities, businesses and other institutions.'

Dubai International Airport, a major travel hub and key layover destination, faced retaliatory Iranian drone and missile strikes in the early days of the conflict.

Commercial flights have since resumed but occasionally face delays.

'Military conflict in the region may result in widespread movement restrictions, airspace closures, flight cancellations and other travel disruptions,' Smartraveller said.

'UAE airspace may open or close at short notice, impacting flights at Abu Dhabi and Dubai International Airports. 

'Check information about airport and airline operations before you travel. Check the status of any border crossing before you travel by air, land or sea.'

Terrorism remains a major threat in the region with DFAT warning 'attacks could happen at any time or anywhere'.

'Avoid possible targets including venues that draw in foreigners, tourists or crowds where possible,' it said. 

'If there's a security incident, follow the advice of local authorities.'

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