United Arab Emirates travel restrictions
| Airlines Updates | Published on 19.01.2021 Published on 18.01.2021 Published on 14.12.2020 Published on 27.11.2020 Published on 21.11.2020 Published on 11.11.2020 Published on 09.11.2020 Published on 21.10.2020 Published on 19.10.2020 15.10.2020 Emirates in this week’s schedule update further revised service for London, during winter 2020/21 season. Latest adjustment sees the airline delays planned Dubai – London Gatwick service resumption to 28MAR21, instead of 01DEC20. The airline will continue to operate Dubai – London Heathrow route, 2 daily each A380 and 777-300ER. EK007 DXB0310 – 0710LHR 77W D EK008 LHR0910 – 2000DXB 77W D Separately, the airline has reduced Airbus A380 operation on Dubai – Manchester route for winter season from 01DEC20. The A380 is now scheduled to operate 5 times per week, instead of 6, from 02DEC20. The airline schedules 10 weekly flights from 01DEC20 to 27MAR21. 15.10.2020 Air Arabia today (15OCT20) resumes service at Ras al Khaimah, as the airport reopened to scheduled passenger flights. Initially the airline will offering following routes, on board Airbus A320 aircraft. Ras al Khaimah – Cairo eff 15OCT20 3 weekly Emirates in recent schedule update filed additional changes for Australia and New Zealand for Northern winter 2020/21 season, focusing on Sydney and Christchurch. Between 25OCT20 and 27MAR21, planned operation as follows. Dubai – Sydney 4 weekly 777-300ER Dubai – Sydney – Christchurch 1 weekly 777-300ER cancelled 15.10.2020 Etihad Airways in previous week’s schedule update removed Airbus A380 schedule listing, including all dates in 2021. The airline previously filed following A380 service for Northern summer 2021 season, from 28MAR21 to 30OCT21. Abu Dhabi – London Heathrow As of 13OCT20, previously listed A380 service is now listed as Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner. Published on 14.10.2020 Published on 13.10.2020 Published on 12.10.2020 Published on 07.10.2020 Published on 06.10.2020 02.10.2020 Etihad in this week’s schedule update extended revised listing into November 2020, as the airline continues to restore additional routes. As of 01OCT20, planned operation for the period of 01OCT20 – 30NOV20 as follows. Note following routes is based on the airline’s list of destinations planned in October and November. Selected routes not mentioned below (such as Los Angeles, Vienna, Beijing) are still open for reservation, as of 01OCT20. Additional changes remain possible, due to various travel restrictions. Published on 30.09.2020 29.09.2020 Emirates in the last 24 hours continue to file adjust operational network for Northern winter 2020/21 season, from 25OCT20 to 27MAR21. As of 1100GMT 24SEP20, the airline has removed Dallas/Ft. Worth, Edinburgh, London Stansted, Mexico City, Newcastle, St. Petersburg, San Francisco and Tokyo Haneda from its winter schedule. These destinations are expected to resume as early as 28MAR21. Latest adjustment as follows. Further changes remain likely. Dubai – Baghdad Reduce from 7 to 4 weekly, 777-300ER operating (Previous plan: 7 weekly from 01DEC20) Dubai – Guangzhou Reduce from 7 to 2 weekly, A380 operating (Previous plan: 7 weekly) Dubai – Karachi Reduce from 5 to 3 daily, 777-300ER operating Dubai – Lyon eff 02DEC20 Reduce from 7 to 3 weekly, 777-300ER operating (Previous plan: 4 weekly) Dubai – Mauritius Reduce from 14 weekly A380 to following Dubai – Milan Malpensa Dubai – Milan Malpensa – New York JFK (EK205/206) eff 01DEC20 Service resumption, reduce from 7 to 5 weekly, 777-200LR replaces -300ER (Previous plan: 7 weekly) Dubai – Newcastle Service cancelled in NW20 (Previous plan: reduce from 7 to 5 weekly from 02DEC20) Previously reported adjustment: Dubai – Casablanca Reduce from 7 weekly A380 to 3 weekly 777-300ER (5 weekly from 02DEC20) Dubai – Los Angeles Reduce from 7 weekly A380 to 4 weekly 777-300ER Dubai – Lusaka – Harare Reduce from 7 to 3 weekly, 777-300ER operating Dubai – Sialkot 7 weekly 777-300ER 29.09.2020 flydubai this month gradually filed service reduction for the first half of Northern winter 2020/21 season, from 25OCT20 to 31DEC20. Planned service reductions, based on comparison of OAG schedules 02AUG20 vs 27SEP20, as follows. Additional changes remain highly possible. Dubai – Abha Reduce from 14 to 7 weekly Following route sees frequency increase for entire winter season: Following routes cancelled during winter season: Published on 28.09.2020 Published on 26.09.2020 Published on 25.09.2020 Emirates in the last 48 – 72 hours further filed schedule changes for Northern winter 2020/21 season. Latest adjustment as of 2100GMT 05SEP20 sees additional service reduction, including previously planned reduction in November being expanded to entire winter season. Further changes remain highly possible. Due to various travel restrictions, selected routes to Australia and New Zealand currently displaying restrictions on reservations. Dubai – Abuja Reduce from 7 to 3 weekly Dubai – Amman 25OCT20 – 30NOV20 Reduce from 3 to 2 daily Dubai – Athens – Newark 1 daily Dubai – Bangkok – Hong Kong 1 daily Dubai – Barcelona – Mexico City 25OCT20 – 30NOV20 1 daily 777-200LR cancelled (Service on/after 01DEC20 remains available for reservation as of 06SEP20) Dubai – Bologna Reduce from 7 to 4 weekly Dubai – Brisbane Reduce from 14 to 2 weekly Dubai – Budapest Reduce from 7 weekly to following Dubai – Cairo Reduce from 25 weekly to following Dubai – Cape Town Reduce from 14 weekly to following Dubai – Casablanca Reduce from 7 to 5 weekly Dubai – Colombo Reduce from 3 daily to following Dubai – Conakry – Dakar – Dubai Reduce from 5 to 2 weekly Dubai – Dammam 25OCT20 – 31DEC20 Reduce from 4 to 2 daily Dubai – Delhi Reduce from 4 daily to following Dubai – Denpasar Reduce from 7 to 4 weekly Dubai – Dublin Reduce from 14 weekly to following Dubai – Durban Reduce from 7 to 4 weekly Dubai – Fort Lauderdale 4 weekly 777-200LR service cancelled permanently Dubai – Geneva Reduce from 14 weekly to following Dubai – Glasgow Service reduction in effect until 31DEC20, reduce from 14 weekly to following Dubai – Guangzhou 1 daily (tentative schedule) Dubai – Ho Chi Minh City Reduce from 14 weekly to following Dubai – Hong Kong Dubai – Houston Reduce from 7 weekly to following Dubai – Hyderabad Reduce from 3 to 2 daily Dubai – Jeddah 25OCT20 – 30NOV20 Reduce from 3 to 2 daily Dubai – Kabul 1 daily Dubai – Khartoum 25OCT20 – 28NOV20 Reduce from 7 to 5 weekly Dubai – Kuala Lumpur – Auckland Service operates 4 weekly with 777-300ER (Previous plan Nonstop 7 weekly). This routing will operate entire Northern winter season (No traffic rights for Kuala Lumpur on EK448/449) Dubai – Lahore 10 weekly Dubai – London Gatwick Reduce from 3 to 1 daily Overall service for London reduced from 77 weekly (11 daily) to 35 weekly in November, 40 weekly from 01DEC20. Dubai – Los Angeles Reduce from 7 weekly to following Dubai – Luanda Reduce from 7 to 3 weekly Dubai – Madinah Reduce from 14 to 4 weekly Dubai – Mahe Island Reduce from 14 weekly to following Dubai – Male Nonstop terminator service reduces from 2 to 1 daily Dubai – Manila Reduce from 18 to 14 weekly Dubai – Melbourne Nonstop terminator service reduces from 14 to 3 weekly Dubai – Milan Malpensa – New York JFK 1 daily (777-300ER) Dubai – Munich Reduce from 21 weekly to following Dubai – Muscat Reduce from 3 to 1 daily Dubai – New York JFK Nonstop sector reduces from 2 to 1 daily Dubai – Orlando Dubai – Osaka Kansai Reduce from 7 to 4 weekly (Previous plan: 5 weekly in November) Dubai – Porto 4 weekly service cancelled in NW20 Dubai – Rio de Janeiro Galeao – Buenos Aires Ezeiza 4 weekly 777-300ER service cancelled permanently Dubai – St. Petersburg 1 daily (Previously reported on Airlineroute, reservation re-opened for winter season) Dubai – Sao Paulo Guarulhos Reduce from 7 weekly to following Dubai – Seattle Reduce from 7 weekly to following Dubai – Seoul Incheon Reduce from 7 weekly to following Dubai – Shanghai Pu Dong 2 daily (tentative schedule) Dubai – Singapore 25OCT20 – 30NOV20 Nonstop terminator service reduces from 21 weekly to following Dubai – Singapore – Melbourne Reservation for 1 daily service closed for all dates, including all dates in 2021 Dubai – Sydney Nonstop terminator service reduces from 14 weekly to following Dubai – Sydney – Christchurch 1 daily Dubai – Venice Reduce from 7 to 4 weekly Dubai – Warsaw 25OCT20 – 30NOV20 Reduce from 7 to 3 weekly Dubai – Zurich Reduce from 14 weekly to following Published on 09.09.2020 |
| Full Restrictions | |
| Open for travel from United Arab Emirates | |
| Crossing Rules | Entry restrictions for passengers who arrive from or have been in United Kingdom Entry restrictions Entry restrictions for passengers who arrive from or have been in Afghanistan, Angola, Argentina, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Chile, Côte d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Croatia, Cyprus, Czechia, Djibouti, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Georgia, Ghana, Greece, Guinea, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Kenya, Lebanon, Malta, Moldova, Montenegro, Morocco, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Philippines, Romania, Russia, Rwanda, Senegal, Slovakia, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Tunisia, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Uganda, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, Vietnam, Zambia, Zimbabwe Ban entry for passengers who arrive from or during last 14 days have been in Nigeria Ban entry for passengers who arrive from or during last 14 days have been in South Africa Flights from/to Yemen are suspended Flights from/to Nigeria, South Africa are suspended Quarantine is possible Forced isolation for passengers who arrive from or have been in United Kingdom |
| Flight Restrictions | published 29.10.2020 Entry restrictions |
| Quarantine | Self-isolation at own accommodation. |
| Insurance | |
| Certification | COVID-19 negative certification required for entering the country. From 31 January, residents, tourists and visitors travelling from or through the UK and arriving in Dubai must have a negative COVID-19 PCR test which was taken no more than 72 hours before departure and present the certificate at check in. Travellers may also be required to undertake a further COVID-19 PCR test on arrival in Dubai and will have to isolate pending the result of the COVID-19 PCR test. If you test positive for COVID-19 on arrival in Dubai, depending on your symptoms and your accommodation plans, you may be required to self-isolate in a government facility, a hospital, your hotel or privately arranged accommodation for at least 10 days. Further details are available on Etihad Airlines Website. |
| Vaccination | Yellow fever (2019) |
Full Restrictions
United Arab Emirates Latest News: Travelers from South Africa banned from entry to United Arab Emirates starting 23 January (Sources, 23.01.2021). All air and sea points of entry between the UAE and Qatar reopened on 9 January 2021. (UK.Gov, 11.01.2021).
International Restrictions:
Entry rules in response to coronavirus (COVID-19)
*Testing before arrival: COVID-19 entry requirements may change at short notice, and travellers to the UAE are strongly encouraged to check the specifics, including the time frames for undertaking COVID-19 PCR tests before departure with their airline before they travel. Further details are available on British Airways, Emirates and Etihad websites including information about what these airlines accept as proof of a negative test.
Residents, tourists and visitors travelling from or through the UK and arriving in Dubai and Abu Dhabi must have a negative COVID-19 PCR test which was taken no more than 72 hours before departure and present the certificate at check in. Travellers arriving in Abu Dhabi will also be required to undertake a COVID-19 PCR test on arrival. Travellers arriving in Dubai may be required to undertake a further COVID-19 PCR test on arrival and will have to isolate pending the result of the COVID-19 PCR test. Further details are available on British Airways, Etihad and Emirates.
If you test positive for COVID-19 on arrival in Dubai, depending on your symptoms and your accommodation plans, you may be required to self-isolate in a government facility, a hospital, your hotel or privately arranged accommodation for at least 10 days.
If you are transiting through the UAE to a country that requires a COVID-19 PCR test on arrival, then you must obtain a negative COVID-19 PCR test before travelling.
In all circumstances, the test must be a COVID-19 PCR swab test. Other test results including antibody tests are not accepted.
Further information about COVID-19 testing for travellers is available on the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority website. Children under the age of 12 and those with severe and moderate disabilities will be exempted from the test requirement. Those entering the country may also be asked to take a further COVID-19 PCR test on arrival and to complete a period of self-isolation or quarantine.
You should arrange to take a private test.<>br
*Entry to Abu Dhabi: Visitors can travel to Abu Dhabi by road but must have had a negative COVID-19 PCR test before travel. There is also a requirement for further testing if visitors and residents remain in Abu Dhabi for 4 days or longer. The rules for entering and remaining in Abu Dhabi change regularly and you should check the current requirement from the Abu Dhabi Media Office and on the Emirates News Agency website.
All arrivals in Abu Dhabi must isolate for 10 days on arrival although arrivals from certain countries as listed on the Visit Abu Dhabi website will not be required to isolate.
All arrivals in Abu Dhabi will be required to wear a medically approved wristband for the duration of their quarantine. The wristband will be provided at Abu Dhabi airport after clearing immigration. Arrivals under the age of 18, over the age of 60, diplomats or those suffering from a chronic disease will be exempt from having to wear the wristband. Further information is available on the Etihad Airlines website including a guide for arrivals in Abu Dhabi. Further advice for international arrivals in Abu Dhabi is also available from the Abu Dhabi Media Office.
*Dubai residents returning to or leaving Dubai: Further information about what returning residents need to do before they travel and what will happen on arrival in Dubai is available on the Government of Dubai website including information about testing on arrival and quarantine.
Dubai residents must apply for a permit to return on the Dubai Government General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs website. Further information about how to book a flight for returning residents is available on the Emirates Airline website. On their return to Dubai, returning residents will have to register their details on the COVID-19 DXB App.
*Visitors to Dubai: Further information about what visitors need to do before they travel and what will happen on arrival in Dubai is available on the Government of Dubai website including information about testing before departure, on arrival and quarantine. Further information for visitors to Dubai is available on the Emirates Airline website.
Visitors to Dubai will also have to register their details on the COVID-19 DXB App.
Before visitors fly to Dubai, they will also be required to complete a Health Declaration Form and a Quarantine Form. Both forms need to be printed, completed and handed over to Dubai Health Authority staff on arrival. Visitors to Dubai will also have to register their details on the COVID-19 DXB App.
Visitors must have international health insurance before travelling.
All visitors to Dubai must adhere to all public health measures issued by the Dubai authorities including any requirements to quarantine.
*Quarantine requirements: Stringent entry restrictions remain in place upon arrival at all airports in the UAE which may include, but are not limited to, a Health Authority COVID-19 PCR test on arrival, mandatory quarantine period, usually via self-isolation at a private address if suitable, or a hotel or Government facility and follow up testing before you are able to complete quarantine. Once any quarantine period is complete you must continue to comply with all measures put in place by the UAE authorities to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Arrivals from countries that the UAE authorities consider high risk, and/or for whom the authorities assess private accommodation in the UAE to be unsuitable, are likely to be required to quarantine in a government quarantine facility.
*Cruise ships: Passenger cruises are currently not allowed to dock in the UAE as a result of measures taken to combat COVID-19. A UAE-wide notice to mariners has issued. The Cruise Line International Association (CLIA) has adopted an enhanced member health policy which all CLIA ocean member cruise lines are required to follow to address COVID-19.
If you are planning to travel on an international cruise that is due to call at any port in the UAE, contact your travel company for the latest information.
Internal Restrictions:
*Travel within the United Arab Emirates: COVID-19 cases continue to be recorded in the UAE and public health measures are in place in response to the outbreak. These can vary between each Emirates and the ease of movement between regions is affected. The local rules may change, including at short notice. You should check them carefully before you travel and whilst you are in the UAE, and ensure you comply. The UAE authorities have stated that any violation of instructions and procedures put in place to limit the spread of COVID-19 will be treated as a crime punishable by law.
Since 2 June 2020, travel by land to the Emirate of Abu Dhabi has been restricted although movement within the Emirate of Abu Dhabi is allowed. The rules for entering and remaining in Abu Dhabi change regularly and you should check the current requirement from the Abu Dhabi Media Office and on the Emirates News Agency website.
*Public spaces and services: Most shops, restaurants, tourist attractions and religious establishments are open but there are restrictions and requirements in place to help contain the disease. Social distancing and the wearing of face masks is mandatory when away from your home. This also applies to visitors staying in hotels when they are not in their room. Most schools across the UAE reopened at the start of the 2020/21 academic year with a number of COVID-19 measures in place. Some have since closed following COVID-19 outbreaks. All schools in Abu Dhabi and some schools in Dubai moved to remote learning at the beginning of 2021 although some are starting to reopen with COVID-19 measures in place. Many events in the UAE been cancelled. If you are planning to attend a specific event, check with the organisers.
United Arab Emirates Latest News: Travelers from South Africa banned from entry to United Arab Emirates starting 23 January (Sources, 23.01.2021). All air and sea points of entry between the UAE and Qatar reopened on 9 January 2021. (UK.Gov, 11.01.2021).
International Restrictions:
Entry rules in response to coronavirus (COVID-19)
*Testing before arrival: COVID-19 entry requirements may change at short notice, and travellers to the UAE are strongly encouraged to check the specifics, including the time frames for undertaking COVID-19 PCR tests before departure with their airline before they travel. Further details are available on British Airways
, Emirates
and Etihad
websites including information about what these airlines accept as proof of a negative test.
From 31 January, residents, tourists and visitors travelling from or through the UK and arriving in Dubai must have a negative COVID-19 PCR test which was taken no more than 72 hours before departure and present the certificate at check in. Travellers may also be required to undertake a further COVID-19 PCR test on arrival in Dubai and will have to isolate pending the result of the COVID-19 PCR test. Further details are available on British Airways
and Emirates.
If you test positive for COVID-19 on arrival in Dubai, depending on your symptoms and your accommodation plans, you may be required to self-isolate in a government facility, a hospital, your hotel or privately arranged accommodation for at least 10 days. For the rest of the UAE, all travellers have to undertake a COVID-19 PCR test in the country they are currently in, and have proof of a negative result, before travelling to the UAE. Those travelling to Abu Dhabi or through the UK and certain other countries are required to undertake a COVID-19 PCR test within 72 hours of departure and have a negative result. Travellers to Abu Dhabi are also required to have a test on arrival. Further details are available on Etihad Airlines Website.
If you are transiting through the UAE to a country that requires a COVID-19 PCR test on arrival, then you must obtain a negative COVID-19 PCR test before travelling. In all circumstances, the test must be a COVID-19 PCR swab test. Other test results including antibody tests are not accepted.
Further information about COVID-19 testing for travellers is available on the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority website. Children under the age of 12 and those with severe and moderate disabilities will be exempted from the test requirement. Those entering the country may also be asked to take a further COVID-19 PCR test on arrival and to complete a period of self-isolation or quarantine.You should arrange to take a private test.
*Entry to the United Arab Emirates other than Dubai: Some foreign residents, including British Nationals, are being allowed to return to the UAE based on criteria set by the UAE authorities. Visitors have been allowed to travel by air to Abu Dhabi with effect from 24 December 2020. Travellers to Abu Dhabi from the UK must have had a negative COVID-19 PCR test within 72 hours of departure. Travellers to Abu Dhabi will also be tested on arrival.
Visitors can travel to Abu Dhabi by road but must have had a negative COVID-19 PCR test before travel. There is also a requirement for further testing if visitors and residents remain in Abu Dhabi for 4 days or longer. The rules for entering and remaining in Abu Dhabi change regularly and you should check the current requirement from the Abu Dhabi Media Office
and on the Emirates News Agency website.
All arrivals in Abu Dhabi must isolate for 10 days on arrival although arrivals from certain countries as listed on the Visit Abu Dhabi website
will not be required to isolate. All arrivals in Abu Dhabi will be required to wear a medically approved wristband for the duration of their quarantine. The wristband will be provided at Abu Dhabi airport after clearing immigration. Arrivals under the age of 18, over the age of 60, diplomats or those suffering from a chronic disease will be exempt from having to wear the wristband. Further information is available on the Etihad Airlines website
including a guide for arrivals in Abu Dhabi. Further advice for international arrivals in Abu Dhabi is also available from the Abu Dhabi Media Office
.
The National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority announced on 12 August 2020 that, apart from Dubai, there is no longer a requirement for residents who wish to return to the UAE to get permission to travel. Further information is available on the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority website.
*Dubai residents returning to or leaving Dubai: Dubai residents overseas have been allowed to return to Dubai from 22 June 2020 and Dubai residents within Dubai have been allowed to travel overseas from 23 June 2020. Further information about what returning residents need to do before they travel and what will happen on arrival in Dubai is available on the Government of Dubai website
including information about testing on arrival and quarantine.
Dubai residents must apply for a permit to return on the Dubai Government General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs website. Before they fly returning residents will also be required to complete a Health Declaration Form and a Quarantine Form. Both forms need to be printed, completed and handed over to Dubai Health Authority staff on arrival. Further information about how to book a flight for returning residents is available on the Emirates Airline website.
On their return to Dubai, returning residents will have to register their details on the COVID-19 DXB App.
*Visitors to Dubai: Visitors have been able to travel to Dubai from 7 July 2020. Further information about what visitors need to do before they travel and what will happen on arrival in Dubai is available on the
Government of Dubai website including information about testing before departure, on arrival and quarantine.
Before visitors fly to Dubai, they will also be required to complete a
Health Declaration Form and a
Quarantine Form. Both forms need to be printed, completed and handed over to Dubai Health Authority staff on arrival. Visitors to Dubai will also have to register their details on the COVID-19 DXB App.
Visitors must have international health insurance before travelling.All visitors to Dubai must adhere to all public health measures issued by the Dubai authorities including any requirements to quarantine.
*Quarantine requirements: Stringent entry restrictions remain in place upon arrival at all airports in the UAE which may include, but are not limited to, a Health Authority COVID-19 PCR test on arrival, mandatory quarantine period, usually via self-isolation at a private address if suitable, or a hotel or Government facility and follow up testing before you are able to complete quarantine. Once any quarantine period is complete you must continue to comply with all measures put in place by the UAE authorities to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Arrivals from countries that the UAE authorities consider high risk, and/or for whom the authorities assess private accommodation in the UAE to be unsuitable, are likely to be required to quarantine in a government quarantine facility.
*Cruise ships: Passenger cruises are currently not allowed to dock in the UAE as a result of measures taken to combat COVID-19. A UAE-wide notice to mariners has issued.
The Cruise Line International Association (CLIA) has adopted an enhanced member health policy
which all CLIA ocean member cruise lines are required to follow to address COVID-19.If you are planning to travel on an international cruise that is due to call at any port in the UAE, contact your travel company for the latest information.
Internal Restrictions:
*Travel within the United Arab Emirates: COVID-19 cases continue to be recorded in the UAE and public health measures are in place in response to the outbreak. These can vary between each Emirates and the ease of movement between regions is affected. The local rules may change, including at short notice. You should check them carefully before you travel and whilst you are in the UAE, and ensure you comply. The UAE authorities have stated that any violation of instructions and procedures put in place to limit the spread of COVID-19 will be treated as a crime punishable by law.
Since 2 June 2020, travel by land to the Emirate of Abu Dhabi has been restricted although movement within the Emirate of Abu Dhabi is allowed. The rules for entering and remaining in Abu Dhabi change regularly and you should check the current requirement from the Abu Dhabi Media Office and on the Emirates News Agency website.
*Public spaces and services: Most shops, restaurants, tourist attractions and religious establishments are open but there are restrictions and requirements in place to help contain the disease. Social distancing and the wearing of face masks is mandatory when away from your home. This also applies to visitors staying in hotels when they are not in their room. Most schools across the UAE reopened at the start of the 2020/21 academic year with a number of COVID-19 measures in place. Some have since closed following COVID-19 outbreaks. All schools in Abu Dhabi and some schools in Dubai moved to remote learning at the beginning of 2021 although some are starting to reopen with COVID-19 measures in place. Many events in the UAE been cancelled. If you are planning to attend a specific event, check with the organisers.
United Arab Emirates Latest News: Travelers from South Africa banned from entry to United Arab Emirates starting 23 January (Sources, 23.01.2021). All air and sea points of entry between the UAE and Qatar reopened on 9 January 2021. (UK.Gov, 11.01.2021).
International Restrictions:
*Testing before arrival: COVID-19 entry requirements may change at short notice, and travellers to the UAE are strongly encouraged to check the specifics, including the time frames for undertaking COVID-19 PCR tests before departure with their airline before they travel. Further details are available on Emirates and Etihad websites including information about what these airlines accept as proof of a negative test. From 31 January, residents, tourists and visitors travelling from or through the UK and arriving in Dubai must have a negative COVID-19 PCR test which was taken no more than 72 hours before departure and present the certificate at check in. Travellers may also be required to undertake a further COVID-19 PCR test on arrival in Dubai and will have to isolate pending the result of the COVID-19 PCR test. Further details are available on Emirates. Travellers may also be required to undertake a further COVID-19 PCR test on arrival in Dubai and will have to isolate pending the result of the COVID-19 PCR test. If you test positive for COVID-19 on arrival in Dubai, depending on your symptoms and your accommodation plans, you may be required to self-isolate in a government facility, a hospital, your hotel or privately arranged accommodation for at least 10 days. For the rest of the UAE, all travellers have to undertake a COVID-19 PCR test in the country they are currently in, and have proof of a negative result, before travelling to the UAE. Those travelling to Abu Dhabi or through the UK and certain other countries are required to undertake a COVID-19 PCR test within 72 hours of departure and have a negative result. Travellers to Abu Dhabi are also required to have a test on arrival. Further details are available on Etihad Airlines Website.
If you are transiting through the UAE to a country that requires a COVID-19 PCR test on arrival, then you must obtain a negative COVID-19 PCR test before travelling.
In all circumstances, the test must be a COVID-19 PCR swab test. Other test results including antibody tests are not accepted. Further information about COVID-19 testing for travellers is available on the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority website. Children under the age of 12 and those with severe and moderate disabilities will be exempted from the test requirement. Those entering the country may also be asked to take a further COVID-19 PCR test on arrival and to complete a period of self-isolation or quarantine.
*Entry to the United Arab Emirates other than Dubai: Some foreign residents, including British Nationals, are being allowed to return to the UAE based on criteria set by the UAE authorities. Visitors have been allowed to travel by air to Abu Dhabi with effect from 24 December 2020. Travellers to Abu Dhabi from the UK must have had a negative COVID-19 PCR test within 72 hours of departure. Travellers to Abu Dhabi will also be tested on arrival.
Visitors can travel to Abu Dhabi by road but must have had a negative COVID-19 PCR test before travel. There is also a requirement for further testing if visitors and residents remain in Abu Dhabi for six four days or longer. The rules for entering and remaining in Abu Dhabi change regularly and you should check the current requirement from the Abu Dhabi Media Office and on the Emirates News Agency website.
All arrivals in Abu Dhabi must isolate for 10 days on arrival although arrivals from certain countries as listed on the Visit Abu Dhabi website will not be required to isolate.
Travellers entering Abu Dhabi who have participated in the UAE voluntary COVID19 vaccination programme or have participated in the third phase of clinical vaccination research or who have obtained a mark in the ‘Al Hosn App’ are exempt from quarantine on arrival in Abu Dhabi. All arrivals in Abu Dhabi will be required to wear a medically approved wristband for the duration of their quarantine. The wristband will be provided at Abu Dhabi airport after clearing immigration. Arrivals under the age of 18, over the age of 60, diplomats or those suffering from a chronic disease will be exempt from having to wear the wristband. Further information is available on the Etihad Airlines website including a guide for arrivals in Abu Dhabi. Further advice for international arrivals in Abu Dhabi is also available from the Abu Dhabi Media Office.
The National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority announced on 12 August 2020 that, apart from Dubai, there is no longer a requirement for residents who wish to return to the UAE to get permission to travel. Further information is available on the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority website.
*Dubai residents returning to or leaving Dubai: Dubai residents overseas have been allowed to return to Dubai from 22 June 2020 and Dubai residents within Dubai have been allowed to travel overseas from 23 June 2020. Further information about what returning residents need to do before they travel and what will happen on arrival in Dubai is available on the Government of Dubai website including information about testing on arrival and quarantine. Dubai residents must apply for a permit to return on the Dubai Government General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs website. Before they fly returning residents will also be required to complete a Health Declaration Form and a Quarantine Form. Both forms need to be printed, completed and handed over to Dubai Health Authority staff on arrival. Further information about how to book a flight for returning residents is available on the Emirates Airline website.
On their return to Dubai, returning residents will have to register their details on the COVID-19 DXB App.
*Visitors to Dubai: Visitors have been able to travel to Dubai from 7 July 2020. Further information about what visitors need to do before they travel and what will happen on arrival in Dubai is available on the Government of Dubai website including information about testing before departure, on arrival and quarantine. Before visitors fly to Dubai, they will also be required to complete a Health Declaration Form and a Quarantine Form. Both forms need to be printed, completed and handed over to Dubai Health Authority staff on arrival. Visitors to Dubai will also have to register their details on the COVID-19 DXB App.
Visitors must have international health insurance before travelling. All visitors to Dubai must adhere to all public health measures issued by the Dubai authorities including any requirements to quarantine.
*Quarantine requirements: Stringent entry restrictions remain in place upon arrival at all airports in the UAE which may include, but are not limited to, a Health Authority COVID-19 PCR test on arrival, mandatory quarantine period, usually via self-isolation at a private address if suitable, or a hotel or Government facility and follow up testing before you are able to complete quarantine. Once any quarantine period is complete you must continue to comply with all measures put in place by the UAE authorities to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Arrivals from countries that the UAE authorities consider high risk, and/or for whom the authorities assess private accommodation in the UAE to be unsuitable, are likely to be required to quarantine in a government quarantine facility.
*Cruise ships: Passenger cruises are currently not allowed to dock in the UAE as a result of measures taken to combat COVID-19. A UAE-wide notice to mariners has issued. The Cruise Line International Association (CLIA) has adopted an enhanced member health policy which all CLIA ocean member cruise lines are required to follow to address COVID-19.
If you are planning to travel on an international cruise that is due to call at any port in the UAE, contact your travel company for the latest information.
*Exit rules in response to coronavirus (COVID-19). With effect from 1 August 2020, all travellers departing from Abu Dhabi to the EU will need to have a negative COVID-19 PCR test result taken within 96 hours prior to their departure. This is also a requirement for travellers to other countries that require a negative COVID-19 PCR test before arrival. Children under the age of 12 and those with severe and moderate disabilities will be exempted from the test requirement. Transit passengers from some countries are required to conduct a COVID-19 PCR test prior to departure for Dubai. The pre-travel test is also mandatory for transit passengers if their destination country requires them to do so. Further information is available on the hereDubai Media Office website. Further information is available on the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority website. Further information about testing facilities in the UAE is available on the UAE Government Portal.
Internal Restrictions:
*Travel within the United Arab Emirates: COVID-19 cases continue to be recorded in the UAE and public health measures are in place in response to the outbreak. These can vary between each Emirates and the ease of movement between regions is affected. The local rules may change, including at short notice. You should check them carefully before you travel and whilst you are in the UAE, and ensure you comply. The UAE authorities have stated that any violation of instructions and procedures put in place to limit the spread of COVID-19 will be treated as a crime punishable by law.
Since 2 June 2020, travel by land to the Emirate of Abu Dhabi has been restricted although movement within the Emirate of Abu Dhabi is allowed. The rules for entering and remaining in Abu Dhabi change regularly and you should check the current requirement from the Abu Dhabi Media Office and on the Emirates News Agency website.
*Public spaces and services: Most shops, restaurants, tourist attractions and religious establishments are open but there are restrictions and requirements in place to help contain the disease. Social distancing and the wearing of face masks is mandatory when away from your home. This also applies to visitors staying in hotels when they are not in their room. Most schools across the UAE reopened at the start of the 2020/21 academic year with a number of COVID-19 measures in place. Some have since closed following COVID-19 outbreaks. All schools in Abu Dhabi and some schools in Dubai moved to remote learning at the beginning of 2021 although some are starting to reopen with COVID-19 measures in place. Many events in the UAE been cancelled. If you are planning to attend a specific event, check with the organisers.
United Arab Emirates Latest News: Travelers from South Africa banned from entry to United Arab Emirates starting 23 January (Sources, 23.01.2021). All air and sea points of entry between the UAE and Qatar reopened on 9 January 2021. (UK.Gov, 11.01.2021).
International Restrictions:
*Testing before arrival: COVID-19 entry requirements may change at short notice, and travellers to the UAE are strongly encouraged to check the specifics, including the time frames for undertaking COVID-19 PCR tests before departure with their airline before they travel. Further details are available on Emirates and Etihad websites including information about what these airlines accept as proof of a negative test. From 31 January, residents, tourists and visitors travelling from or through the UK and arriving in Dubai must have a negative COVID-19 PCR test which was taken no more than 72 hours before departure and present the certificate at check in. Travellers may also be required to undertake a further COVID-19 PCR test on arrival in Dubai and will have to isolate pending the result of the COVID-19 PCR test. Further details are available on Emirates. Travellers may also be required to undertake a further COVID-19 PCR test on arrival in Dubai and will have to isolate pending the result of the COVID-19 PCR test. If you test positive for COVID-19 on arrival in Dubai, depending on your symptoms and your accommodation plans, you may be required to self-isolate in a government facility, a hospital, your hotel or privately arranged accommodation for at least 10 days. For the rest of the UAE, all travellers have to undertake a COVID-19 PCR test in the country they are currently in, and have proof of a negative result, before travelling to the UAE. Those travelling to Abu Dhabi or through the UK and certain other countries are required to undertake a COVID-19 PCR test within 72 hours of departure and have a negative result. Travellers to Abu Dhabi are also required to have a test on arrival. Further details are available on Etihad Airlines Website.
If you are transiting through the UAE to a country that requires a COVID-19 PCR test on arrival, then you must obtain a negative COVID-19 PCR test before travelling.
In all circumstances, the test must be a COVID-19 PCR swab test. Other test results including antibody tests are not accepted. Further information about COVID-19 testing for travellers is available on the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority website. Children under the age of 12 and those with severe and moderate disabilities will be exempted from the test requirement. Those entering the country may also be asked to take a further COVID-19 PCR test on arrival and to complete a period of self-isolation or quarantine.
*Entry to the United Arab Emirates other than Dubai: Some foreign residents, including British Nationals, are being allowed to return to the UAE based on criteria set by the UAE authorities. Visitors have been allowed to travel by air to Abu Dhabi with effect from 24 December 2020. Travellers to Abu Dhabi from the UK must have had a negative COVID-19 PCR test within 72 hours of departure. Travellers to Abu Dhabi will also be tested on arrival.
Visitors can travel to Abu Dhabi by road but must have had a negative COVID-19 PCR test before travel. There is also a requirement for further testing if visitors and residents remain in Abu Dhabi for six four days or longer. The rules for entering and remaining in Abu Dhabi change regularly and you should check the current requirement from the Abu Dhabi Media Office and on the Emirates News Agency website.
All arrivals in Abu Dhabi must isolate for 10 days on arrival although arrivals from certain countries as listed on the Visit Abu Dhabi website will not be required to isolate.
Travellers entering Abu Dhabi who have participated in the UAE voluntary COVID19 vaccination programme or have participated in the third phase of clinical vaccination research or who have obtained a mark in the ‘Al Hosn App’ are exempt from quarantine on arrival in Abu Dhabi. All arrivals in Abu Dhabi will be required to wear a medically approved wristband for the duration of their quarantine. The wristband will be provided at Abu Dhabi airport after clearing immigration. Arrivals under the age of 18, over the age of 60, diplomats or those suffering from a chronic disease will be exempt from having to wear the wristband. Further information is available on the Etihad Airlines website including a guide for arrivals in Abu Dhabi. Further advice for international arrivals in Abu Dhabi is also available from the Abu Dhabi Media Office.
The National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority announced on 12 August 2020 that, apart from Dubai, there is no longer a requirement for residents who wish to return to the UAE to get permission to travel. Further information is available on the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority website.
*Dubai residents returning to or leaving Dubai: Dubai residents overseas have been allowed to return to Dubai from 22 June 2020 and Dubai residents within Dubai have been allowed to travel overseas from 23 June 2020. Further information about what returning residents need to do before they travel and what will happen on arrival in Dubai is available on the Government of Dubai website including information about testing on arrival and quarantine. Dubai residents must apply for a permit to return on the Dubai Government General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs website. Before they fly returning residents will also be required to complete a Health Declaration Form and a Quarantine Form. Both forms need to be printed, completed and handed over to Dubai Health Authority staff on arrival. Further information about how to book a flight for returning residents is available on the Emirates Airline website.
On their return to Dubai, returning residents will have to register their details on the COVID-19 DXB App.
*Visitors to Dubai: Visitors have been able to travel to Dubai from 7 July 2020. Further information about what visitors need to do before they travel and what will happen on arrival in Dubai is available on the Government of Dubai website including information about testing before departure, on arrival and quarantine. Before visitors fly to Dubai, they will also be required to complete a Health Declaration Form and a Quarantine Form. Both forms need to be printed, completed and handed over to Dubai Health Authority staff on arrival. Visitors to Dubai will also have to register their details on the COVID-19 DXB App.
Visitors must have international health insurance before travelling. All visitors to Dubai must adhere to all public health measures issued by the Dubai authorities including any requirements to quarantine.
*Quarantine requirements: Stringent entry restrictions remain in place upon arrival at all airports in the UAE which may include, but are not limited to, a Health Authority COVID-19 PCR test on arrival, mandatory quarantine period, usually via self-isolation at a private address if suitable, or a hotel or Government facility and follow up testing before you are able to complete quarantine. Once any quarantine period is complete you must continue to comply with all measures put in place by the UAE authorities to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Arrivals from countries that the UAE authorities consider high risk, and/or for whom the authorities assess private accommodation in the UAE to be unsuitable, are likely to be required to quarantine in a government quarantine facility.
*Cruise ships: Passenger cruises are currently not allowed to dock in the UAE as a result of measures taken to combat COVID-19. A UAE-wide notice to mariners has issued. The Cruise Line International Association (CLIA) has adopted an enhanced member health policy which all CLIA ocean member cruise lines are required to follow to address COVID-19.
If you are planning to travel on an international cruise that is due to call at any port in the UAE, contact your travel company for the latest information.
*Exit rules in response to coronavirus (COVID-19). With effect from 1 August 2020, all travellers departing from Abu Dhabi to the EU will need to have a negative COVID-19 PCR test result taken within 96 hours prior to their departure. This is also a requirement for travellers to other countries that require a negative COVID-19 PCR test before arrival. Children under the age of 12 and those with severe and moderate disabilities will be exempted from the test requirement. Transit passengers from some countries are required to conduct a COVID-19 PCR test prior to departure for Dubai. The pre-travel test is also mandatory for transit passengers if their destination country requires them to do so. Further information is available on the hereDubai Media Office website. Further information is available on the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority website. Further information about testing facilities in the UAE is available on the UAE Government Portal.
Internal Restrictions:
*Travel within the United Arab Emirates: COVID-19 cases continue to be recorded in the UAE and public health measures are in place in response to the outbreak. These can vary between each Emirates and the ease of movement between regions is affected. The local rules may change, including at short notice. You should check them carefully before you travel and whilst you are in the UAE, and ensure you comply. The UAE authorities have stated that any violation of instructions and procedures put in place to limit the spread of COVID-19 will be treated as a crime punishable by law. Since 2 June 2020, travel by land to the Emirate of Abu Dhabi has been restricted although movement within the Emirate of Abu Dhabi is allowed. The rules for entering and remaining in Abu Dhabi change regularly and you should check the current requirement from the Abu Dhabi Media Office and on the Emirates News Agency website.
*Public spaces and services: Most shops, restaurants, tourist attractions and religious establishments are open but there are restrictions and requirements in place to help contain the disease. Social distancing and the wearing of face masks is mandatory when away from your home. This also applies to visitors staying in hotels when they are not in their room. Most schools across the UAE reopened at the start of the 2020/21 academic year with a number of COVID-19 measures in place. Some have since closed following COVID-19 outbreaks. All schools in Abu Dhabi and some schools in Dubai moved to remote learning at the beginning of 2021 although some are starting to reopen with COVID-19 measures in place. Many events in the UAE been cancelled. If you are planning to attend a specific event, check with the organisers.
United Arab Emirates New requirement for all passengers arriving in Dubai from 31 January 2021
Effective 31 January 2021, all passengers arriving into Dubai from any point of origin (GCC countries included) must hold a negative PCR test certificate, for which the test must be taken no more than 72 hours prior to time of departure.
UAE nationals are exempt from the above, but will be required to take a PCR test on arrival at Dubai airport.
Passengers arriving into Dubai from certain countries will be required to take another PCR test on arrival at DXB.
Passengers transiting through Dubai must ensure that they comply with the entry requirements of their respective destination country.
COVID 19 PCR test requirements for Dubai by country
The following entry rules apply to tourists travelling to Dubai from these countries and territories:
Algeria, Armenia, Australia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Belgium, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Brazil, Brunei, Bulgaria, Canada, China, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Kazakhstan, Kirgizstan, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Maldives Islands, Mauritius, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Republic of North Macedonia, Serbia, Seychelles, Singapore, Somalia, South Korea, Spain, Sri Lanka, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, Turkey, United Kingdom, United States
Tourists must present a valid negative COVID 19 PCR test certificate for a test taken no more than 72 hours before departure.The certificate must be for a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test. Other test certificates including antibody tests and home testing kits are not accepted in Dubai.If you are taking a test before you depart, you must bring an official, printed certificate in English or Arabic to check in – SMS and digital certificates are not accepted.Passengers taking advantage of our Dubai Connect service who have booked a hotel outside the airport must present a valid negative COVID 19 PCR test certificate for a test taken no more than 96 hours before departure.
The following entry rules apply to tourists travelling to Dubai from these countries and territories:
Afghanistan, Angola, Argentina, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Chile, Cote d’lvoire, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Djibouti, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Georgia, Ghana, Greece, Guinea, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Kenya, Lebanon, Malta, Moldova, Montenegro, Morocco, Myanmar, Nepal, Nigeria, Pakistan, Philippines, Romania, Russia, Rwanda, Senegal, Slovakia, Somaliland, South Africa, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Tunisia, Turkmenistan, Uganda, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, Vietnam, Zambia, Zimbabwe
Tourists must take two COVID 19 PCR tests: one 72 hours prior to departure, and a second test upon arrival in Dubai.The certificate must be for a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test. Other test certificates including antibody tests and home testing kits are not accepted in Dubai.You must bring an official, printed certificate in English or Arabic to check in – SMS and digital certificates are not accepted.
If you are transiting in Dubai, you are not required to present a COVID 19 PCR test certificate unless it is mandated by your country of origin or final destination.
Test exemptions:
Children under the age of 12 and passengers who have a moderate or severe disability are exempt from this test. There may be specific test exemptions in your country of origin and final destination. Please check the requirements before you travel.
COVID 19 testing laboratories:
The UAE government has specified designated laboratories. You can either use the recommended laboratories in the list or any trusted and certified laboratories in your country of origin to get your COVID 19 PCR test.If you are flying from India, Pakistan, Nigeria or Bangladesh , you must get your certificate from one of the labs listed in the designated laboratories document to be accepted on the flight.
When you arrive
You may need to take another COVID 19 PCR test on arrival. If you take a test at the airport, you must remain in your hotel or residence until you receive the test result.If the test result is positive, you will be required to undergo isolation and follow the Dubai Health Authority guidelines.You must also download the COVID19 – DXB Smart App iOS AndroidWe offer free, automatic cover for your COVID 19 health and quarantine costs while you’re away from home.
Dubai Requires Negative PCR-RT Test For All Arrivals From January 31, 2021
United Arab Emirates Latest News: All air and sea points of entry between the UAE and Qatar reopened on 9 January 2021. (UK.Gov, 11.01.2021).
International Restrictions:
*Testing before arrival: COVID-19 entry requirements may change at short notice, and travellers to the UAE are strongly encouraged to check the specifics, including the time frames for undertaking COVID-19 PCR tests before departure with their airline before they travel.
Tourists and visitors travelling from or through the UK and arriving in Dubai after Saturday 16 January must have a negative COVID-19 PCR test which was taken no more than 96 hours before departure and present the certificate at check in. Dubai Residents travelling from or through the UK to Dubai have the option to either present a negative COVID-19 PCR test on departure which was taken a maximum of 96 hours before departure or to take a COVID-19 PCR test on arrival at Dubai airport. Those tested on arrival will be required to quarantine until they have the results of their COVID-19 PCR test. Further details are available on British Airways and Emirates websites. Travellers may also be tested on arrival in Dubai even if they have had a COVID-19 PCR test before departure.
If you test positive for COVID-19 on arrival in Dubai, depending on your symptoms and your accommodation plans, you may be required to self-isolate in a government facility, a hospital, your hotel or privately arranged accommodation for at least 10 days.
For the rest of the UAE, all travellers have to undertake a COVID-19 PCR test in the country they are currently in, and have proof of a negative result, before travelling to the UAE. Those travelling to Abu Dhabi from the UK and certain other countries are required to undertake a COVID-19 PCR test within 72 hours of departure and have a negative result. Travellers to Abu Dhabi are also required to have a test on arrival. Further details are available on Etihad Airlines Website .
If you are transiting through the UAE to a country that requires a COVID-19 PCR test on arrival, then you must obtain a negative COVID-19 PCR test before travelling.
In all circumstances, the test must be a COVID-19 PCR swab test. Other test results including antibody tests are not accepted.
Further information about COVID-19 testing for travellers is available on theNational Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority website . Children under the age of 12 and those with severe and moderate disabilities will be exempted from the test requirement. Those entering the country may also be asked to take a further COVID-19 PCR test on arrival and to complete a period of self-isolation or quarantine.
*Entry to the United Arab Emirates other than Dubai: Some foreign residents, including British Nationals, are being allowed to return to the UAE based on criteria set by the UAE authorities. Visitors have been allowed to travel by air to Abu Dhabi with effect from 24 December 2020. Travellers to Abu Dhabi from the UK must have had a negative COVID-19 PCR test within 72 hours of departure. Travellers to Abu Dhabi will also be tested on arrival.
Visitors can travel to Abu Dhabi by road but must have had a negative COVID-19 PCR test within 72 hours of travel. There is also a requirement for further testing if visitors and residents remain in Abu Dhabi for six days or longer. Further information is available on theEmirates News Agency website and from theAbu Dhabi Media Office . All arrivals in Abu Dhabi must isolate for 10 days on arrival although arrivals from certain countries as listed on theVisit Abu Dhabi website will not be required to isolate.
Travellers entering Abu Dhabi who have participated in the UAE voluntary COVID19 vaccination programme or have participated in the third phase of clinical vaccination research or who have obtained a mark in the ‘Al Hosn App’ are exempt from quarantine on arrival in Abu Dhabi.
All arrivals in Abu Dhabi will be required to wear a medically approved wristband for the duration of their quarantine. The wristband will be provided at Abu Dhabi airport after clearing immigration. Arrivals under the age of 18, over the age of 60, diplomats or those suffering from a chronic disease will be exempt from having to wear the wristband. Further information is available on the Etihad Airlines website including a guide for arrivals in Abu Dhabi. Further advice for international arrivals in Abu Dhabi is also available from the Abu Dhabi Media Office .
The National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority announced on 12 August 2020 that, apart from Dubai, there is no longer a requirement for residents who wish to return to the UAE to get permission to travel. Further information is available on the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority website .
*Dubai residents returning to or leaving Dubai: Dubai residents overseas have been allowed to return to Dubai from 22 June 2020 and Dubai residents within Dubai have been allowed to travel overseas from 23 June 2020. Further information about what returning residents need to do before they travel and what will happen on arrival in Dubai is available on the Government of Dubai website including information about testing on arrival and quarantine.
Dubai residents must apply for a permit to return on theDubai Government General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs website . Before they fly returning residents will also be required to complete aHealth Declaration Form and aQuarantine Form. Both forms need to be printed, completed and handed over to Dubai Health Authority staff on arrival. Further information about how to book a flight for returning residents is available on theEmirates Airline website.
On their return to Dubai, returning residents will have to register their details on the COVID-19 DXB App.
*Visitors to Dubai: Visitors have been able to travel to Dubai from 7 July 2020. Further information about what visitors need to do before they travel and what will happen on arrival in Dubai is available on theGovernment of Dubai website including information about testing before departure, on arrival and quarantine.
Before visitors fly to Dubai, they will also be required to complete aHealth Declaration Form and aQuarantine Form. Both forms need to be printed, completed and handed over to Dubai Health Authority staff on arrival. Visitors to Dubai will also have to register their details on the COVID-19 DXB App.
Visitors must have international health insurance before travelling.
All visitors to Dubai must adhere to all public health measures issued by the Dubai authorities including any requirements to quarantine.
*Quarantine requirements: Stringent entry restrictions remain in place upon arrival at all airports in the UAE which may include, but are not limited to, a Health Authority COVID-19 PCR test on arrival, mandatory quarantine period, usually via self-isolation at a private address if suitable, or a hotel or Government facility and follow up testing before you are able to complete quarantine. Once any quarantine period is complete you must continue to comply with all measures put in place by the UAE authorities to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Arrivals from countries that the UAE authorities consider high risk, and/or for whom the authorities assess private accommodation in the UAE to be unsuitable, are likely to be required to quarantine in a government quarantine facility.
*Cruise ships: Passenger cruises are currently not allowed to dock in the UAE as a result of measures taken to combat COVID-19. A UAE-wide notice to mariners has issued.
The Cruise Line International Association (CLIA) has adopted anenhanced member health policy which all CLIA ocean member cruise lines are required to follow to address COVID-19.
If you are planning to travel on an international cruise that is due to call at any port in the UAE, contact your travel company for the latest information.
*Exit rules in response to coronavirus (COVID-19): With effect from 1 August 2020, all travellers departing from Abu Dhabi to the EU will need to have a negative COVID-19 PCR test result taken within 96 hours prior to their departure. This is also a requirement for travellers to other countries that require a negative COVID-19 PCR test before arrival. Children under the age of 12 and those with severe and moderate disabilities will be exempted from the test requirement.
On 2 October 2020 the Dubai Media Office announced that Emiratis, residents and tourists travelling overseas from Dubai are only required to undergo a COVID-19 PCR test prior to departure if their destination country requires a pre-travel negative test certificate.
Transit passengers from some countries are required to conduct a COVID-19 PCR test prior to departure for Dubai. The pre-travel test is also mandatory for transit passengers if their destination country requires them to do so. Further information is available on theDubai Media Office website. Further information is available on theNational Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority website . Further information about testing facilities in the UAE is available on theUAE Government Portal .
Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in the United Arab Emirates: COVID-19 cases continue to be recorded in the UAE and public health measures are in place in response to the outbreak. These can vary between each Emirates and the ease of movement between regions is affected. The local rules may change, including at short notice. You should check them carefully before you travel and whilst you are in the UAE, and ensure you comply. The UAE authorities have stated that any violation of instructions and procedures put in place to limit the spread of COVID-19 will be treated as a crime punishable by law. Since 2 June 2020, travel to the Emirate of Abu Dhabi has been restricted although movement within the Emirate of Abu Dhabi is allowed. You will need to have received a negative COVID-19 PCR test result carried out within 72 hours prior to entering the Emirate of Abu Dhabi by land from elsewhere in the country. There is also a requirement for further testing if you remain in Abu Dhabi for six days or longer. Further information is available on theEmirates News Agency website and from theAbu Dhabi Media Office.
*Public spaces and services: Most shops, restaurants, tourist attractions and religious establishments are open but there are restrictions and requirements in place to help contain the disease. Social distancing and the wearing of face masks is mandatory when away from your home. This also applies to visitors staying in hotels when they are not in their room. Most schools across the UAE reopened at the start of the 2020/21 academic year with a number of COVID-19 measures in place. Some have since closed following COVID-19 outbreaks. All schools in Abu Dhabi and some schools in Dubai moved to remote learning at the beginning of 2021 although some are starting to reopen with COVID-19 measures in place. Many events in the UAE been cancelled. If you are planning to attend a specific event, check with the organisers.
United Arab Emirates Latest News: All air and sea points of entry between the UAE and Qatar reopened on 9 January 2021. (UK.Gov, 11.01.2021).
International Restrictions:
*Testing before arrival: COVID-19 entry requirements may change at short notice, and travellers to the UAE are strongly encouraged to check the specifics, including the time frames for undertaking COVID-19 PCR tests before departure with their airline before they travel. Further details are available on Emirates and Etihad websites including information about what these airlines accept as proof of a negative test. Tourists and visitors travelling from or through the UK and arriving in Dubai after 8am on Saturday 16 January must have a negative COVID-19 PCR test which was taken no more than 96 hours before departure and present the certificate at check in. Dubai Residents travelling from or through the UK to Dubai still have the option to either present a negative COVID-19 PCR test on departure which was taken a maximum of 96 hours before departure or to take a COVID-19 PCR test on arrival at Dubai airport. Those tested on arrival will be required to quarantine until they have the results of their COVID-19 PCR test. Further details are available on Emirates websites. Travellers may also be tested on arrival in Dubai even if they have had a COVID-19 PCR test before departure. If you test positive for COVID-19 on arrival in Dubai, depending on your symptoms and your accommodation plans, you may be required to self-isolate in a government led facility, a hospital, your hotel or privately arranged accommodation for at least 10 days. For the rest of the UAE, all travellers have to undertake a COVID-19 PCR test in the country they are currently in, and have proof of a negative result, before travelling to the UAE. Those travelling to Abu Dhabi from the UK and certain other countries are required to undertake a COVID-19 PCR test within 72 hours of departure and have a negative result. Travellers to Abu Dhabi are also required to have a test on arrival. Further details are available on Etihad Airlines Website. If you are transiting through the UAE to a country that requires a COVID-19 PCR test on arrival, then you must obtain a negative COVID-19 PCR test before travelling. In all circumstances, the test must be a COVID-19 PCR swab test. Other test results including antibody tests are not accepted. Further information about COVID-19 testing for travellers is available on the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority website. Children under the age of 12 and those with severe and moderate disabilities will be exempted from the test requirement. Those entering the country may also be asked to take a further COVID-19 PCR test on arrival and to complete a period of self-isolation or quarantine.
*Entry to the UAE other than Dubai: Some foreign residents, including British Nationals, are being allowed to return to the UAE based on criteria set by the UAE authorities. Visitors have been allowed to travel by air to Abu Dhabi with effect from 24 December 2020. Travellers to Abu Dhabi from the UK must have had a negative COVID-19 PCR test within 72 hours of departure. Travellers to Abu Dhabi will also be tested on arrival. Visitors can travel to Abu Dhabi by road but must have had a negative COVID-19 PCR test within 72 hours of travel. There is also a requirement for further testing if visitors and residents remain in Abu Dhabi for six days or longer. Further information is available on the Emirates News Agency website and from the Abu Dhabi Media Office. All arrivals in Abu Dhabi must isolate for 10 days on arrival although arrivals from certain countries as listed on the Visit Abu Dhabi website will not be required to isolate. All arrivals in Abu Dhabi will be required to wear a medically approved wristband for the duration of their quarantine. The wristband will be provided at Abu Dhabi airport after clearing immigration. Arrivals under the age of 18, over the age of 60, diplomats or those suffering from a chronic disease will be exempt from having to wear the wristband. Further information is available on the Etihad Airlines website including a guide for arrivals in Abu Dhabi. Further advice for international arrivals in Abu Dhabi is also available from the Abu Dhabi Media Office. The National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority announced on 12 August 2020 that, apart from Dubai, there is no longer a requirement for residents who wish to return to the UAE to get permission to travel. Further information is available on the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority website.
*Dubai residents returning to or leaving Dubai: Dubai residents overseas have been allowed to return to Dubai from 22 June 2020 and Dubai residents within Dubai have been allowed to travel overseas from 23 June 2020. Further information about what returning residents need to do before they travel and what will happen on arrival in Dubai is available on the Government of Dubai website including information about testing on arrival and quarantine.
Dubai residents must apply for a permit to return on the Dubai Government General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs website. Before they fly returning residents will also be required to complete a Health Declaration Form and a Quarantine Form . Both forms need to be printed, completed and handed over to Dubai Health Authority staff on arrival. Further information about how to book a flight for returning residents is available on the Emirates Airline website.
On their return to Dubai, returning residents will have register their details on the COVID-19 DXB App.
*Visitors to Dubai: Visitors have been able to travel to Dubai from 7 July 2020. Further information about what visitors need to do before they travel and what will happen on arrival in Dubai is available on the Government of Dubai website including information about testing before departure, on arrival and quarantine. Before visitors fly to Dubai, they will also be required to complete a Health Declaration Form and a Quarantine Form. Both forms need to be printed, completed and handed over to Dubai Health Authority staff on arrival. Visitors to Dubai will also have to register their details on the COVID-19 DXB App. Visitors must have international health insurance before travelling. All visitors to Dubai must adhere to all public health measures issued by the Dubai authorities including any requirements to quarantine.
*Quarantine requirements: Stringent entry restrictions remain in place upon arrival at all airports in the UAE which may include, but are not limited to, a Health Authority COVID-19 PCR test on arrival, mandatory quarantine period, usually via self-isolation at a private address if suitable, or a hotel or Government facility and follow up testing before you are able to complete quarantine. Once any quarantine period is complete you must continue to comply with all measures put in place by the UAE authorities to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Arrivals from countries that the UAE authorities consider high risk, and/or for whom the authorities assess private accommodation in the UAE to be unsuitable, are likely to be required to quarantine in a government quarantine facility.
*Cruise ships: Passenger cruises are currently not allowed to dock in the UAE as a result of measures taken to combat COVID-19. A UAE-wide notice to mariners has issued. The Cruise Line International Association (CLIA) has adopted an enhanced member health policy which all CLIA ocean member cruise lines are required to follow to address COVID-19. If you are planning to travel on an international cruise that is due to call at any port in the UAE, contact your travel company for the latest information.
*Exit rules in response to coronavirus (COVID-19): With effect from 1 August 2020, all travellers departing from Abu Dhabi to the EU and UK will need to have a negative COVID-19 PCR test result taken within 96 hours prior to their departure. This is also a requirement for travellers to other countries that require a negative COVID-19 PCR test before arrival. Children under the age of 12 and those with severe and moderate disabilities will be exempted from the test requirement. On 2 October 2020 the Dubai Media Office announced that Emiratis, residents and tourists travelling overseas from Dubai are only required to undergo a COVID-19 PCR test prior to departure if their destination country requires a pre-travel negative test certificate. It is not a requirement for travellers to the UK to undergo a COVID-19 PCR test prior to arrival in the UK. Transit passengers from some countries are required to conduct a COVID-19 PCR test prior to departure for Dubai. The pre-travel test is also mandatory for transit passengers if their destination country requires them to do so. Further information is available on the Dubai Media Office website Further information is available on the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority website. Further information about testing facilities in the UAE is available on the UAE Government Portal.
Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in the United Arab Emirates: COVID-19 cases continue to be recorded in the UAE and public health measures are in place in response to the outbreak. These can vary between each Emirates and the ease of movement between regions is affected. The local rules may change, including at short notice. You should check them carefully before you travel and whilst you are in the UAE, and ensure you comply. The UAE authorities have stated that any violation of instructions and procedures put in place to limit the spread of COVID-19 will be treated as a crime punishable by law. Since 2 June 2020, travel to the Emirate of Abu Dhabi has been restricted although movement within the Emirate of Abu Dhabi is allowed. You will need to have received a negative COVID-19 PCR test result carried out within 72 hours prior to entering the Emirate of Abu Dhabi by land from elsewhere in the country. There is also a requirement for further testing if you remain in Abu Dhabi for six days or longer. Further information is available on the Emirates News Agency website and from theAbu Dhabi Media Office.
*Public spaces and services: Most shops, restaurants, tourist attractions and religious establishments are open but there are restrictions and requirements in place to help contain the disease. Social distancing and the wearing of face masks is mandatory when away from your home. This also applies to visitors staying in hotels when they are not in their room. Most schools across the UAE reopened at the start of the 2020/21 academic year with a number of COVID-19 measures in place. Some have since closed following COVID-19 outbreaks. All schools in Abu Dhabi and some schools in Dubai moved to remote learning at the beginning of 2021. Many events in the UAE been cancelled. If you are planning to attend a specific event, check with the organisers.
United Arab Emirates Latest News: All air and sea points of entry between the UAE and Qatar reopened on 9 January 2021. (UK.Gov, 11.01.2021).
International Restrictions:
*Testing before arrival: COVID-19 entry requirements may change at short notice, and travellers to the UAE are strongly encouraged to check the specifics, including the time frames for undertaking COVID-19 PCR tests before departure with their airline before they travel. Further details are available on Emirates and Etihad websites including information about what these airlines accept as proof of a negative test.
Travellers from the UK to Dubai have the option to either present a negative COVID-19 PCR test on departure which was taken a maximum of 96 hours before departure or to take a COVID-19 PCR test on arrival at Dubai airport. Those tested on arrival will be required to quarantine until they have the results of their COVID-19 PCR test. Travellers may also be tested on arrival in Dubai even if they have had a COVID-19 PCR test before departure.
If you test positive for COVID-19 on arrival in Dubai, depending on your symptoms and your accommodation plans, you may be required to self-isolate in a government led facility, a hospital, your hotel or privately arranged accommodation for at least 10 days.
For the rest of the UAE, all travellers have to undertake a COVID-19 PCR test in the country they are currently in, and have proof of a negative result, before travelling to the UAE. Those travelling to Abu Dhabi from the UK and certain other countries are required to undertake a COVID-19 PCR test within 72 hours of departure and have a negative result. Travellers to Abu Dhabi are also required to have a test on arrival. Further details are available on Etihad Airlines Website.
If you are transiting through the UAE to a country that requires a COVID-19 PCR test on arrival, then you must obtain a negative COVID-19 PCR test before travelling. In all circumstances, the test must be a COVID-19 PCR swab test. Other test results including antibody tests are not accepted.
Further information is available on the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority website. Children under the age of 12 and those with severe and moderate disabilities will be exempted from the test requirement. Those entering the country may also be asked to take a further COVID-19 PCR test on arrival and to complete a period of self-isolation or quarantine.
*Entry to the United Arab Emirates other than Dubai: Some foreign residents, including British Nationals, are being allowed to return to the UAE based on criteria set by the UAE authorities. Visitors are allowed to travel by air to Abu Dhabi with effect from 24 December. Visitors can travel to Abu Dhabi by road but must have had a COVID-19 PCR test within 72 hours of travel. There is also a requirement for further testing if visitors and residents remain in Abu Dhabi for six days or longer Further information is available on the Emirates News Agency website and from the Abu Dhabi Media Office.
All arrivals in Abu Dhabi must isolate for 10 days on arrival although arrivals from certain countries as listed on the Visit Abu Dhabi website will not be required to isolate.
All arrivals will be required to wear a medically approved wristband for the duration of their quarantine. The wristband will be provided at Abu Dhabi airport after clearing immigration. Arrivals under the age of 18, over the age of 60, diplomats or those suffering from a chronic disease will be exempt from having to wear the wristband. Further information is available on the Etihad Airlines website including a guide for arrivals in Abu Dhabi. Further advice for international arrivals in Abu Dhabi is also available from the Abu Dhabi Media Office. The National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority announced on 12 August that, apart from Dubai, there is no longer a requirement for residents who wish to return to the UAE to get permission to travel. Further information is available on the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority website.
*Dubai residents returning to or leaving Dubai: The government of Dubai announced new procedures on 21 June for returning residents. Dubai residents overseas can return to Dubai from 22 June and Dubai residents within Dubai can travel overseas from 23 June. Further information about what returning residents need to do before they travel and what will happen on arrival in Dubai is available on the Government of Dubai website including information about testing on arrival and quarantine. Dubai residents must apply for a permit to return on the Dubai Government General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs website. Before they fly returning residents will also be required to complete a Health Declaration Form and a Quarantine Form. Both forms need to be printed, completed and handed over to Dubai Health Authority staff on arrival. Further information about how to book a flight for returning residents is available on the Emirates Airline website.
On their return to Dubai, returning residents will have register their details on the COVID-19 DXB App.
*Visitors to Dubai: New procedures for visitors to Dubai were announced by the Government of Dubai on 21 June. Visitors are able to travel to Dubai from 7 July. Further information about what visitors need to do before they travel and what will happen on arrival in Dubai is available on the Government of Dubai website including information about testing on arrival and quarantine. Before visitors fly to Dubai, they will also be required to complete a Health Declaration Form and a Quarantine Form. Both forms need to be printed, completed and handed over to Dubai Health Authority staff on arrival. Visitors to Dubai will also have to register their details on the COVID-19 DXB App. Visitors must have international health insurance before travelling. All visitors to Dubai must adhere to all public health measures issued by the Dubai authorities including any requirements to quarantine.
*Quarantine requirements: Stringent entry restrictions remain in place upon arrival at all airports in the UAE which may include, but are not limited to, a Health Authority COVID-19 PCR test on arrival, mandatory quarantine period, usually via self-isolation at a private address if suitable, or a hotel or Government facility, for at least 10 days, and follow up testing before you are able to complete quarantine. Once any quarantine period is complete you must continue to comply with all measures put in place by the UAE authorities to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Arrivals in Abu Dhabi from countries that the UAE authorities consider high risk, and/or for whom the authorities assess private accommodation in the UAE to be unsuitable, are likely to be required to quarantine in a government quarantine facility for at least 10 days.
*Cruise ships: Passenger cruises are currently not allowed to dock in the UAE as a result of measures taken to combat COVID-19. A UAE-wide notice to mariners has issued. Vessels already in port have been allowed to disembark passengers at the end of cruises. The Cruise Line International Association (CLIA) has adopted an enhanced member health policy which all CLIA ocean member cruise lines are required to follow to address COVID-19. If you are planning to travel on an international cruise that is due to call at any port in the UAE, contact your travel company for the latest information.
*Exit rules in response to coronavirus (COVID-19): With effect from 1 August 2020, all travellers departing from the Abu Dhabi to the EU and UK will need to have a negative COVID-19 PCR test result within 96 hours prior to their departure. This is also a requirement for travellers to other countries that require a negative COVID-19 PCR test before arrival. Children under the age of 12 and those with severe and moderate disabilities will be exempted from the test requirement. On 2 October the Dubai Media Office announced that Emiratis, residents and tourists travelling overseas from Dubai are only required to undergo a COVID-19 PCR test prior to departure if their destination country requires a pre-travel negative test certificate. It is not a requirement for travellers to the UK to undergo a COVID-19 PCR test prior to arrival in the UK. Transit passengers from some countries are required to conduct a COVID-19 PCR test prior to departure for Dubai. The pre-travel test is also mandatory for transit passengers if their destination country requires them to do so. Further information is available on the Dubai Media Office website. Further information is available on the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority website. Further information about testing facilities in the UAE is available on the UAE Government Portal.
Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in the United Arab Emirates: COVID-19 cases continue to be recorded in the UAE and public health measures are in place in response to the outbreak. These can vary between each Emirates and the ease of movement between regions is affected. The local rules may change, including at short notice. You should check them carefully before you travel and whilst you are in the UAE, and ensure you comply. The UAE authorities have stated that any violation of instructions and procedures put in place to limit the spread of COVID-19 will be treated as a crime punishable by law. Since 2 June 2020, travel to the Emirate of Abu Dhabi has been restricted although movement within the Emirate of Abu Dhabi is allowed. You will need to have received a negative COVID-19 PCR test result carried out within 72 hours prior to entering the Emirate of Abu Dhabi by land from elsewhere in the country. There is also a requirement for further testing if you remain in Abu Dhabi for six days or longer. Further information is available on the Emirates News Agency website and from theAbu Dhabi Media Office.
*Public spaces and services: Most shops, restaurants, tourist attractions and religious establishments are open but there are restrictions and requirements in place to help contain the disease. Social distancing and the wearing of face masks is mandatory when away from your home. This also applies to visitors staying in hotels when they are not in their room. Most schools across the UAE reopened at the start of the 2020/21 academic year with a number of COVID-19 measures in place. Some have since closed following COVID-19 outbreaks. All schools in Abu Dhabi and some schools in Dubai moved to remote learning at the beginning of 2021. Many events in the UAE been cancelled. If you are planning to attend a specific event, check with the organisers.
United Arab Emirates Latest News: Flights between Dubai and Istanbul to resume from 17 December (Bloomberg, 13.12.2020) UAE temporarily suspends issuance of visas to nationals of Turkey, Iran, Yemen, Syria, Iraq, Somalia, Libya, Kenya, Afghanistan, Pakistan due of COVID-19 (OutlookIndia, 18.11.2020)
International Restrictions:
*Testing before arrival: COVID-19 entry requirements may change at short notice, and travellers to the UAE are strongly encouraged to check the specifics, including the time frames for undertaking COVID-19 PCR tests before departure with their airline before they travel. Further details are available on Emirates and Etihad websites including information about what these airlines accept as proof of a negative test.
Travellers from the UK to Dubai have the option to either present a negative COVID-19 PCR test on departure which was taken a maximum of 96 hours before departure or to take a COVID-19 PCR test on arrival at Dubai airport. Those tested on arrival will be required to quarantine until they have the results of their COVID-19 PCR test. Travellers may also be tested on arrival in Dubai even if they have had a COVID-19 PCR test before departure.
If you test positive for COVID-19 on arrival in Dubai, depending on your symptoms and your accommodation plans, you may be required to self-isolate in a government led facility, a hospital, your hotel or privately arranged accommodation for at least 10 days.
For the rest of the UAE, all travellers have to undertake a COVID-19 PCR test in the country they are currently in, and have proof of a negative result, before travelling to the UAE. Those travelling to Abu Dhabi from the UK and certain other countries are required to undertake a COVID-19 PCR test within 72 hours of departure and have a negative result. Travellers to Abu Dhabi are also required to have a test on arrival. Further details are available on Etihad Airlines Website.
If you are transiting through the UAE to a country that requires a COVID-19 PCR test on arrival, then you must obtain a negative COVID-19 PCR test before travelling. In all circumstances, the test must be a COVID-19 PCR swab test. Other test results including antibody tests are not accepted.
Further information is available on the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority website. Children under the age of 12 and those with severe and moderate disabilities will be exempted from the test requirement. Those entering the country may also be asked to take a further COVID-19 PCR test on arrival and to complete a period of self-isolation or quarantine.
*Entry to the United Arab Emirates other than Dubai: Some foreign residents, including British Nationals, are being allowed to return to the UAE based on criteria set by the UAE authorities. Visitors are allowed to travel by air to Abu Dhabi with effect from 24 December. Visitors can travel to Abu Dhabi by road but must have had a COVID-19 PCR test within 72 hours of travel. There is also a requirement for further testing if visitors and residents remain in Abu Dhabi for six days or longer Further information is available on the Emirates News Agency website and from the Abu Dhabi Media Office.
All arrivals in Abu Dhabi must isolate for 10 days on arrival although arrivals from certain countries as listed on the Visit Abu Dhabi website will not be required to isolate.
All arrivals will be required to wear a medically approved wristband for the duration of their quarantine. The wristband will be provided at Abu Dhabi airport after clearing immigration. Arrivals under the age of 18, over the age of 60, diplomats or those suffering from a chronic disease will be exempt from having to wear the wristband. Further information is available on the Etihad Airlines website including a guide for arrivals in Abu Dhabi. Further advice for international arrivals in Abu Dhabi is also available from the Abu Dhabi Media Office. The National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority announced on 12 August that, apart from Dubai, there is no longer a requirement for residents who wish to return to the UAE to get permission to travel. Further information is available on the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority website.
*Dubai residents returning to or leaving Dubai: The government of Dubai announced new procedures on 21 June for returning residents. Dubai residents overseas can return to Dubai from 22 June and Dubai residents within Dubai can travel overseas from 23 June. Further information about what returning residents need to do before they travel and what will happen on arrival in Dubai is available on the Government of Dubai website including information about testing on arrival and quarantine. Dubai residents must apply for a permit to return on the Dubai Government General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs website. Before they fly returning residents will also be required to complete a Health Declaration Form and a Quarantine Form. Both forms need to be printed, completed and handed over to Dubai Health Authority staff on arrival. Further information about how to book a flight for returning residents is available on the Emirates Airline website.
On their return to Dubai, returning residents will have register their details on the COVID-19 DXB App.
*Visitors to Dubai: New procedures for visitors to Dubai were announced by the Government of Dubai on 21 June. Visitors are able to travel to Dubai from 7 July. Further information about what visitors need to do before they travel and what will happen on arrival in Dubai is available on the Government of Dubai website including information about testing on arrival and quarantine. Before visitors fly to Dubai, they will also be required to complete a Health Declaration Form and a Quarantine Form. Both forms need to be printed, completed and handed over to Dubai Health Authority staff on arrival. Visitors to Dubai will also have to register their details on the COVID-19 DXB App. Visitors must have international health insurance before travelling. All visitors to Dubai must adhere to all public health measures issued by the Dubai authorities including any requirements to quarantine.
*Quarantine requirements: Stringent entry restrictions remain in place upon arrival at all airports in the UAE which may include, but are not limited to, a Health Authority COVID-19 PCR test on arrival, mandatory quarantine period, usually via self-isolation at a private address if suitable, or a hotel or Government facility, for at least 10 days, and follow up testing before you are able to complete quarantine. Once any quarantine period is complete you must continue to comply with all measures put in place by the UAE authorities to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Arrivals in Abu Dhabi from countries that the UAE authorities consider high risk, and/or for whom the authorities assess private accommodation in the UAE to be unsuitable, are likely to be required to quarantine in a government quarantine facility for at least 10 days.
*Cruise ships: Passenger cruises are currently not allowed to dock in the UAE as a result of measures taken to combat COVID-19. A UAE-wide notice to mariners has issued. Vessels already in port have been allowed to disembark passengers at the end of cruises. The Cruise Line International Association (CLIA) has adopted an enhanced member health policy which all CLIA ocean member cruise lines are required to follow to address COVID-19. If you are planning to travel on an international cruise that is due to call at any port in the UAE, contact your travel company for the latest information.
*Exit rules in response to coronavirus (COVID-19): With effect from 1 August 2020, all travellers departing from the Abu Dhabi to the EU and UK will need to have a negative COVID-19 PCR test result within 96 hours prior to their departure. This is also a requirement for travellers to other countries that require a negative COVID-19 PCR test before arrival. Children under the age of 12 and those with severe and moderate disabilities will be exempted from the test requirement. On 2 October the Dubai Media Office announced that Emiratis, residents and tourists travelling overseas from Dubai are only required to undergo a COVID-19 PCR test prior to departure if their destination country requires a pre-travel negative test certificate. It is not a requirement for travellers to the UK to undergo a COVID-19 PCR test prior to arrival in the UK. Transit passengers from some countries are required to conduct a COVID-19 PCR test prior to departure for Dubai. The pre-travel test is also mandatory for transit passengers if their destination country requires them to do so. Further information is available on the Dubai Media Office website. Further information is available on the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority website. Further information about testing facilities in the UAE is available on the UAE Government Portal.
Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in the United Arab Emirates: COVID-19 cases continue to be recorded in the UAE and public health measures are in place in response to the outbreak. These can vary between each Emirates and the ease of movement between regions is affected. The local rules may change, including at short notice. You should check them carefully before you travel and while you are here, and ensure you comply. You should comply with any additional measures put in place by the local authorities. The UAE authorities have stated that any violation of instructions and procedures put in place to limit the spread of COVID-19 will be treated as a crime punishable by law. Since 2 June, travel to the Emirate of Abu Dhabi has been restricted although movement within the Emirate of Abu Dhabi is allowed. You will need to have received a negative COVID-19 PCR test result carried out within 72 hours prior to entering the Emirate of Abu Dhabi by land from elsewhere in the country. There is also a requirement for further testing if you remain in Abu Dhabi for six days or longer. Further information is available on the Emirates News Agency website and from the Abu Dhabi Media Office.
*Public spaces and services: While most shops, restaurants and supermarkets, and some tourist, cultural and leisure attractions and religious establishments are open, there are restrictions and requirements in place to help contain the disease. Social distancing and the wearing of face masks is mandatory when away from your home. This also applies to visitors staying in hotels when they are not in their room. Most schools across the UAE have reopened at the start of this academic year with a number of COVID-19 measures in place. Some have since closed following COVID-19 outbreaks. Many events have been cancelled. If you are planning to attend a specific event in the UAE, check with the organisers.
United Arab Emirates Latest News: Flights between Dubai and Istanbul to resume from 17 December (Bloomberg, 13.12.2020) UAE temporarily suspends issuance of visas to nationals of Turkey, Iran, Yemen, Syria, Iraq, Somalia, Libya, Kenya, Afghanistan, Pakistan due of COVID-19 (OutlookIndia, 18.11.2020)
International Restrictions:
*Testing before arrival: COVID-19 entry requirements may change at short notice, and travellers to the UAE are strongly encouraged to check the specifics, including the time frames for undertaking COVID-19 PCR tests before departure with their airline before they travel. Further details are available on Emirates and Etihad websites including information about what these airlines accept as proof of a negative test. Individuals travelling from the UK to Dubai now have the option to undertake a COVID-19 PCR test on arrival at Dubai airport. If you test positive for COVID-19 on arrival in Dubai, depending on your symptoms and your accommodation plans, you may be required to self-isolate in a government led facility, a hospital, your hotel or privately arranged accommodation. For the rest of the the UAE, authorities have stated that, citizens, returning residents and tourists have to undertake a COVID-19 PCR test in the country they are currently in, and have proof of a negative result, before travelling to the UAE. Those travelling to Abu Dhabi from the UK and certain other countries are required to undertake a COVID-19 PCR test within 72 hours of departure and have a negative result. Further details are available on Etihad Airlines Website.
If you are transiting through the UAE to a country that requires a COVID-19 PCR test on arrival, then you must obtain a negative COVID-19 PCR test before travelling. In all circumstances, the test must be a COVID-19 PCR swab test. Other test results including antibody tests are not accepted.
Further information is available on the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority website. Children under the age of 12 and those with severe and moderate disabilities will be exempted from the test requirement. Those entering the country may also be asked to take a further COVID-19 PCR test on arrival and to complete a period of self-isolation or quarantine.
*Entry to the United Arab Emirates other than Dubai: Some foreign residents, including British Nationals, are being allowed to return to the UAE based on criteria set by the UAE authorities. Visitors are allowed to travel by air to Abu Dhabi with effect from 24 December. Visitors can travel to Abu Dhabi by road but must have had a COVID-19 PCR test within 72 hours of travel. There is also a requirement for further testing if visitors and residents remain in Abu Dhabi for six days or longer Further information is available on the Emirates News Agency website and from the Abu Dhabi Media Office. All arrivals in Abu Dhabi must isolate for 10 days on arrival although arrivals from certain countries as listed on the Visit Abu Dhabi website will not be required to isolate. All arrivals will be required to wear a medically approved wristband for the duration of their quarantine. The wristband will be provided at Abu Dhabi airport after clearing immigration. Arrivals under the age of 18, over the age of 60, diplomats or those suffering from a chronic disease will be exempt from having to wear the wristband. Further information is available on the Etihad Airlines website including a guide for arrivals in Abu Dhabi. Further advice for international arrivals in Abu Dhabi is also available from the Abu Dhabi Media Office. The National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority announced on 12 August that, apart from Dubai, there is no longer a requirement for residents who wish to return to the UAE to get permission to travel. Further information is available on the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority website.
*Dubai residents returning to or leaving Dubai: The government of Dubai announced new procedures on 21 June for returning residents. Dubai residents overseas can return to Dubai from 22 June and Dubai residents within Dubai can travel overseas from 23 June. Further information about what returning residents need to do before they travel and what will happen on arrival in Dubai is available on the Government of Dubai website including information about testing on arrival and quarantine. Dubai residents must apply for a permit to return on the Dubai Government General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs website. Before they fly returning residents will also be required to complete a Health Declaration Form and a Quarantine Form. Both forms need to be printed, completed and handed over to Dubai Health Authority staff on arrival. Further information about how to book a flight for returning residents is available on the Emirates Airline website.
On their return to Dubai, returning residents will have register their details on the COVID-19 DXB App.
*Visitors to Dubai: New procedures for visitors to Dubai were announced by the Government of Dubai on 21 June. Visitors are able to travel to Dubai from 7 July. Further information about what visitors need to do before they travel and what will happen on arrival in Dubai is available on the Government of Dubai website including information about testing on arrival and quarantine. Before visitors fly to Dubai, they will also be required to complete a Health Declaration Form and a Quarantine Form. Both forms need to be printed, completed and handed over to Dubai Health Authority staff on arrival. Visitors to Dubai will also have to register their details on the COVID-19 DXB App. Visitors must have international health insurance before travelling. All visitors to Dubai must adhere to all public health measures issued by the Dubai authorities including any requirements to quarantine.
*Quarantine requirements: Stringent entry restrictions remain in place upon arrival at all airports in the UAE which may include, but are not limited to, a Health Authority COVID-19 PCR test on arrival, mandatory quarantine period, usually via self-isolation at a private address if suitable, or a hotel or Government facility, for at least 10 days, and follow up testing before you are able to complete quarantine. Once any quarantine period is complete you must continue to comply with all measures put in place by the UAE authorities to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Arrivals in Abu Dhabi from countries that the UAE authorities consider high risk, and/or for whom the authorities assess private accommodation in the UAE to be unsuitable, are likely to be required to quarantine in a government quarantine facility for at least 10 days.
*Cruise ships: Passenger cruises are currently not allowed to dock in the UAE as a result of measures taken to combat COVID-19. A UAE-wide notice to mariners has issued. Vessels already in port have been allowed to disembark passengers at the end of cruises. The Cruise Line International Association (CLIA) has adopted an enhanced member health policy which all CLIA ocean member cruise lines are required to follow to address COVID-19. If you are planning to travel on an international cruise that is due to call at any port in the UAE, contact your travel company for the latest information.
*Exit rules in response to coronavirus (COVID-19): With effect from 1 August 2020, all travellers departing from the Abu Dhabi to the EU and UK will need to have a negative COVID-19 PCR test result within 96 hours prior to their departure. This is also a requirement for travellers to other countries that require a negative COVID-19 PCR test before arrival. Children under the age of 12 and those with severe and moderate disabilities will be exempted from the test requirement. On 2 October the Dubai Media Office announced that Emiratis, residents and tourists travelling overseas from Dubai are only required to undergo a COVID-19 PCR test prior to departure if their destination country requires a pre-travel negative test certificate. It is not a requirement for travellers to the UK to undergo a COVID-19 PCR test prior to arrival in the UK. Transit passengers from some countries are required to conduct a COVID-19 PCR test prior to departure for Dubai. The pre-travel test is also mandatory for transit passengers if their destination country requires them to do so. Further information is available on the Dubai Media Office website. Further information is available on the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority website. Further information about testing facilities in the UAE is available on the UAE Government Portal.
Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in the United Arab Emirates: COVID-19 cases continue to be recorded in the UAE and public health measures are in place in response to the outbreak. These can vary between each Emirates and the ease of movement between regions is affected. The local rules may change, including at short notice. You should check them carefully before you travel and while you are here, and ensure you comply. You should comply with any additional measures put in place by the local authorities. The UAE authorities have stated that any violation of instructions and procedures put in place to limit the spread of COVID-19 will be treated as a crime punishable by law. Since 2 June, travel to the Emirate of Abu Dhabi has been restricted although movement within the Emirate of Abu Dhabi is allowed. You will need to have received a negative COVID-19 PCR test result carried out within 72 hours prior to entering the Emirate of Abu Dhabi by land from elsewhere in the country. There is also a requirement for further testing if you remain in Abu Dhabi for six days or longer. Further information is available on the Emirates News Agency website and from the Abu Dhabi Media Office.
*Public spaces and services: While most shops, restaurants and supermarkets, and some tourist, cultural and leisure attractions and religious establishments are open, there are restrictions and requirements in place to help contain the disease. Social distancing and the wearing of face masks is mandatory when away from your home. This also applies to visitors staying in hotels when they are not in their room. Most schools across the UAE have reopened at the start of this academic year with a number of COVID-19 measures in place. Some have since closed following COVID-19 outbreaks. Many events have been cancelled. If you are planning to attend a specific event in the UAE, check with the organisers.
United Arab Emirates Latest News: Flights between Dubai and Istanbul to resume from 17 December (Bloomberg, 13.12.2020) UAE temporarily suspends issuance of visas to nationals of Turkey, Iran, Yemen, Syria, Iraq, Somalia, Libya, Kenya, Afghanistan, Pakistan due of COVID-19 (OutlookIndia, 18.11.2020)
International Restrictions:
*Testing before arrival: COVID-19 entry requirements may change at short notice, and travellers to the UAE are strongly encouraged to check the specifics, including the time frames for undertaking COVID-19 PCR tests before departure with their airline before they travel. Further details are available on British Airways , Emirates and Etihad websites including information about what these airlines accept as proof of a negative test.
Individuals travelling to Dubai now have the option to undertake a COVID-19 PCR test on arrival at Dubai airport. If you test positive for COVID-19 on arrival in Dubai, depending on your symptoms and your accommodation plans, you may be required to self-isolate in a government led facility, a hospital, your hotel or privately arranged accommodation.
For the rest of the the UAE, authorities have stated that, citizens, returning residents and tourists have to undertake a COVID-19 PCR test in the country they are currently in, and have proof of a negative result, before travelling to the UAE. Those travelling to Abu Dhabi from the UK and certain other countries are required to undertake a COVID-19 PCR test within 72 hours of departure and have a negative result. Further details are available on Etihad Airlines website.
If you are transiting through the UAE to a country that requires a PCR test on arrival, then you must obtain a negative PCR test before travelling. In all circumstances, the test must be a PCR swab test. Other test results including antibody tests are not accepted. Further information is available on the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority website. Children under the age of 12 and those with severe and moderate disabilities will be exempted from the test requirement. Those entering the country may also be asked to take a further COVID-19 PCR test on arrival and to complete a period of self-isolation or quarantine.
*Entry to the United Arab Emirates other than Dubai: Some foreign residents are being allowed to return to the UAE based on criteria set by the UAE authorities. Visit and tourist visas are not currently being issued by the Abu Dhabi authorities at Abu Dhabi airport. Visitors can travel to Abu Dhabi by road but must have had a COVID-19 PCR test within 48 hours. All arrivals in Abu Dhabi must isolate for 14 days on arrival and will be required to wear a medically approved wristband for the duration of their quarantine. The wristband will be provided at Abu Dhabi airport after clearing immigration. Arrivals under the age of 18, over the age of 60, diplomats or those suffering from a chronic disease will be exempt from having to wear the wristband. Further information is available on the Etihad Airlines website including a Abu Dhabi Media Office and on the UAE Government Portal. The National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority announced on 12 August that, apart from Dubai, there is no longer a requirement for residents who wish to return to the UAE to get permission to travel. Further information is available on the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority website.
*Dubai residents returning to or leaving Dubai: The government of Dubai announced new procedures on 21 June for returning residents. Dubai residents overseas will be able to return to the Dubai from 22 June and Dubai residents within Dubai will be able to travel overseas from 23 June. Further information about what returning residents need to do before they travel and what will happen on arrival in Dubai is available on the Government of Dubai website including information about testing on arrival and quarantine.
Dubai residents must apply for a permit to return on the Dubai Government General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs website . Before they fly returning residents will also be required to complete a Health Declaration form and a Quarantine form. Both forms need to be printed, completed and handed over to Dubai Health Authority staff on arrival. Further information about how to book a flight for returning residents is available on the Emirates Airline website.
On their return to Dubai, returning residents will have register their details on the COVID-19 DXB App.
*Visitors to Dubai: New procedures for visitors to Dubai were announced by the Government of Dubai on 21 June. Visitors are able to travel to Dubai from 7 July. Further information about what visitors need to do before they travel and what will happen on arrival in Dubai is available on the Government of Dubai website including information about testing on arrival and quarantine. Before they fly returning residents will also be required to complete a Health Declaration form and a Quarantine form. Both forms need to be printed, completed and handed over to Dubai Health Authority staff on arrival. Visitors to Dubai will also have to register their details on the COVID-19 DXB App. Visitors must have international health insurance before travelling. All visitors to Dubai must adhere to all public health measures issued by the Dubai authorities including any requirements to quarantine.
*Cruise ships: Passenger cruises are currently not allowed to dock in the UAE as a result of measures taken to combat COVID-19. A UAE-wide notice to mariners has issued. Vessels already in port have been allowed to disembark passengers at the end of cruises. The Cruise Line International Association (CLIA) has adopted an enhanced member Read more
United Arab Emirates Latest News: UAE temporarily suspends issuance of visas to nationals of Turkey, Iran, Yemen, Syria, Iraq, Somalia, Libya, Kenya, Afghanistan, Pakistan due of COVID-19 (OutlookIndia, 18.11.2020)
International Restrictions:
*Testing before arrival: COVID-19 entry requirements may change at short notice, and travellers to the UAE are strongly encouraged to check the specifics, including the time frames for undertaking COVID-19 PCR tests before departure with their airline before they travel. Further details are available on British Airways , Emirates and Etihad websites including information about what these airlines accept as proof of a negative test.
Individuals travelling to Dubai now have the option to undertake a PCR test on arrival at Dubai airport. If you test positive for COVID-19 on arrival in Dubai, depending on your symptoms and your accommodation plans, you may be required to self-isolate in a government led facility, a hospital, your hotel or privately arranged accommodation. For the rest of the the UAE, authorities have stated that, citizens, returning residents and tourists have to undertake a COVID-19 PCR test in the country they are currently in, and have proof of a negative result, before travelling to the UAE. If you are transiting through the UAE to a country that requires a PCR test on arrival, then you must obtain a negative PCR test before travelling. In all circumstances, the test must be a PCR swab test. Other test results including antibody tests are not accepted. The test must have been carried out within 96 hours of departure.Further information is available on the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority website. Children under the age of 12 and those with severe and moderate disabilities will be exempted from the test requirement. Those entering the country may also be asked to take a further COVID-19 PCR test on arrival and to complete a period of self-isolation or quarantine.
*Entry to the United Arab Emirates other than Dubai: Some foreign residents are being allowed to return to the UAE based on criteria set by the UAE authorities. Visit and tourist visas are not currently being issued by the Abu Dhabi authorities at Abu Dhabi airport. Visitors can travel to Abu Dhabi by road but must have had a COVID-19 PCR test within 48 hours. All arrivals in Abu Dhabi must isolate for 14 days on arrival and will be required to wear a medically approved wristband for the duration of their quarantine. The wristband will be provided at Abu Dhabi airport after clearing immigration. Arrivals under the age of 18, over the age of 60, diplomats or those suffering from a chronic disease will be exempt from having to wear the wristband. Further information is available on the Etihad Airlines website including a Abu Dhabi Media Office and on the UAE Government Portal. The National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority announced on 12 August that, apart from Dubai, there is no longer a requirement for residents who wish to return to the UAE to get permission to travel. Further information is available on the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority website.
*Dubai residents returning to or leaving Dubai: The government of Dubai announced new procedures on 21 June for returning residents. Dubai residents overseas will be able to return to the Dubai from 22 June and Dubai residents within Dubai will be able to travel overseas from 23 June. Further information about what returning residents need to do before they travel and what will happen on arrival in Dubai is available on the Government of Dubai website including information about testing on arrival and quarantine.
Dubai residents must apply for a permit to return on the Dubai Government General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs website . Before they fly returning residents will also be required to complete a Health Declaration form and a Quarantine form. Both forms need to be printed, completed and handed over to Dubai Health Authority staff on arrival. Further information about how to book a flight for returning residents is available on the Emirates Airline website.
On their return to Dubai, returning residents will have register their details on the COVID-19 DXB App.
*Visitors to Dubai: New procedures for visitors to Dubai were announced by the Government of Dubai on 21 June. Visitors are able to travel to Dubai from 7 July. Further information about what visitors need to do before they travel and what will happen on arrival in Dubai is available on the Government of Dubai website including information about testing on arrival and quarantine. Before they fly returning residents will also be required to complete a Health Declaration form and a Quarantine form. Both forms need to be printed, completed and handed over to Dubai Health Authority staff on arrival. Visitors to Dubai will also have to register their details on the COVID-19 DXB App. Visitors must have international health insurance before travelling. All visitors to Dubai must adhere to all public health measures issued by the Dubai authorities including any requirements to quarantine.
*Cruise ships: Passenger cruises are currently not allowed to dock in the UAE as a result of measures taken to combat COVID-19. A UAE-wide notice to mariners has issued. Vessels already in port have been allowed to disembark passengers at the end of cruises. The Cruise Line International Association (CLIA) has adopted an enhanced member Read more
United Arab Emirates Latest News: Ras Al Khaimah International Airport will resume scheduled passenger flights from 15 October (Gulf Business News, 13.10.2020). Authorities reopen all seven regions to foreign visitors (Reuters, 24.09.2020).
International Restrictions:
Ras Al Khaimah International Airport (RAK airport) has announced that it will resume scheduled passenger flights from Thursday15 October. The United Arab Emirates resumed issuing visas to foreign visitors to all seven of its regions as of Thursday 24 September. The UAE authorities have stated that with effect from 11 August, all citizens, returning residents, transit passengers and tourists have to undertake a COVID-19 PCR test in the country they are currently in and have proof of a negative result before travelling to the UAE. The test must be a PCR swab test. Other test results including antibody tests are not accepted. The test must have been carried out within 96 hours of departure. The test result is required for travellers from all countries arriving at all airports in the UAE. Further information is available on the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority website. Children under the age of 12 and those with severe and moderate disabilities will be exempted from the test requirement. Those entering the country may also be asked to take a further COVID-19 PCR test on arrival and to complete a period of self-isolation.
**Entry to the United Arab Emirates other than Dubai: Some foreign residents are being allowed to return to the UAE based on criteria set by the UAE authorities. Visit and tourist visas are not currently being issued by the Abu Dhabi authorities at Abu Dhabi airport. Visitors can travel to Abu Dhabi by road but must have had a COVID-19 PCR test within 48 hours. All arrivals in Abu Dhabi must isolate for 14 days on arrival and will be required to wear a medically approved wristband for the duration of their quarantine. The wristband will be provided at Abu Dhabi airport after clearing immigration. Arrivals under the age of 18, over the age of 60, diplomats or those suffering from a chronic disease will be exempt from having to wear the wristband. Further information is available on the Etihad Airlines website including a Abu Dhabi Media Office and on the UAE Government Portal.
**Dubai residents returning to or leaving Dubai: All passengers travelling to Dubai from any destination, including passengers connecting in Dubai, must have a printed negative COVID-19 PCR test certificate to be accepted on the flight. The test must be taken a maximum of 96 hours before departure. The certificate must be for a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) swab test. Other test certificates including antibody tests and home testing kits are not accepted in Dubai. Bring an official, printed certificate to check-in – SMS and digital certificates are not accepted. Without a printed negative test certificate, you will not be accepted on the flight. Children under the age of 12 and passengers who have a moderate or severe disability are exempt from this test.
The government of Dubai announced new procedures on 21 June for returning residents. Dubai residents overseas will be able to return to the Dubai from 22 June and Dubai residents within Dubai will be able to travel overseas from 23 June. Further information about what returning residents need to do before they travel and what will happen on arrival in Dubai is available on the Government of Dubai website including information about testing on arrival and quarantine.
Dubai residents must apply for a permit to return on the Dubai Government General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs website . Before they fly returning residents will also be required to complete a Health Declaration form and a Quarantine form. Both forms need to be printed, completed and handed over to Dubai Health Authority staff on arrival. Further information about how to book a flight for returning residents is available on the Emirates Airline website.
On their return to Dubai, returning residents will have register their details on the COVID-19 DXB App.
**Visitors to Dubai: New procedures for visitors to Dubai were announced by the Government of Dubai on 21 June. Visitors are able to travel to Dubai from 7 July. Further information about what visitors need to do before they travel and what will happen on arrival in Dubai is available on the Government of Dubai website including information about testing on arrival and quarantine. Before they fly returning residents will also be required to complete a Health Declaration form and a Quarantine form. Both forms need to be printed, completed and handed over to Dubai Health Authority staff on arrival. Visitors to Dubai will also have to register their details on the COVID-19 DXB App. Visitors must have international health insurance before travelling and must show that they have had a negative COVID-19 PCR test a maximum of 96 hours before arrival. All visitors to Dubai must adhere to all public health measures issued by the Dubai authorities including any requirements to quarantine.
***Visitors to Abu Dhabi: Visit and tourist visas are not currently being issued by the Abu Dhabi authorities at Abu Dhabi airport. Visitors can travel to Abu Dhabi by road but must have had a COVID-19 PCR test within 48 hours. All arrivals in Abu Dhabi must isolate for 14 days on arrival and will be required to wear a medically approved wristband for the duration of their quarantine. The wristband will be provided at Abu Dhabi airport after clearing immigration. Arrivals under the age of 18, over the age of 60, diplomats or those suffering from a chronic disease will be exempt from having to wear the wristband.
Internal Restrictions:
Most schools across the UAE have reopened at the start of this academic year with a number of COVID-19 measures in place. Some have since closed following COVID-19 outbreaks.
Coronavirus cases continue to be recorded in the UAE and public health measures are in place in response to the outbreak. These can vary between Emirates and the ease of movement between regions is affected. The local rules may change, including at short notice. You should check them carefully before you travel and while you are here, and ensure you comply. You should comply with any additional measures put in place by the local authorities. The UAE authorities have stated that any violation of instructions and procedures put in place to limit the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) will be treated as a crime punishable by law. Since 2 June movement to and from the Emirate of Abu Dhabi has been restricted although movement within the Emirate of Abu Dhabi is allowed. You will need to have received a negative COVID-19 PCR test result within 48 hours prior to entering the Emirate of Abu Dhabi by land from elsewhere in the country.
United Arab Emirates Latest News: Ras Al Khaimah International Airport will resume scheduled passenger flights from 15 October (Gulf Business News, 13.10.2020). Authorities reopen all seven regions to foreign visitors (Reuters, 24.09.2020).
International Restrictions:
Ras Al Khaimah International Airport (RAK airport) has announced that it will resume scheduled passenger flights from Thursday15 October. The United Arab Emirates resumed issuing visas to foreign visitors to all seven of its regions as of Thursday 24 September. The UAE authorities have stated that with effect from 11 August, all citizens, returning residents, transit passengers and tourists have to undertake a COVID-19 PCR test in the country they are currently in and have proof of a negative result before travelling to the UAE. The test must be a PCR swab test. Other test results including antibody tests are not accepted. The test must have been carried out within 96 hours of departure. The test result is required for travellers from all countries arriving at all airports in the UAE. Further information is available on the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority website. Children under the age of 12 and those with severe and moderate disabilities will be exempted from the test requirement. Those entering the country may also be asked to take a further COVID-19 PCR test on arrival and to complete a period of self-isolation.
**Entry to the United Arab Emirates other than Dubai: Some foreign residents are being allowed to return to the UAE based on criteria set by the UAE authorities. Visit and tourist visas are not currently being issued by the Abu Dhabi authorities at Abu Dhabi airport. Visitors can travel to Abu Dhabi by road but must have had a COVID-19 PCR test within 48 hours. All arrivals in Abu Dhabi must isolate for 14 days on arrival. The National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority announced on 12 August that, apart from Dubai, there is no longer a requirement for residents who wish to return to the UAE to get permission to travel. Further information is available on the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority website.
**Dubai residents returning to or leaving Dubai: All passengers travelling to Dubai from any destination, including passengers connecting in Dubai, must have a printed negative COVID-19 PCR test certificate to be accepted on the flight. The test must be taken a maximum of 96 hours before departure. The certificate must be for a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) swab test. Other test certificates including antibody tests and home testing kits are not accepted in Dubai. Bring an official, printed certificate to check-in – SMS and digital certificates are not accepted. Without a printed negative test certificate, you will not be accepted on the flight. Children under the age of 12 and passengers who have a moderate or severe disability are exempt from this test.
The government of Dubai announced new procedures on 21 June for returning residents. Dubai residents overseas will be able to return to the Dubai from 22 June and Dubai residents within Dubai will be able to travel overseas from 23 June. Further information about what returning residents need to do before they travel and what will happen on arrival in Dubai is available on the Government of Dubai website including information about testing on arrival and quarantine.
Dubai residents must apply for a permit to return on the Dubai Government General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs website . Before they fly returning residents will also be required to complete a Health Declaration form and a Quarantine form. Both forms need to be printed, completed and handed over to Dubai Health Authority staff on arrival. Further information about how to book a flight for returning residents is available on the Emirates Airline website.
On their return to Dubai, returning residents will have register their details on the COVID-19 DXB App.
**Visitors to Dubai: New procedures for visitors to Dubai were announced by the Government of Dubai on 21 June. Visitors are able to travel to Dubai from 7 July. Further information about what visitors need to do before they travel and what will happen on arrival in Dubai is available on the Government of Dubai website including information about testing on arrival and quarantine. Before they fly returning residents will also be required to complete a Health Declaration form and a Quarantine form. Both forms need to be printed, completed and handed over to Dubai Health Authority staff on arrival. Visitors to Dubai will also have to register their details on the COVID-19 DXB App. Visitors must have international health insurance before travelling and must show that they have had a negative COVID-19 PCR test a maximum of 96 hours before arrival. All visitors to Dubai must adhere to all public health measures issued by the Dubai authorities including any requirements to quarantine.
***Visitors to Abu Dhabi: Visit and tourist visas are not currently being issued by the Abu Dhabi authorities at Abu Dhabi airport. Visitors can travel to Abu Dhabi by road but must have had a COVID-19 PCR test within 48 hours. All arrivals in Abu Dhabi must isolate for 14 days on arrival and will be required to wear a medically approved wristband for the duration of their quarantine. The wristband will be provided at Abu Dhabi airport after clearing immigration. Arrivals under the age of 18, over the age of 60, diplomats or those suffering from a chronic disease will be exempt from having to wear the wristband.
Internal Restrictions:
Most schools across the UAE have reopened at the start of this academic year with a number of COVID-19 measures in place. Some have since closed following COVID-19 outbreaks.
Coronavirus cases continue to be recorded in the UAE and public health measures are in place in response to the outbreak. These can vary between Emirates and the ease of movement between regions is affected. The local rules may change, including at short notice. You should check them carefully before you travel and while you are here, and ensure you comply. You should comply with any additional measures put in place by the local authorities. The UAE authorities have stated that any violation of instructions and procedures put in place to limit the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) will be treated as a crime punishable by law. Since 2 June movement to and from the Emirate of Abu Dhabi has been restricted although movement within the Emirate of Abu Dhabi is allowed. You will need to have received a negative COVID-19 PCR test result within 48 hours prior to entering the Emirate of Abu Dhabi by land from elsewhere in the country.
United Arab Emirates Latest News: Authorities reopen all seven regions to foreign visitors (Reuters, 24.09.2020). Civil Aviation Authority suspends all Air India Express flights to Dubai until 2 October following violation of COVID-19 requirements (Hindustan Times, 18.09.2020).
International Restrictions:
The United Arab Emirates will resume issuing visas to foreign visitors to all seven of its regions as of Thursday 24 September. The UAE authorities have stated that with effect from 11 August, all citizens, returning residents, transit passengers and tourists have to undertake a COVID-19 PCR test in the country they are currently in and have proof of a negative result before travelling to the UAE. The test must be a PCR swab test. Other test results including antibody tests are not accepted. The test must have been carried out within 96 hours of departure. The test result is required for travellers from all countries arriving at all airports in the UAE. Further information is available on the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority website. Children under the age of 12 and those with severe and moderate disabilities will be exempted from the test requirement. Those entering the country may also be asked to take a further COVID-19 PCR test on arrival and to complete a period of self-isolation.
**Entry to the United Arab Emirates other than Dubai: Some foreign residents are being allowed to return to the UAE based on criteria set by the UAE authorities. Visit and tourist visas are not currently being issued by the Abu Dhabi authorities at Abu Dhabi airport. Visitors can travel to Abu Dhabi by road but must have had a COVID-19 PCR test within 48 hours. All arrivals in Abu Dhabi must isolate for 14 days on arrival. The National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority announced on 12 August that, apart from Dubai, there is no longer a requirement for residents who wish to return to the UAE to get permission to travel. Further information is available on the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority website.
**Dubai residents returning to or leaving Dubai: All passengers travelling to Dubai from any destination, including passengers connecting in Dubai, must have a printed negative COVID-19 PCR test certificate to be accepted on the flight. The test must be taken a maximum of 96 hours before departure. The certificate must be for a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) swab test. Other test certificates including antibody tests and home testing kits are not accepted in Dubai. Bring an official, printed certificate to check-in – SMS and digital certificates are not accepted. Without a printed negative test certificate, you will not be accepted on the flight. Children under the age of 12 and passengers who have a moderate or severe disability are exempt from this test.
The government of Dubai announced new procedures on 21 June for returning residents. Dubai residents overseas will be able to return to the Dubai from 22 June and Dubai residents within Dubai will be able to travel overseas from 23 June. Further information about what returning residents need to do before they travel and what will happen on arrival in Dubai is available on the Government of Dubai website including information about testing on arrival and quarantine.
Dubai residents must apply for a permit to return on the Dubai Government General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs website . Before they fly returning residents will also be required to complete a Health Declaration form and a Quarantine form. Both forms need to be printed, completed and handed over to Dubai Health Authority staff on arrival. Further information about how to book a flight for returning residents is available on the Emirates Airline website.
On their return to Dubai, returning residents will have register their details on the COVID-19 DXB App.
**Visitors to Dubai: New procedures for visitors to Dubai were announced by the Government of Dubai on 21 June. Visitors are able to travel to Dubai from 7 July. Further information about what visitors need to do before they travel and what will happen on arrival in Dubai is available on the Government of Dubai website including information about testing on arrival and quarantine. Before they fly returning residents will also be required to complete a Health Declaration form and a Quarantine form. Both forms need to be printed, completed and handed over to Dubai Health Authority staff on arrival. Visitors to Dubai will also have to register their details on the COVID-19 DXB App. Visitors must have international health insurance before travelling and must show that they have had a negative COVID-19 PCR test a maximum of 96 hours before arrival. All visitors to Dubai must adhere to all public health measures issued by the Dubai authorities including any requirements to quarantine.
***Visitors to Abu Dhabi: Visit and tourist visas are not currently being issued by the Abu Dhabi authorities at Abu Dhabi airport. Visitors can travel to Abu Dhabi by road but must have had a COVID-19 PCR test within 48 hours. All arrivals in Abu Dhabi must isolate for 14 days on arrival and will be required to wear a medically approved wristband for the duration of their quarantine. The wristband will be provided at Abu Dhabi airport after clearing immigration. Arrivals under the age of 18, over the age of 60, diplomats or those suffering from a chronic disease will be exempt from having to wear the wristband.
Internal Restrictions:
Most schools across the UAE have reopened at the start of this academic year with a number of COVID-19 measures in place. Some have since closed following COVID-19 outbreaks.
Coronavirus cases continue to be recorded in the UAE and public health measures are in place in response to the outbreak. These can vary between Emirates and the ease of movement between regions is affected. The local rules may change, including at short notice. You should check them carefully before you travel and while you are here, and ensure you comply. You should comply with any additional measures put in place by the local authorities. The UAE authorities have stated that any violation of instructions and procedures put in place to limit the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) will be treated as a crime punishable by law. Since 2 June movement to and from the Emirate of Abu Dhabi has been restricted although movement within the Emirate of Abu Dhabi is allowed. You will need to have received a negative COVID-19 PCR test result within 48 hours prior to entering the Emirate of Abu Dhabi by land from elsewhere in the country.
United Arab Emirates Latest News: Authorities reopen all seven regions to foreign visitors (Reuters, 24.09.2020). Civil Aviation Authority suspends all Air India Express flights to Dubai until 2 October following violation of COVID-19 requirements (Hindustan Times, 18.09.2020).
International Restrictions:
The United Arab Emirates will resume issuing visas to foreign visitors to all seven of its regions as of Thursday 24 September. The UAE authorities have stated that with effect from 11 August, all citizens, returning residents, transit passengers and tourists have to undertake a COVID-19 PCR test in the country they are currently in and have proof of a negative result before travelling to the UAE. The test must be a PCR swab test. Other test results including antibody tests are not accepted. The test must have been carried out within 96 hours of departure. The test result is required for travellers from all countries arriving at all airports in the UAE. Further information is available on the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority website. Children under the age of 12 and those with severe and moderate disabilities will be exempted from the test requirement. Those entering the country may also be asked to take a further COVID-19 PCR test on arrival and to complete a period of self-isolation.
**Entry to the United Arab Emirates other than Dubai: Some foreign residents are being allowed to return to the UAE based on criteria set by the UAE authorities. Visit and tourist visas are not currently being issued by the Abu Dhabi authorities at Abu Dhabi airport. Visitors can travel to Abu Dhabi by road but must have had a COVID-19 PCR test within 48 hours. All arrivals in Abu Dhabi must isolate for 14 days on arrival. The National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority announced on 12 August that, apart from Dubai, there is no longer a requirement for residents who wish to return to the UAE to get permission to travel. Further information is available on the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority website.
**Dubai residents returning to or leaving Dubai: All passengers travelling to Dubai from any destination, including passengers connecting in Dubai, must have a printed negative COVID-19 PCR test certificate to be accepted on the flight. The test must be taken a maximum of 96 hours before departure. The certificate must be for a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) swab test. Other test certificates including antibody tests and home testing kits are not accepted in Dubai. Bring an official, printed certificate to check-in – SMS and digital certificates are not accepted. Without a printed negative test certificate, you will not be accepted on the flight. Children under the age of 12 and passengers who have a moderate or severe disability are exempt from this test.
The government of Dubai announced new procedures on 21 June for returning residents. Dubai residents overseas will be able to return to the Dubai from 22 June and Dubai residents within Dubai will be able to travel overseas from 23 June. Further information about what returning residents need to do before they travel and what will happen on arrival in Dubai is available on the Government of Dubai website including information about testing on arrival and quarantine.
Dubai residents must apply for a permit to return on the Dubai Government General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs website . Before they fly returning residents will also be required to complete a Health Declaration form and a Quarantine form. Both forms need to be printed, completed and handed over to Dubai Health Authority staff on arrival. Further information about how to book a flight for returning residents is available on the Emirates Airline website.
On their return to Dubai, returning residents will have register their details on the COVID-19 DXB App.
**Visitors to Dubai: New procedures for visitors to Dubai were announced by the Government of Dubai on 21 June. Visitors are able to travel to Dubai from 7 July. Further information about what visitors need to do before they travel and what will happen on arrival in Dubai is available on the Government of Dubai website including information about testing on arrival and quarantine. Before they fly returning residents will also be required to complete a Health Declaration form and a Quarantine form. Both forms need to be printed, completed and handed over to Dubai Health Authority staff on arrival. Visitors to Dubai will also have to register their details on the COVID-19 DXB App. Visitors must have international health insurance before travelling and must show that they have had a negative COVID-19 PCR test a maximum of 96 hours before arrival. All visitors to Dubai must adhere to all public health measures issued by the Dubai authorities including any requirements to quarantine.
Internal Restrictions:
Most schools across the UAE have reopened at the start of this academic year with a number of COVID-19 measures in place. Some have since closed following COVID-19 outbreaks.
Coronavirus cases continue to be recorded in the UAE and public health measures are in place in response to the outbreak. These can vary between Emirates and the ease of movement between regions is affected. The local rules may change, including at short notice. You should check them carefully before you travel and while you are here, and ensure you comply. You should comply with any additional measures put in place by the local authorities. The UAE authorities have stated that any violation of instructions and procedures put in place to limit the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) will be treated as a crime punishable by law. Since 2 June movement to and from the Emirate of Abu Dhabi has been restricted although movement within the Emirate of Abu Dhabi is allowed. You will need to have received a negative COVID-19 PCR test result within 48 hours prior to entering the Emirate of Abu Dhabi by land from elsewhere in the country.
United Arab Emirates Latest News: The UAE has relaxed its entry requirements for tourist and residents; U.S. passport holders are able to enter the country (Kayak, 20.08.2020). The UAE Civil Aviation Authority (GCCA) suspends flights from Pakistan effective Monday 29 June. (Simple Flying, 29.06.2020)
International Restrictions:
The UAE authorities have stated that with effect from 11 August, all citizens, returning residents, transit passengers and tourists have to undertake a COVID-19 PCR test in the country they are currently in and have proof of a negative result before travelling to the UAE. The test must be a PCR swab test. Other test results including antibody tests are not accepted. The test must have been carried out within 96 hours of departure. The test result is required for travellers from all countries arriving at all airports in the UAE. Further information is available on the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority website. Children under the age of 12 and those with severe and moderate disabilities will be exempted from the test requirement. Those entering the country may also be asked to take a further COVID-19 PCR test on arrival and to complete a period of self-isolation.
**Entry to the United Arab Emirates other than Dubai: Some foreign residents are being allowed to return to the UAE based on criteria set by the UAE authorities. Visit and tourist visas are not currently being issued by the Abu Dhabi authorities at Abu Dhabi airport. Visitors can travel to Abu Dhabi by road but must have had a COVID-19 PCR test within 48 hours. All arrivals in Abu Dhabi must isolate for 14 days on arrival. The National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority announced on 12 August that, apart from Dubai, there is no longer a requirement for residents who wish to return to the UAE to get permission to travel. Further information is available on the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority website.
**Dubai residents returning to or leaving Dubai: All passengers travelling to Dubai from any destination, including passengers connecting in Dubai, must have a printed negative COVID-19 PCR test certificate to be accepted on the flight. The test must be taken a maximum of 96 hours before departure. The certificate must be for a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) swab test. Other test certificates including antibody tests and home testing kits are not accepted in Dubai. Bring an official, printed certificate to check-in – SMS and digital certificates are not accepted. Without a printed negative test certificate, you will not be accepted on the flight. Children under the age of 12 and passengers who have a moderate or severe disability are exempt from this test.
The government of Dubai announced new procedures on 21 June for returning residents. Dubai residents overseas will be able to return to the Dubai from 22 June and Dubai residents within Dubai will be able to travel overseas from 23 June. Further information about what returning residents need to do before they travel and what will happen on arrival in Dubai is available on the Government of Dubai website including information about testing on arrival and quarantine.
Dubai residents must apply for a permit to return on the Dubai Government General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs website . Before they fly returning residents will also be required to complete a Health Declaration form and a Quarantine form. Both forms need to be printed, completed and handed over to Dubai Health Authority staff on arrival. Further information about how to book a flight for returning residents is available on the Emirates Airline website.
On their return to Dubai, returning residents will have register their details on the COVID-19 DXB App.
**Visitors to Dubai: New procedures for visitors to Dubai were announced by the Government of Dubai on 21 June. Visitors are able to travel to Dubai from 7 July. Further information about what visitors need to do before they travel and what will happen on arrival in Dubai is available on the Government of Dubai website including information about testing on arrival and quarantine. Before they fly returning residents will also be required to complete a Health Declaration form and a Quarantine form. Both forms need to be printed, completed and handed over to Dubai Health Authority staff on arrival. Visitors to Dubai will also have to register their details on the COVID-19 DXB App. Visitors must have international health insurance before travelling and must show that they have had a negative COVID-19 PCR test a maximum of 96 hours before arrival. All visitors to Dubai must adhere to all public health measures issued by the Dubai authorities including any requirements to quarantine.
Internal Restrictions:
Most schools across the UAE have reopened at the start of this academic year with a number of COVID-19 measures in place. Some have since closed following COVID-19 outbreaks.
Coronavirus cases continue to be recorded in the UAE and public health measures are in place in response to the outbreak. These can vary between Emirates and the ease of movement between regions is affected. The local rules may change, including at short notice. You should check them carefully before you travel and while you are here, and ensure you comply. You should comply with any additional measures put in place by the local authorities. The UAE authorities have stated that any violation of instructions and procedures put in place to limit the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) will be treated as a crime punishable by law. Since 2 June movement to and from the Emirate of Abu Dhabi has been restricted although movement within the Emirate of Abu Dhabi is allowed. You will need to have received a negative COVID-19 PCR test result within 48 hours prior to entering the Emirate of Abu Dhabi by land from elsewhere in the country.
United Arab Emirates The UAE has relaxed its entry requirements for tourist and residents; U.S. passport holders are able to enter the country (Kayak, 20.08.2020). The UAE Civil Aviation Authority (GCCA) suspends flights from Pakistan effective Monday 29 June. (Simple Flying, 29.06.2020)
*****
International restrictions:
The UAE authorities have stated that with effect from 11 August, all citizens, returning residents, transit passengers and tourists have to undertake a COVID-19 PCR test in the country they are currently in and have proof of a negative result before travelling to the UAE. The test must be a PCR swab test. Other test results including antibody tests are not accepted. The test must have been carried out within 96 hours of departure. The test result is required for travellers from all countries arriving at all airports in the UAE. Further information is available on the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority website. Children under the age of 12 and those with severe and moderate disabilities will be exempted from the test requirement. Those entering the country may also be asked to take a further COVID-19 PCR test on arrival and to complete a period of self-isolation.
***Entry to the United Arab Emirates other than Dubai: Some foreign residents are being allowed to return to the UAE based on criteria set by the UAE authorities. Visit and tourist visas are not currently being issued by the Abu Dhabi authorities at Abu Dhabi airport. Visitors can travel to Abu Dhabi by road but must have had a COVID-19 PCR test within 48 hours. All arrivals in Abu Dhabi must isolate for 14 days on arrival. The National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority announced on 12 August that, apart from Dubai, there is no longer a requirement for residents who wish to return to the UAE to get permission to travel. Further information is available on the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority website.
***Dubai residents returning to or leaving Dubai: All passengers travelling to Dubai from any destination, including passengers connecting in Dubai, must have a printed negative COVID-19 PCR test certificate to be accepted on the flight. The test must be taken a maximum of 96 hours before departure. The certificate must be for a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) swab test. Other test certificates including antibody tests and home testing kits are not accepted in Dubai. Bring an official, printed certificate to check-in – SMS and digital certificates are not accepted. Without a printed negative test certificate, you will not be accepted on the flight. Children under the age of 12 and passengers who have a moderate or severe disability are exempt from this test.
The government of Dubai announced new procedures on 21 June for returning residents. Dubai residents overseas will be able to return to the Dubai from 22 June and Dubai residents within Dubai will be able to travel overseas from 23 June. Further information about what returning residents need to do before they travel and what will happen on arrival in Dubai is available on the Government of Dubai website including information about testing on arrival and quarantine.
Dubai residents must apply for a permit to return on the Dubai Government General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs website . Before they fly returning residents will also be required to complete a Health Declaration form and a Quarantine form. Both forms need to be printed, completed and handed over to Dubai Health Authority staff on arrival. Further information about how to book a flight for returning residents is available on the Emirates Airline website.
On their return to Dubai, returning residents will have register their details on the COVID-19 DXB App.
***Visitors to Dubai: New procedures for visitors to Dubai were announced by the Government of Dubai on 21 June. Visitors are able to travel to Dubai from 7 July. Further information about what visitors need to do before they travel and what will happen on arrival in Dubai is available on the Government of Dubai website including information about testing on arrival and quarantine. Before they fly returning residents will also be required to complete a Health Declaration form and a Quarantine form. Both forms need to be printed, completed and handed over to Dubai Health Authority staff on arrival. Visitors to Dubai will also have to register their details on the COVID-19 DXB App. Visitors must have international health insurance before travelling and must show that they have had a negative COVID-19 PCR test a maximum of 96 hours before arrival. All visitors to Dubai must adhere to all public health measures issued by the Dubai authorities including any requirements to quarantine.
*****
Internal restrictions:
Coronavirus cases continue to be recorded in the UAE and public health measures are in place in response to the outbreak. These can vary between Emirates and the ease of movement between regions is affected. The local rules may change, including at short notice. You should check them carefully before you travel and while you are here, and ensure you comply. You should comply with any additional measures put in place by the local authorities. The UAE authorities have stated that any violation of instructions and procedures put in place to limit the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) will be treated as a crime punishable by law. Since 2 June movement to and from the Emirate of Abu Dhabi has been restricted although movement within the Emirate of Abu Dhabi is allowed. You will need to have received a negative COVID-19 PCR test result within 48 hours prior to entering the Emirate of Abu Dhabi by land from elsewhere in the country.
United Arab Emirates The UAE has relaxed its entry requirements for tourist and residents; U.S. passport holders are able to enter the country (Kayak, 20.08.2020). The UAE Civil Aviation Authority (GCCA) suspends flights from Pakistan effective Monday 29 June. (Simple Flying, 29.06.2020)
*****
International restrictions:
The UAE authorities have stated that with effect from 11 August, all citizens, returning residents, transit passengers and tourists have to undertake a COVID-19 PCR test in the country they are currently in and have proof of a negative result before travelling to the UAE. The test must be a PCR swab test. Other test results including antibody tests are not accepted. The test must have been carried out within 96 hours of departure. The test result is required for travellers from all countries arriving at all airports in the UAE. Further information is available on the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority website. Children under the age of 12 and those with severe and moderate disabilities will be exempted from the test requirement. Those entering the country may also be asked to take a further COVID-19 PCR test on arrival and to complete a period of self-isolation.
***Entry to the United Arab Emirates other than Dubai: Some foreign residents are being allowed to return to the UAE based on criteria set by the UAE authorities. Visit and tourist visas are not currently being issued by the Abu Dhabi authorities at Abu Dhabi airport. Visitors can travel to Abu Dhabi by road but must have had a COVID-19 PCR test within 48 hours. All arrivals in Abu Dhabi must isolate for 14 days on arrival. The National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority announced on 12 August that, apart from Dubai, there is no longer a requirement for residents who wish to return to the UAE to get permission to travel. Further information is available on the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority website.
***Dubai residents returning to or leaving Dubai: The government of Dubai announced new procedures on 21 June for returning residents. Dubai residents overseas will be able to return to the Dubai from 22 June and Dubai residents within Dubai will be able to travel overseas from 23 June. Further information about what returning residents need to do before they travel and what will happen on arrival in Dubai is available on the Government of Dubai website including information about testing on arrival and quarantine.
Dubai residents must apply for a permit to return on the Dubai Government General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs website . Before they fly returning residents will also be required to complete a Health Declaration form and a Quarantine form. Both forms need to be printed, completed and handed over to Dubai Health Authority staff on arrival. Further information about how to book a flight for returning residents is available on the Emirates Airline website.
On their return to Dubai, returning residents will have register their details on the COVID-19 DXB App.
***Visitors to Dubai: New procedures for visitors to Dubai were announced by the Government of Dubai on 21 June. Visitors are able to travel to Dubai from 7 July. Further information about what visitors need to do before they travel and what will happen on arrival in Dubai is available on the Government of Dubai website including information about testing on arrival and quarantine. Before they fly returning residents will also be required to complete a Health Declaration form and a Quarantine form. Both forms need to be printed, completed and handed over to Dubai Health Authority staff on arrival. Visitors to Dubai will also have to register their details on the COVID-19 DXB App. Visitors must have international health insurance before travelling and with effect from 1 August, must show that they have had a negative COVID-19 PCR test a maximum of 96 hours before arrival. All visitors to Dubai must adhere to all public health measures issued by the Dubai authorities including any requirements to quarantine.
*****
Internal restrictions:
Coronavirus cases continue to be recorded in the UAE and public health measures are in place in response to the outbreak. These can vary between Emirates and the ease of movement between regions is affected. The local rules may change, including at short notice. You should check them carefully before you travel and while you are here, and ensure you comply. You should comply with any additional measures put in place by the local authorities. The UAE authorities have stated that any violation of instructions and procedures put in place to limit the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) will be treated as a crime punishable by law. Since 2 June movement to and from the Emirate of Abu Dhabi has been restricted although movement within the Emirate of Abu Dhabi is allowed. You will need to have received a negative COVID-19 PCR test result within 48 hours prior to entering the Emirate of Abu Dhabi by land from elsewhere in the country.
United Arab Emirates The UAE Civil Aviation Authority (GCCA) suspends flights from Pakistan effective Monday 29 June. (Simple Flying, 29.06.2020)
*****
International restrictions:
The UAE authorities have stated that with effect from 11 August, all citizens, returning residents, transit passengers and tourists have to undertake a COVID-19 PCR test in the country they are currently in and have proof of a negative result before travelling to the UAE. The test must be a PCR swab test. Other test results including antibody tests are not accepted. The test must have been carried out within 96 hours of departure. The test result is required for travellers from all countries arriving at all airports in the UAE. Further information is available on the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority website [https://covid19.ncema.gov.ae/en/News/Details/1393]. Children under the age of 12 and those with severe and moderate disabilities will be exempted from the test requirement. Those entering the country may also be asked to take a further COVID-19 PCR test on arrival and to complete a period of self-isolation.
***Entry to the United Arab Emirates other than Dubai: Some foreign residents are being allowed to return to the UAE based on criteria set by the UAE authorities. Visit and tourist visas are not currently being issued by the Abu Dhabi authorities at Abu Dhabi airport. Visitors can travel to Abu Dhabi by road but must have had a COVID-19 PCR test within 48 hours. All arrivals in Abu Dhabi must isolate for 14 days on arrival. The National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority announced on 12 August that, apart from Dubai, there is no longer a requirement for residents who wish to return to the UAE to get permission to travel. Further information is available on the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority website [https://covid19.ncema.gov.ae/en/News/Details/1419].
***Dubai residents returning to or leaving Dubai: The government of Dubai announced new procedures on 21 June for returning residents. Dubai residents overseas will be able to return to the Dubai from 22 June and Dubai residents within Dubai will be able to travel overseas from 23 June. Further information about what returning residents need to do before they travel and what will happen on arrival in Dubai is available on the Government of Dubai website [https://mediaoffice.ae/en/news/2020/June/21-06/Supreme-Committee-of-Crisis-and-Disaster-Management-announces-new-air-travel-protocols] including information about testing on arrival and quarantine. Dubai residents must apply for a permit to return on the Dubai Government General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs website [https://smart.gdrfad.gov.ae/Smart_OTCServicesPortal/ReturnPermitServiceForm.aspx]. Before they fly returning residents will also be required to complete a Health Declaration Form [https://c.ekstatic.net/ecl/documents/health-declaration-e-form.pdf] and a Quarantine Form [https://c.ekstatic.net/ecl/documents/dubai-arrivals-quarantine-procedure-declaration-form.pdf] Both forms need to be printed, completed and handed over to Dubai Health Authority staff on arrival. On their return to Dubai, returning residents will have register their details on the COVID-19 DXB App.
***Visitors to Dubai: New procedures for visitors to Dubai were announced by the Government of Dubai on 21 June. Visitors are able to travel to Dubai from 7 July. Further information about what visitors need to do before they travel and what will happen on arrival in Dubai is available on the Government of Dubai website [https://mediaoffice.ae/en/news/2020/June/21-06/Supreme-Committee-of-Crisis-and-Disaster-Management-announces-new-air-travel-protocols] including information about testing on arrival and quarantine. Before they fly returning residents will also be required to complete a Health Declaration Form [https://c.ekstatic.net/ecl/documents/health-declaration-e-form.pdf] and a Quarantine Form [https://c.ekstatic.net/ecl/documents/dubai-arrivals-quarantine-procedure-declaration-form.pdf]. Both forms need to be printed, completed and handed over to Dubai Health Authority staff on arrival. Visitors to Dubai will also have to register their details on the COVID-19 DXB App. Visitors must have international health insurance before travelling and with effect from 1 August, must show that they have had a negative COVID-19 PCR test a maximum of 96 hours before arrival. All visitors to Dubai must adhere to all public health measures issued by the Dubai authorities including any requirements to quarantine.
*****
Internal restrictions:
Coronavirus cases continue to be recorded in the UAE and public health measures are in place in response to the outbreak. These can vary between Emirates and the ease of movement between regions is affected. The local rules may change, including at short notice. You should check them carefully before you travel and while you are here, and ensure you comply. You should comply with any additional measures put in place by the local authorities. The UAE authorities have stated that any violation of instructions and procedures put in place to limit the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) will be treated as a crime punishable by law. Since 2 June movement to and from the Emirate of Abu Dhabi has been restricted although movement within the Emirate of Abu Dhabi is allowed. You will need to have received a negative COVID-19 PCR test result within 48 hours prior to entering the Emirate of Abu Dhabi by land from elsewhere in the country.
United Arab Emirates The UAE Civil Aviation Authority (GCCA) suspends flights from Pakistan effective Monday 29 June. (Simple Flying, 29.06.2020)
*****
International restrictions:
Some foreign residents, are being allowed to return to the UAE based on criteria set by the UAE authorities. Visit and tourist visas are not currently being issued by the Abu Dhabi authorities at Abu Dhabi airport. Visitors can travel to Abu Dhabi by road but must have had a COVID-19 PCR test within 48 hours and must isolate for 14 days on arrival. Residents who wish to return to the UAE, apart from Dubai, will have to get approval from the UAE authorities and should continue to apply online on the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship website. This website is not always available from Microsoft Internet Explorer so you should use another web browser such as. Google Chrome or Firefox. From 22 June there is a separate process for Dubai residents which is outlined below. Applications will be assessed by the UAE authorities based on their own criteria and, if approved, you will be issued with a unique reference number. You will need this reference number to book a flight. Flights are sold and operated by Etihad and Emirates airlines. Please note that the availability of flights may change at short notice.
**Dubai residents returning or leaving Dubai: The government of Dubai announced new procedures on 21 June for returning residents. Dubai residents overseas will be able to return to the Dubai from 22 June and Dubai residents within Dubai will be able to travel overseas from 23 June. Dubai residents must apply for a permit to return on the Dubai Government General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs website [https://smart.gdrfad.gov.ae/Smart_OTCServicesPortal/ReturnPermitServiceForm.aspx]. Before they fly returning residents will also be required to complete a Health Declaration Form [https://c.ekstatic.net/ecl/documents/health-declaration-e-form.pdf] and a Quarantine Form [https://c.ekstatic.net/ecl/documents/dubai-arrivals-quarantine-procedure-declaration-form.pdf]. Both forms need to be printed, completed and handed over to Dubai Health Authority staff on arrival.
*** Visitors to Dubai: New procedures for visitors to Dubai were announced by the Government of Dubai on 21 June. Visitors are able to travel to Dubai from 7 July. Further information about what visitors need to do before they travel and what will happen on arrival in Dubai is available on the Government of Dubai website including information about testing on arrival and quarantine. Before visitors fly to Dubai, they will also be required to complete a Health Declaration Form [https://c.ekstatic.net/ecl/documents/health-declaration-e-form.pdf] and a Quarantine Form [https://c.ekstatic.net/ecl/documents/dubai-arrivals-quarantine-procedure-declaration-form.pdf]. Both forms need to be printed, completed and handed over to Dubai Health Authority staff on arrival. Visitors to Dubai will also have to register their details on the COVID-19 DXB App. Visitors must have international health insurance before travelling and with effect from 1 August, must show that they have had a negative COVID-19 PCR test a maximum of 96 hours before arrival. All visitors to Dubai must adhere to all public health measures issued by the Dubai authorities including any requirements to quarantine.
*****
Internal restrictions:
Coronavirus cases continue to be recorded in the UAE and public health measures are in place in response to the outbreak. These can vary between Emirates and the ease of movement between regions is affected. The local rules may change, including at short notice. You should check them carefully before you travel and while you are here, and ensure you comply. You should comply with any additional measures put in place by the local authorities. The UAE authorities have stated that any violation of instructions and procedures put in place to limit the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) will be treated as a crime punishable by law. Since 2 June movement to and from the Emirate of Abu Dhabi has been restricted although movement within the Emirate of Abu Dhabi is allowed. You will need to have received a negative COVID-19 PCR test result within 48 hours prior to entering the Emirate of Abu Dhabi by land from elsewhere in the country.
United Arab Emirates The UAE Civil Aviation Authority (GCCA) suspends flights from Pakistan effective Monday 29 June. (Simple Flying, 29.06.2020)
*****
International restrictions:
Commercial flights are now operating to and from the UAE.The UAE authorities have stated that with effect from 1 August, all citizens, returning residents, transit passengers and tourists have to undertake a COVID-19 test in the country they are currently in and have a negative result before travelling to the UAE. The test must be taken a maximum of 96 hours before departure. The test must be registered and carried out at one of the UAE-approved testing centres that are listed on the COVID-19 Screening Registration website [https://screening.purehealth.ae/application]. The test result is required for travellers from all countries arriving at all airports in the UAE. Children under the age of 12 and those with severe and moderate disabilities will be exempted from the test requirement. Those entering the country may also be asked to take a further PCR COVID-19 test on arrival and to complete a period of self-isolation.
**Dubai: Visitors are able to travel to Dubai from 7 July. Further information about what visitors need to do before they travel and what will happen on arrival in Dubai is available on the Government of Dubai website [https://mediaoffice.ae/en/news/2020/June/21-06/Supreme-Committee-of-Crisis-and-Disaster-Management-announces-new-air-travel-protocols].including information about testing on arrival and quarantine. Before visitors fly to Dubai, they will also be required to complete a Health Declaration Form [https://c.ekstatic.net/ecl/documents/health-declaration-e-form.pdf] and a Quarantine Form [https://c.ekstatic.net/ecl/documents/dubai-arrivals-quarantine-procedure-declaration-form.pdf]. Both forms need to be printed, completed and handed over to Dubai Health Authority staff on arrival. Visitors to Dubai will also have to register their details on the COVID-19 DXB App. Visitors must have international health insurance before travelling and with effect from 1 August, must show that they have had a negative PCR COVID-19 test a maximum of 96 hours before arrival. All visitors to Dubai must adhere to all public health measures issued by the Dubai authorities including any requirements to quarantine. Stringent entry restrictions remain in place upon arrival at all airports in the UAE which may include, but are not limited to, a Health Authority COVID-19 test on arrival, mandatory quarantine period, usually via self-isolation at a private address if suitable or a hotel, for at least 14 days, and follow up testing before you are able to complete quarantine. Once any quarantine period is complete you must continue to comply with all measures put in place by the UAE authorities to prevent the spread of coronavirus.
**Abu Dhabi: Travelers going to Abu Dhabi must first get approval from the UAE authorities and should continue to apply online on the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship website. They will also need a medical certificate with a negative COVID-19 PCR test result issued at most 72 hours before departure. The certificate must be issued by an approved lab listed on https://screening.purehealth.ae.
*****
Internal restrictions:
Coronavirus cases continue to be recorded in the UAE and public health measures are in place in response to the outbreak. These can vary between Emirates and the ease of movement between regions is affected. The local rules may change, including at short notice. Since 2 June movement to and from the Emirate of Abu Dhabi has been restricted although movement within the Emirate of Abu Dhabi is allowed. You will need to have received a negative a PCR COVID-19 test result within 48 hours prior to entering the Emirate of Abu Dhabi by land from elsewhere in the country. While most shops, restaurants and supermarkets, and some tourist, cultural and leisure attractions and religious establishments are open, there are restrictions and requirements in place to help contain the disease. Social distancing and the wearing of face masks is mandatory when away from your home. This also applies to visitors staying in hotels when they are not in their room. All schools in the UAE are now closed for the remainder of this academic year. Many events have been cancelled.
United Arab Emirates The UAE Civil Aviation Authority (GCCA) suspends flights from Pakistan effective Monday 29 June. (Simple Flying, 29.06.2020)
*****
International restrictions:
Commercial flights are now operating to and from the UAE.The UAE authorities have stated that with effect from 1 August, all citizens, returning residents, transit passengers and tourists have to undertake a COVID-19 test in the country they are currently in and have a negative result before travelling to the UAE. The test must have been carried out within 96 hours of arrival. The test must be registered and carried out at one of the UAE-approved testing centres that are listed on the COVID-19 Screening Registration website [https://screening.purehealth.ae/application]. The test result is required for travellers from all countries arriving at all airports in the UAE. Children under the age of 12 and those with severe and moderate disabilities will be exempted from the test requirement. Those entering the country may also be asked to take a further PCR COVID-19 test on arrival and to complete a period of self-isolation.
**Dubai: Visitors are able to travel to Dubai from 7 July. Further information about what visitors need to do before they travel and what will happen on arrival in Dubai is available on the Government of Dubai website [https://mediaoffice.ae/en/news/2020/June/21-06/Supreme-Committee-of-Crisis-and-Disaster-Management-announces-new-air-travel-protocols].including information about testing on arrival and quarantine. Before visitors fly to Dubai, they will also be required to complete a Health Declaration Form [https://c.ekstatic.net/ecl/documents/health-declaration-e-form.pdf] and a Quarantine Form [https://c.ekstatic.net/ecl/documents/dubai-arrivals-quarantine-procedure-declaration-form.pdf]. Both forms need to be printed, completed and handed over to Dubai Health Authority staff on arrival. Visitors to Dubai will also have to register their details on the COVID-19 DXB App. Visitors must have international health insurance before travelling and with effect from 1 August, must show that they have had a negative PCR COVID-19 test a maximum of 96 hours before arrival. All visitors to Dubai must adhere to all public health measures issued by the Dubai authorities including any requirements to quarantine. Stringent entry restrictions remain in place upon arrival at all airports in the UAE which may include, but are not limited to, a Health Authority COVID-19 test on arrival, mandatory quarantine period, usually via self-isolation at a private address if suitable or a hotel, for at least 14 days, and follow up testing before you are able to complete quarantine. Once any quarantine period is complete you must continue to comply with all measures put in place by the UAE authorities to prevent the spread of coronavirus.
**Abu Dhabi: Travelers going to Abu Dhabi must first get approval from the UAE authorities and should continue to apply online on the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship website. They will also need a medical certificate with a negative COVID-19 PCR test result issued at most 72 hours before departure. The certificate must be issued by an approved lab listed on https://screening.purehealth.ae.
*****
Internal restrictions:
Coronavirus cases continue to be recorded in the UAE and public health measures are in place in response to the outbreak. These can vary between Emirates and the ease of movement between regions is affected. The local rules may change, including at short notice. Since 2 June movement to and from the Emirate of Abu Dhabi has been restricted although movement within the Emirate of Abu Dhabi is allowed. You will need to have received a negative a PCR COVID-19 test result within 48 hours prior to entering the Emirate of Abu Dhabi by land from elsewhere in the country. While most shops, restaurants and supermarkets, and some tourist, cultural and leisure attractions and religious establishments are open, there are restrictions and requirements in place to help contain the disease. Social distancing and the wearing of face masks is mandatory when away from your home. This also applies to visitors staying in hotels when they are not in their room. All schools in the UAE are now closed for the remainder of this academic year. Many events have been cancelled.
United Arab Emirates Visitors are able to travel to Dubai from 7 July. Commercial flights are now operating to and from the United Arab Emirates. The UAE Civil Aviation Authority (GCCA) suspends flights from Pakistan effective Monday 29 June. (Simple Flying, 29.06.2020)
*****
International restrictions:
Commercial flights are now operating to and from the UAE.The UAE authorities have stated that with effect from 1 August, all citizens, returning residents, transit passengers and tourists have to undertake a COVID-19 test in the country they are currently in and have a negative result before travelling to the UAE. The test must have been carried out within 96 hours of arrival. The test must be registered and carried out at one of the UAE-approved testing centres that are listed on the COVID-19 Screening Registration website [https://screening.purehealth.ae/application]. The test result is required for travellers from all countries arriving at all airports in the UAE. Children under the age of 12 and those with severe and moderate disabilities will be exempted from the test requirement. Those entering the country may also be asked to take a further PCR COVID-19 test on arrival and to complete a period of self-isolation.
Visitors are able to travel to Dubai from 7 July. Further information about what visitors need to do before they travel and what will happen on arrival in Dubai is available on the Government of Dubai website [https://mediaoffice.ae/en/news/2020/June/21-06/Supreme-Committee-of-Crisis-and-Disaster-Management-announces-new-air-travel-protocols].including information about testing on arrival and quarantine. Before visitors fly to Dubai, they will also be required to complete a Health Declaration Form [https://c.ekstatic.net/ecl/documents/health-declaration-e-form.pdf] and a Quarantine Form [https://c.ekstatic.net/ecl/documents/dubai-arrivals-quarantine-procedure-declaration-form.pdf]. Both forms need to be printed, completed and handed over to Dubai Health Authority staff on arrival. Visitors to Dubai will also have to register their details on the COVID-19 DXB App. Visitors must have international health insurance before travelling and with effect from 1 August, must show that they have had a negative PCR COVID-19 test a maximum of 96 hours before arrival. All visitors to Dubai must adhere to all public health measures issued by the Dubai authorities including any requirements to quarantine. Stringent entry restrictions remain in place upon arrival at all airports in the UAE which may include, but are not limited to, a Health Authority COVID-19 test on arrival, mandatory quarantine period, usually via self-isolation at a private address if suitable or a hotel, for at least 14 days, and follow up testing before you are able to complete quarantine. Once any quarantine period is complete you must continue to comply with all measures put in place by the UAE authorities to prevent the spread of coronavirus.
*****
Internal restrictions:
Coronavirus cases continue to be recorded in the UAE and public health measures are in place in response to the outbreak. These can vary between Emirates and the ease of movement between regions is affected. The local rules may change, including at short notice. Since 2 June movement to and from the Emirate of Abu Dhabi has been restricted although movement within the Emirate of Abu Dhabi is allowed. You will need to have received a negative a PCR COVID-19 test result within 48 hours prior to entering the Emirate of Abu Dhabi by land from elsewhere in the country. While most shops, restaurants and supermarkets, and some tourist, cultural and leisure attractions and religious establishments are open, there are restrictions and requirements in place to help contain the disease. Social distancing and the wearing of face masks is mandatory when away from your home. This also applies to visitors staying in hotels when they are not in their room. All schools in the UAE are now closed for the remainder of this academic year. Many events have been cancelled.
United Arab Emirates ABU DHABI, 22nd July, 2020 (WAM) — The UAE has announced that COVID-19 test will be mandatory for all inbound and transit passengers, including Emiratis, residents, and tourists, arriving via the country’s airports, irrespective of the countries they are coming from.
The decision to apply prior testing on all those coming to the country shall be applied as of 1st August without impingement on the mandatory testing measures that travellers have to follow upon arrival at the country’s airports.
According to a joint statement by the National Crisis and Emergency Management Authority, NCEMA, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, MOFAIC, all passengers travelling thru the country’s airports to the EU countries and the UK, as well as other countries that require PCR test, have to get tested prior to boarding their respective planes.
The announcement is in line with the country’s efforts to protect the health and safety of its citizens and residents and reduce the spread of coronavirus.
Children under the age of 12 and those with severe and moderate disabilities will be exempted from the test requirement, which has 96 hours of validity from the date of testing.
NCEMA and MoFAIC highlighted the necessity for all airlines operating in the UAE to comply with these requirements.
United Arab Emirates Dubai hotels set to reopen for foreign visitors on Tuesday, 7 July (Reuters, 07.07.2020). The UAE Civil Aviation Authority (GCCA) suspends flights from Pakistan effective Monday 29 June. (Simple Flying, 29.06.2020)
*****
International restrictions:
Starting June 15, Emirates Airlines recommenced passenger flights.
Transiting passengers through a UAE airport to another destination, will need to check with the carrier before travelling.
UAE residents can now return to the UAE and visitors can go to Dubai. Some foreign residents, including British Nationals, are being allowed to return to the UAE based on criteria set by the UAE authorities. Residents who wish to return to the UAE, apart from Dubai, will have to get approval from the UAE authorities and should continue to apply online on the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship website. This website is not always available from Microsoft Internet Explorer so you should use another web browser such as. Google Chrome or Firefox. From 22 June there is a separate process for Dubai residents which is outlined below.Applications will be assessed by the UAE authorities based on their own criteria and, if approved, you will be issued with a unique reference number. The government of Dubai announced new procedures on 21 June for returning residents. Dubai residents overseas will be able to return to the Dubai from 22 June and Dubai residents within Dubai will be able to travel overseas from 23 June. Further information about what returning residents need to do before they travel and what will happen on arrival in Dubai is available on the Government of Dubai website including information about testing on arrival and quarantine.Dubai Residents must apply for a permit to return on the Dubai Government General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs website. Before they fly returning residents will also be required to complete a Health Declaration Form and a Quarantine Form. Both forms need to be printed, completed and handed over to Dubai Health Authority staff on arrival. Visitors will be able to travel to Dubai from 7 July. Further information about what visitors need to do before they travel and what will happen on arrival in Dubai is available on the Government of Dubai website including information about testing on arrival and quarantine.
*****
Internal restrictions:
Abu Dhabi government extends ban on movement in, out of emirate and cities until29 June. (The National, 22.06.2020)
Coronavirus cases continue to be recorded in the UAE and public health measures are in place in response to the outbreak. These can vary between Emirates and the ease of movement between regions is affected. The local rules may change, including at short notice. You should check them carefully before you travel and while you are here, and ensure you comply.You should comply with any additional measures put in place by the local authorities. The UAE authorities have stated that any violation of instructions and procedures put in place to limit the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) will be treated as a crime punishable by law. Since 2 June movement to and from the Emirate of Abu Dhabi has been restricted although movement within the Emirate of Abu Dhabi is allowed.To enter Abu Dhabi, individuals must presentation a COVID test conducted in the last 48 hours from an approved facility or schedule an appointment for a laser blood test. These regulations may change. While most shops, restaurants and supermarkets, and some cultural and leisure attractions and religious establishments are open, there are restrictions and requirements in place to help contain the disease. Tourist and cultural sites have begun reopening with additional safety measures in place including social distancing and the wearing of face masks. All schools in the UAE are now closed for the remainder of this academic year. Many events have been cancelled. If you are planning to attend a specific event in the UAE, check with the organisers.
United Arab Emirates The United Arab Emirates’ General Civil Aviation Authority (GCCA) announced yesterday that it would temporarily suspend flights from Pakistan in light of its worsening COVID-19 situation. This suspension, effective Monday 29 June, will stand until a laboratory is set up for COVID-19 tests. (Simple Flying, 29.06.2020)
*****
International restrictions:
Starting June 15, Emirates Airlines recommenced passenger flights.
Transiting passengers through a UAE airport to another destination, will need to check with the carrier before travelling.
UAE residents can now return to the UAE. The UAE confirmed that residency visa, entry permits and Emirates IDs expiring after March 1, 2020 will automatically be extended with no fees until the end of 2020. The extension applies to residency visa holders that are both in the UAE and outside of the UAE.
Visitors will be able to travel to Dubai from 7 July. Further information about what visitors need to do before they travel and what will happen on arrival in Dubai is available on the Government of Dubai website [https://mediaoffice.ae/en/news/2020/June/21-06/Supreme-Committee-of-Crisis-and-Disaster-Management-announces-new-air-travel-protocols] including information about testing on arrival and quarantine. Visitors must have international health insurance before travelling and must show that they have had a negative PCR Covid-19 test a maximum of four days before their departure date. If they do not have a test result or are showing symptoms of Covid-19, they will be tested at Dubai airport. All visitors to Dubai must adhere to all public health measures issued by the Dubai authorities including any requirements to quarantine. Before visitors fly to Dubai, they will also be required to complete a Health Declaration Form [https://c.ekstatic.net/ecl/documents/health-declaration-e-form.pdf] and a Quarantine Form [https://c.ekstatic.net/ecl/documents/dubai-arrivals-quarantine-procedure-declaration-form.pdf]. Both forms need to be printed, completed and handed over to Dubai Health Authority staff on arrival. Visitors to Dubai will also have to register their details on the Covid-19 DXB App.
Public health requirements for humanitarian flighs (please copy and paste link into your browser): https://humanitarianbooking.wfp.org/en/wfp-aviation/
*****
Internal restrictions:
Abu Dhabi government extends ban on movement in, out of emirate and cities until29 June. (The National, 22.06.2020)
The Government of the UAE has implemented measures to limit the spread of COVID-19, including enhanced screening and quarantine measures. Schools and universities are closed for the remainder of the academic year. Sporting events, festivals, and large gatherings have been banned. Religious services have also been suspended. Grocery stores, pharmacies, and gas stations remain open. The UAE government is relaxing some restrictions at some malls, markets, and other businesses. Individuals should continue to practice vigilance and wear masks and gloves, while practicing appropriate social distancing. UAE health authorities are urging all returned travelers to the UAE to practice self-quarantine for at least 14 days and are also urging all residents to stay home. The Ministry of Interior and National Emergency and the Crisis and Disasters Management Authority urged UAE citizens, residents, and visitors to limit trips outside the home except for essential movement. Visit the UAE Ministry of Health COVID-19 website for updated information [https://www.mohap.gov.ae/en/AwarenessCenter/Pages/COVID-19.aspx]
The Abu Dhabi Emergency and Crisis Committee for the COVID-19 pandemic announced a ban on the movement entering and exiting the emirate and between its regions (Abu Dhabi, Al Ain & Al Dhafra) starting Tuesday June 2. On June 15, they announced the ban would continue for a third week, with the possibility of an extension. Abu Dhabi’s curfew from 10 pm-6 am is still in effect. On June 17, they announced citizens and residents may leave Abu Dhabi without a permit, but a permit must be obtained to re-enter. Individuals may apply for a moving permit to leave during curfew hours or to re-enter Abu Dhabi.Additionally, the Dubai government announced business activities will continue to gradually reopen, with social distancing guidelines and mandatory use of masks, including while outdoors, still in effect. For more information on movement restrictions in Abu Dhabi and Dubai [https://www.thenational.ae/uae/health/coronavirus-restrictions-what-dubai-and-abu-dhabi-residents-can-and-can-t-do-1.1024854]. On May 18, the UAE Attorney General announced that individuals failing to follow rules and regulations to curb the spread of COVID-19 will face additional fines varying from 1000-100,000 Emirati dirhams.[
United Arab Emirates *****
International restrictions:
Starting June 15, Emirates Airlines recommenced passenger flights.
Transiting passengers through a UAE airport to another destination, will need to check with the carrier before travelling.
UAE residents can now return to the UAE. The UAE confirmed that residency visa, entry permits and Emirates IDs expiring after March 1, 2020 will automatically be extended with no fees until the end of 2020. The extension applies to residency visa holders that are both in the UAE and outside of the UAE.
Visitors will be able to travel to Dubai from 7 July. Further information about what visitors need to do before they travel and what will happen on arrival in Dubai is available on the Government of Dubai website [https://mediaoffice.ae/en/news/2020/June/21-06/Supreme-Committee-of-Crisis-and-Disaster-Management-announces-new-air-travel-protocols] including information about testing on arrival and quarantine. Visitors must have international health insurance before travelling and must show that they have had a negative PCR Covid-19 test a maximum of four days before their departure date. If they do not have a test result or are showing symptoms of Covid-19, they will be tested at Dubai airport. All visitors to Dubai must adhere to all public health measures issued by the Dubai authorities including any requirements to quarantine. Before visitors fly to Dubai, they will also be required to complete a Health Declaration Form [https://c.ekstatic.net/ecl/documents/health-declaration-e-form.pdf] and a Quarantine Form [https://c.ekstatic.net/ecl/documents/dubai-arrivals-quarantine-procedure-declaration-form.pdf]. Both forms need to be printed, completed and handed over to Dubai Health Authority staff on arrival. Visitors to Dubai will also have to register their details on the Covid-19 DXB App.
Public health requirements for humanitarian flighs (please copy and paste link into your browser): https://humanitarianbooking.wfp.org/en/wfp-aviation/
*****
Internal restrictions:
Abu Dhabi government extends ban on movement in, out of emirate and cities until29 June. (The National, 22.06.2020)
The Government of the UAE has implemented measures to limit the spread of COVID-19, including enhanced screening and quarantine measures. Schools and universities are closed for the remainder of the academic year. Sporting events, festivals, and large gatherings have been banned. Religious services have also been suspended. Grocery stores, pharmacies, and gas stations remain open. The UAE government is relaxing some restrictions at some malls, markets, and other businesses. Individuals should continue to practice vigilance and wear masks and gloves, while practicing appropriate social distancing. UAE health authorities are urging all returned travelers to the UAE to practice self-quarantine for at least 14 days and are also urging all residents to stay home. The Ministry of Interior and National Emergency and the Crisis and Disasters Management Authority urged UAE citizens, residents, and visitors to limit trips outside the home except for essential movement. Visit the UAE Ministry of Health COVID-19 website for updated information [https://www.mohap.gov.ae/en/AwarenessCenter/Pages/COVID-19.aspx]
The Abu Dhabi Emergency and Crisis Committee for the COVID-19 pandemic announced a ban on the movement entering and exiting the emirate and between its regions (Abu Dhabi, Al Ain & Al Dhafra) starting Tuesday June 2. On June 15, they announced the ban would continue for a third week, with the possibility of an extension. Abu Dhabi’s curfew from 10 pm-6 am is still in effect. On June 17, they announced citizens and residents may leave Abu Dhabi without a permit, but a permit must be obtained to re-enter. Individuals may apply for a moving permit to leave during curfew hours or to re-enter Abu Dhabi.Additionally, the Dubai government announced business activities will continue to gradually reopen, with social distancing guidelines and mandatory use of masks, including while outdoors, still in effect. For more information on movement restrictions in Abu Dhabi and Dubai [https://www.thenational.ae/uae/health/coronavirus-restrictions-what-dubai-and-abu-dhabi-residents-can-and-can-t-do-1.1024854]. On May 18, the UAE Attorney General announced that individuals failing to follow rules and regulations to curb the spread of COVID-19 will face additional fines varying from 1000-100,000 Emirati dirhams.[
United Arab Emirates 1. Flights to the United Arab Emirates are suspended.
– This does not apply to the following:
– aircraft operated for the purpose of evacuation (this Safety Decision does not alleviate the need for obtaining necessary authorisation from UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation);
– UAE registered aircraft that are out of base on 24 March 2020 23:59 Local Time will be allowed to return to base carrying only UAE nationals and operator’s crewmembers;
– over-flights.
2. All Evacuation flights must have PAX APP data and Crew APP data; all ferry flights must have crew APP data.
3. Residents of United Arab Emirates:
– must have a Resident Entry Permit obtained before departure at http://Smartservice.ica.gov.ae , and
– are subject to medical screening and quarantine.
4. A completed self-declaration health form must be presented upon arrival at Dubai (DXB).
5. Effective 7 July 2020: passengers traveling as tourist are allowed to enter Dubai (DXB). They must have:
– a medical certificate with a negative Coronavirus (COVID-19) test result issued at most 96 hours before departure, and
– a health insurance.
*****
International restrictions:
All international air traffic remains suspended until further notice; the ban also applies to transit flights via Abu Dhabi and Dubai. However, UAE-based air carriers are operating a limited number of inbound and outbound flights mainly to repatriate UAE nationals and foreign residents.
National carrier Etihad Airways will resume a limited number of inbound flights to Abu Dhabi from 9 May exclusively for UAE citizens and foreign nationals holding valid UAE residency permits. Travellers must apply for an ICA approval number via the UAE Twajudi Resident service, which can be accessed on the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, before booking their tickets. This unique number will allow travellers to make bookings exclusively through Etihad’s contact centre. All arriving passengers will be required to self-quarantine for 14 days.
Public health requirements for humanitarian flighs (please copy and paste link into your browser): https://humanitarianbooking.wfp.org/en/wfp-aviation/
*****Entry restrictions:
The authorities implemented entry restrictions for non-UAE citizens, including foreign nationals holding valid residency visas who were currently out of the country and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) citizens. While local media reports indicate that some exceptions have been made on a case-by-case basis since the restrictions came into effect, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation has requested such individuals to take the following steps:
Travellers who are currently in their country of origin should contact the UAE diplomatic mission in their respective country for the required support and to streamline their return back to the UAE.
Travellers who are currently outside the UAE for business should contact their employers in the UAE, as well as the UAE diplomatic mission in their host countries for the required support and to facilitate their return back to the UAE.
Travellers who are on vacation should contact the UAE diplomatic mission in their host countries, for the required support to facilitate their return back to the UAE.
Officials at Abu Dhabi airport have said that all flights are operating via the facility’s Terminal 1 until further notice.
*****
Internal restrictions:
Abu Dhabi government extends ban on movement in, out of emirate and cities until29 June. (The National, 22.06.2020)
Individuals are required to wear masks and observe social distancing when in public. Infractions are punishable via legal action.
Officials had earlier closed beaches, cinemas, public parks and swimming pools until further notice – this remains in place.
Residency visas and Emirates ID to be automatically extended for three months for free (only for those whose visa and ID expired from 1 March).
In the Dubai emirate, a 24 hour remain-at-home directive has been rescinded. Since 24 April, this has now been relaxed to coincide with Ramadan – residents are now permitted to conduct movement between 06.00 and 22.00 without a permit; restrictions on movement between 22.00 and 06.00 remain in force and the only exceptions are for medical emergencies. Some metro service is due to recommence from 29 April. Restaurants, shopping malls and other retail outlets are allowed to open between 06.00 and 22.00.
Other emirates seemingly remain under the initial 20.00 to 06.00 curfew regime. Trips to purchase food and medication and essential workers are exempt. In Abu Dhabi a movement permit is required to travel during the sterilisation hours.
From 20 May, the timing for the national sterilisation programme changed to 20.00-06.00, during which all individuals are required to stay indoor. The opening hours of shopping malls and retail shops will be 09.00-19.00.
Fines may be issued for those suspected of spreading information about COVID-19 which contradicts official statements, as well as neglecting social distancing requirements, driving with more than three people in a vehicle, and participating in social gatherings.
*****
Relaxation of restrictions:
Travel is now allowed within the emirate’s regions, but crossing into the emirate from Dubai is still not permitted without first obtaining a permit.
Government announces gradual reopening of business activities, easing of movement restrictions in Dubai from 27 May (Reuters, 25.05.2020)
United Arab Emirates The Supreme Committee for Crisis and Disaster Management has allowed Dubai to accept foreign tourists since July 7, the emirate government said.
Before departure, passengers will need to fill out a health form and take out medical insurance.
One of the conditions of the trip is the availability of a certificate of PCR testing for coronavirus with a negative result with a maximum validity of not more than 96 hours.
If the tourist cannot provide such a certificate upon arrival, he will be sent to take tests at the Dubai airport. The cost of this procedure is not specified.
All arrivals at the airport will undergo a temperature test. If any of the passengers find symptoms, the airport management company will be able to retest even with a valid certificate.
If a tourist finds COVID-19, he must install the COVID-19 DXB application and spend 14 days in isolation at home or in the premises provided by the government, for which accommodation will have to be paid.
The committee also allowed foreigners with the right to reside in Dubai from June 22, and citizens and foreigners with the right to reside in any country that permits travel from Dubai from June 23 (avianews.com).
United Arab Emirates Abu Dhabi eases movement restrictions to allow citizens, residents to leave the emirate freely (Reuters, 16.06.2020). Abu Dhabi government extends ban on movement in, out of emirate and cities by one more week (Reuters, 15.06.2020). Arabian Business News reported on Tuesday 9 June that authorities in United Arab Emirates (UAE) are preparing to fully reopen the country’s borders. (Media, 09.06.2020)
Government allows opening of airports for limited flights (Khaleej Times, 03.06.2020).
1. Flights to the United Arab Emirates are suspended.
– This does not apply to the following:
– aircraft operated for the purpose of evacuation (this Safety Decision does not alleviate the need for obtaining necessary authorisation from UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation);
– UAE registered aircraft that are out of base on 24 March 2020 23:59 Local Time will be allowed to return to base carrying only UAE nationals and operator’s crewmembers;
– over-flights.
2. All Evacuation flights must have PAX APP data and Crew APP data; all ferry flights must have crew APP data.
3. Residents of United Arab Emirates:
– must have a Resident Entry Permit obtained before departure at http://Smartservice.ica.gov.ae , and
– are subject to medical screening and quarantine.
4. A completed self-declaration health form must be presented upon arrival at Dubai (DXB).
*****
International restrictions:
All international air traffic remains suspended until further notice; the ban also applies to transit flights via Abu Dhabi and Dubai. However, UAE-based air carriers are operating a limited number of inbound and outbound flights mainly to repatriate UAE nationals and foreign residents.
National carrier Etihad Airways will resume a limited number of inbound flights to Abu Dhabi from 9 May exclusively for UAE citizens and foreign nationals holding valid UAE residency permits. Travellers must apply for an ICA approval number via the UAE Twajudi Resident service, which can be accessed on the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, before booking their tickets. This unique number will allow travellers to make bookings exclusively through Etihad’s contact centre. All arriving passengers will be required to self-quarantine for 14 days.
Public health requirements for humanitarian flighs [https://humanitarianbooking.wfp.org/en/wfp-aviation/]
*****Entry restrictions:
The authorities implemented entry restrictions for non-UAE citizens, including foreign nationals holding valid residency visas who were currently out of the country and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) citizens. While local media reports indicate that some exceptions have been made on a case-by-case basis since the restrictions came into effect, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation has requested such individuals to take the following steps:
Travellers who are currently in their country of origin should contact the UAE diplomatic mission in their respective country for the required support and to streamline their return back to the UAE.
Travellers who are currently outside the UAE for business should contact their employers in the UAE, as well as the UAE diplomatic mission in their host countries for the required support and to facilitate their return back to the UAE.
Travellers who are on vacation should contact the UAE diplomatic mission in their host countries, for the required support to facilitate their return back to the UAE.
Officials at Abu Dhabi airport have said that all flights are operating via the facility’s Terminal 1 until further notice.
*****
Internal restrictions:
Abu Dhabi government extends ban on movement in, out of emirate and cities by one week (Reuters, 08.06.2020)
Individuals are required to wear masks and observe social distancing when in public. Infractions are punishable via legal action.
Officials had earlier closed beaches, cinemas, public parks and swimming pools until further notice – this remains in place.
Residency visas and Emirates ID to be automatically extended for three months for free (only for those whose visa and ID expired from 1 March).
In the Dubai emirate, a 24 hour remain-at-home directive has been rescinded. Since 24 April, this has now been relaxed to coincide with Ramadan – residents are now permitted to conduct movement between 06.00 and 22.00 without a permit; restrictions on movement between 22.00 and 06.00 remain in force and the only exceptions are for medical emergencies. Some metro service is due to recommence from 29 April. Restaurants, shopping malls and other retail outlets are allowed to open between 06.00 and 22.00.
Other emirates seemingly remain under the initial 20.00 to 06.00 curfew regime, including Abu Dhabi. Trips to purchase food and medication and essential workers are exempt. In Abu Dhabi a movement permit is required to travel during the sterilisation hours.
From 20 May, the timing for the national sterilisation programme changed to 20.00-06.00, during which all individuals are required to stay indoor. The opening hours of shopping malls and retail shops will be 09.00-19.00.
On Sunday, May 31, authorities in Abu Dhabi announced that travel in and out of the emirate would be suspended from Tuesday, June 2, as a measure to limit the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. Travel between the emirate’s individual regions – Abu Dhabi city, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra – will also be suspended, although travel within the regions themselves is to remain permitted. The new measure will be in force for a week, until Tuesday, June 9. Special permits will be available for essential workers, the transport of essential goods, and for medical visits.
Fines may be issued for those suspected of spreading information about COVID-19 which contradicts official statements, as well as neglecting social distancing requirements, driving with more than three people in a vehicle, and participating in social gatherings.
*****
Relaxation of restrictions:
Government announces gradual reopening of business activities, easing of movement restrictions in Dubai from 27 May (Reuters, 25.05.2020)
United Arab Emirates Arabian Business News reported on Tuesday 9 June that authorities in United Arab Emirates (UAE) are preparing to fully reopen the country’s borders. (Media, 09.06.2020)
Government allows opening of airports for limited flights (Khaleej Times, 03.06.2020).
1. Flights to the United Arab Emirates are suspended.
– This does not apply to the following:
– aircraft operated for the purpose of evacuation (this Safety Decision does not alleviate the need for obtaining necessary authorisation from UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation);
– UAE registered aircraft that are out of base on 24 March 2020 23:59 Local Time will be allowed to return to base carrying only UAE nationals and operator’s crewmembers;
– over-flights.
2. All Evacuation flights must have PAX APP data and Crew APP data; all ferry flights must have crew APP data.
3. A completed self-declaration health form must be presented upon arrival at Dubai (DXB).
International restrictions:
All international air traffic remains suspended until further notice; the ban also applies to transit flights via Abu Dhabi and Dubai. However, UAE-based air carriers are operating a limited number of inbound and outbound flights mainly to repatriate UAE nationals and foreign residents.
National carrier Etihad Airways will resume a limited number of inbound flights to Abu Dhabi from 9 May exclusively for UAE citizens and foreign nationals holding valid UAE residency permits. Travellers must apply for an ICA approval number via the UAE Twajudi Resident service, which can be accessed on the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, before booking their tickets. This unique number will allow travellers to make bookings exclusively through Etihad’s contact centre. All arriving passengers will be required to self-quarantine for 14 days.
Public health requirements for humanitarian flighs [https://humanitarianbooking.wfp.org/en/wfp-aviation/]
Entry restrictions:
The authorities implemented entry restrictions for non-UAE citizens, including foreign nationals holding valid residency visas who were currently out of the country and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) citizens. While local media reports indicate that some exceptions have been made on a case-by-case basis since the restrictions came into effect, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation has requested such individuals to take the following steps:
Travellers who are currently in their country of origin should contact the UAE diplomatic mission in their respective country for the required support and to streamline their return back to the UAE.
Travellers who are currently outside the UAE for business should contact their employers in the UAE, as well as the UAE diplomatic mission in their host countries for the required support and to facilitate their return back to the UAE.
Travellers who are on vacation should contact the UAE diplomatic mission in their host countries, for the required support to facilitate their return back to the UAE.
Officials at Abu Dhabi airport have said that all flights are operating via the facility’s Terminal 1 until further notice.
Flight suspensions:
Dubai-based airline Emirates will operate outbound flights to London Heathrow (United Kingdom), Frankfurt (Germany), Paris (France), Milan (Italy), Madrid (Spain), Chicago (United States of America), Toronto (Canada), Sydney and Melbourne (Australia) from 21 May.
The Dubai-based carrier FlyDubai and Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways have also suspended or modified routes to and from UAE airports.
Internal restrictions:
Abu Dhabi government extends ban on movement in, out of emirate and cities by one week (Reuters, 08.06.2020)
Individuals are required to wear masks and observe social distancing when in public. Infractions are punishable via legal action.
Officials had earlier closed beaches, cinemas, public parks and swimming pools until further notice – this remains in place.
Residency visas and Emirates ID to be automatically extended for three months for free (only for those whose visa and ID expired from 1 March).
In the Dubai emirate, a 24 hour remain-at-home directive has been rescinded. Since 24 April, this has now been relaxed to coincide with Ramadan – residents are now permitted to conduct movement between 06.00 and 22.00 without a permit; restrictions on movement between 22.00 and 06.00 remain in force and the only exceptions are for medical emergencies. Some metro service is due to recommence from 29 April. Restaurants, shopping malls and other retail outlets are allowed to open between 06.00 and 22.00.
Other emirates seemingly remain under the initial 20.00 to 06.00 curfew regime, including Abu Dhabi. Trips to purchase food and medication and essential workers are exempt. In Abu Dhabi a movement permit is required to travel during the sterilisation hours.
From 20 May, the timing for the national sterilisation programme changed to 20.00-06.00, during which all individuals are required to stay indoor. The opening hours of shopping malls and retail shops will be 09.00-19.00.
On Sunday, May 31, authorities in Abu Dhabi announced that travel in and out of the emirate would be suspended from Tuesday, June 2, as a measure to limit the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. Travel between the emirate’s individual regions – Abu Dhabi city, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra – will also be suspended, although travel within the regions themselves is to remain permitted. The new measure will be in force for a week, until Tuesday, June 9. Special permits will be available for essential workers, the transport of essential goods, and for medical visits.
Fines may be issued for those suspected of spreading information about COVID-19 which contradicts official statements, as well as neglecting social distancing requirements, driving with more than three people in a vehicle, and participating in social gatherings.
Relaxation of restrictions:
Government announces gradual reopening of business activities, easing of movement restrictions in Dubai from 27 May (Reuters, 25.05.2020)
United Arab Emirates Abu Dhabi government announces one-week ban on traffic to, between main cities from 2 June (Reuters, 31.05.2020)
International restrictions:
All international air traffic remains suspended until further notice; the ban also applies to transit flights via Abu Dhabi and Dubai. However, UAE-based air carriers are operating a limited number of inbound and outbound flights mainly to repatriate UAE nationals and foreign residents.
National carrier Etihad Airways will resume a limited number of inbound flights to Abu Dhabi from 9 May exclusively for UAE citizens and foreign nationals holding valid UAE residency permits. Travellers must apply for an ICA approval number via the UAE Twajudi Resident service, which can be accessed on the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, before booking their tickets. This unique number will allow travellers to make bookings exclusively through Etihad’s contact centre. All arriving passengers will be required to self-quarantine for 14 days.
Public health requirements for humanitarian flighs [https://humanitarianbooking.wfp.org/en/wfp-aviation/]
Entry restrictions:
The authorities implemented entry restrictions for non-UAE citizens, including foreign nationals holding valid residency visas who were currently out of the country and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) citizens. While local media reports indicate that some exceptions have been made on a case-by-case basis since the restrictions came into effect, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation has requested such individuals to take the following steps:
Travellers who are currently in their country of origin should contact the UAE diplomatic mission in their respective country for the required support and to streamline their return back to the UAE.
Travellers who are currently outside the UAE for business should contact their employers in the UAE, as well as the UAE diplomatic mission in their host countries for the required support and to facilitate their return back to the UAE.
Travellers who are on vacation should contact the UAE diplomatic mission in their host countries, for the required support to facilitate their return back to the UAE.
Officials at Abu Dhabi airport have said that all flights are operating via the facility’s Terminal 1 until further notice.
Flight suspensions:
Dubai-based airline Emirates will operate outbound flights to London Heathrow (United Kingdom), Frankfurt (Germany), Paris (France), Milan (Italy), Madrid (Spain), Chicago (United States of America), Toronto (Canada), Sydney and Melbourne (Australia) from 21 May.
The Dubai-based carrier FlyDubai and Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways have also suspended or modified routes to and from UAE airports.
Internal restrictions:
Individuals are required to wear masks and observe social distancing when in public. Infractions are punishable via legal action.
Officials had earlier closed beaches, cinemas, public parks and swimming pools until further notice – this remains in place.
Residency visas and Emirates ID to be automatically extended for three months for free (only for those whose visa and ID expired from 1 March).
In the Dubai emirate, a 24 hour remain-at-home directive has been rescinded. Since 24 April, this has now been relaxed to coincide with Ramadan – residents are now permitted to conduct movement between 06.00 and 22.00 without a permit; restrictions on movement between 22.00 and 06.00 remain in force and the only exceptions are for medical emergencies. Some metro service is due to recommence from 29 April. Restaurants, shopping malls and other retail outlets are allowed to open between 06.00 and 22.00.
Other emirates seemingly remain under the initial 20.00 to 06.00 curfew regime, including Abu Dhabi. Trips to purchase food and medication and essential workers are exempt. In Abu Dhabi a movement permit is required to travel during the sterilisation hours.
From 20 May, the timing for the national sterilisation programme changed to 20.00-06.00, during which all individuals are required to stay indoor. The opening hours of shopping malls and retail shops will be 09.00-19.00.
On Sunday, May 31, authorities in Abu Dhabi announced that travel in and out of the emirate would be suspended from Tuesday, June 2, as a measure to limit the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. Travel between the emirate’s individual regions – Abu Dhabi city, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra – will also be suspended, although travel within the regions themselves is to remain permitted. The new measure will be in force for a week, until Tuesday, June 9. Special permits will be available for essential workers, the transport of essential goods, and for medical visits.
Fines may be issued for those suspected of spreading information about COVID-19 which contradicts official statements, as well as neglecting social distancing requirements, driving with more than three people in a vehicle, and participating in social gatherings.
Relaxation of restrictions:
Government announces gradual reopening of business activities, easing of movement restrictions in Dubai from 27 May (Reuters, 25.05.2020)
United Arab Emirates
International restrictions:
All international air traffic remains suspended until further notice; the ban also applies to transit flights via Abu Dhabi and Dubai. However, UAE-based air carriers are operating a limited number of inbound and outbound flights mainly to repatriate UAE nationals and foreign residents. National carrier Etihad Airways will resume a limited number of inbound flights to Abu Dhabi from 9 May exclusively for UAE citizens and foreign nationals holding valid UAE residency permits. Travellers must apply for an ICA approval number via the UAE Twajudi Resident service, which can be accessed on the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, before booking their tickets. This unique number will allow travellers to make bookings exclusively through Etihad’s contact centre. All arriving passengers will be required to self-quarantine for 14 days. Entry restrictions: The authorities implemented entry restrictions for non-UAE citizens, including foreign nationals holding valid residency visas who were currently out of the country and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) citizens. While local media reports indicate that some exceptions have been made on a case-by-case basis since the restrictions came into effect, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation has requested such individuals to take the following steps: Travellers who are currently in their country of origin should contact the UAE diplomatic mission in their respective country for the required support and to streamline their return back to the UAE. Travellers who are currently outside the UAE for business should contact their employers in the UAE, as well as the UAE diplomatic mission in their host countries for the required support and to facilitate their return back to the UAE. Travellers who are on vacation should contact the UAE diplomatic mission in their host countries, for the required support to facilitate their return back to the UAE. Officials at Abu Dhabi airport have said that all flights are operating via the facility’s Terminal 1 until further notice. Flight suspensions: Dubai-based airline Emirates will operate outbound flights to London Heathrow (United Kingdom), Frankfurt (Germany), Paris (France), Milan (Italy), Madrid (Spain), Chicago (United States of America), Toronto (Canada), Sydney and Melbourne (Australia) from 21 May. The Dubai-based carrier FlyDubai and Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways have also suspended or modified routes to and from UAE airports. Other measures: Individuals are required to wear masks and observe social distancing when in public. Infractions are punishable via legal action. Officials had earlier closed beaches, cinemas, public parks and swimming pools until further notice – this remains in place. Residency visas and Emirates ID to be automatically extended for three months for free (only for those whose visa and ID expired from 1 March). In the Dubai emirate, a 24 hour remain-at-home directive has been rescinded. Since 24 April, this has now been relaxed to coincide with Ramadan – residents are now permitted to conduct movement between 06.00 and 22.00 without a permit; restrictions on movement between 22.00 and 06.00 remain in force and the only exceptions are for medical emergencies. Some metro service is due to recommence from 29 April. Restaurants, shopping malls and other retail outlets are allowed to open between 06.00 and 22.00. Other emirates seemingly remain under the initial 20.00 to 06.00 curfew regime, including Abu Dhabi. Trips to purchase food and medication and essential workers are exempt. In Abu Dhabi a movement permit is required to travel during the sterilisation hours (individuals can apply here). However, the above timing will change from 20 May, when the timing for the national sterilisation programme will change to 20.00-06.00, during which all individuals are required to stay indoor. The opening hours of shopping malls and retail shops will be 09.00-19.00. Blue-collar workers in Abu Dhabi are not allowed to leave the emirate until further notice; their internal movement is restricted to Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and Al Dhafra. In addition, workers from other emirates are not allowed to enter into Abu Dhabi. Exceptions may apply to movement of workers operating in essential sectors and those with valid flight tickets on their way to the airport of departure. Any citizen/resident benefiting from repatriation flight will observe a compulsory 14-day home quarantine.
Fines may be issued for those suspected of spreading information about COVID-19 which contradicts official statements, as well as neglecting social distancing requirements, driving with more than three people in a vehicle, and participating in social gatherings.
Relaxation of restrictions:
Government announces gradual reopening of business activities, easing of movement restrictions in Dubai from 27 May (Reuters, 25.05.2020)
United Arab Emirates Government announces gradual reopening of business activities, easing of movement restrictions in Dubai from 27 May (Reuters, 25.05.2020)
International restrictions:
All international air traffic remains suspended until further notice; the ban also applies to transit flights via Abu Dhabi and Dubai. However, UAE-based air carriers are operating a limited number of inbound and outbound flights mainly to repatriate UAE nationals and foreign residents. National carrier Etihad Airways will resume a limited number of inbound flights to Abu Dhabi from 9 May exclusively for UAE citizens and foreign nationals holding valid UAE residency permits. Travellers must apply for an ICA approval number via the UAE Twajudi Resident service, which can be accessed on the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, before booking their tickets. This unique number will allow travellers to make bookings exclusively through Etihad’s contact centre. All arriving passengers will be required to self-quarantine for 14 days. Entry restrictions The authorities implemented entry restrictions for non-UAE citizens, including foreign nationals holding valid residency visas who were currently out of the country and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) citizens. While local media reports indicate that some exceptions have been made on a case-by-case basis since the restrictions came into effect, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation has requested such individuals to take the following steps: Travellers who are currently in their country of origin should contact the UAE diplomatic mission in their respective country for the required support and to streamline their return back to the UAE. Travellers who are currently outside the UAE for business should contact their employers in the UAE, as well as the UAE diplomatic mission in their host countries for the required support and to facilitate their return back to the UAE. Travellers who are on vacation should contact the UAE diplomatic mission in their host countries, for the required support to facilitate their return back to the UAE. Officials at Abu Dhabi airport have said that all flights are operating via the facility’s Terminal 1 until further notice. Flight suspensions Dubai-based airline Emirates will operate outbound flights to London Heathrow (United Kingdom), Frankfurt (Germany), Paris (France), Milan (Italy), Madrid (Spain), Chicago (United States of America), Toronto (Canada), Sydney and Melbourne (Australia) from 21 May. The Dubai-based carrier FlyDubai and Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways have also suspended or modified routes to and from UAE airports. Other measures Individuals are required to wear masks and observe social distancing when in public. Infractions are punishable via legal action. Officials had earlier closed beaches, cinemas, public parks and swimming pools until further notice – this remains in place. Residency visas and Emirates ID to be automatically extended for three months for free (only for those whose visa and ID expired from 1 March). In the Dubai emirate, a 24 hour remain-at-home directive has been rescinded. Since 24 April, this has now been relaxed to coincide with Ramadan – residents are now permitted to conduct movement between 06.00 and 22.00 without a permit; restrictions on movement between 22.00 and 06.00 remain in force and the only exceptions are for medical emergencies. Some metro service is due to recommence from 29 April. Restaurants, shopping malls and other retail outlets are allowed to open between 06.00 and 22.00. Other emirates seemingly remain under the initial 20.00 to 06.00 curfew regime, including Abu Dhabi. Trips to purchase food and medication and essential workers are exempt. In Abu Dhabi a movement permit is required to travel during the sterilisation hours (individuals can apply here). However, the above timing will change from 20 May, when the timing for the national sterilisation programme will change to 20.00-06.00, during which all individuals are required to stay indoor. The opening hours of shopping malls and retail shops will be 09.00-19.00. Blue-collar workers in Abu Dhabi are not allowed to leave the emirate until further notice; their internal movement is restricted to Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and Al Dhafra. In addition, workers from other emirates are not allowed to enter into Abu Dhabi. Exceptions may apply to movement of workers operating in essential sectors and those with valid flight tickets on their way to the airport of departure. Any citizen/resident benefiting from repatriation flight will observe a compulsory 14-day home quarantine. Fines may be issued for those suspected of spreading information about COVID-19 which contradicts official statements, as well as neglecting social distancing requirements, driving with more than three people in a vehicle, and participating in social gatherings.
United Arab Emirates Flight suspensions: Dubai-based airline Emirates will operate outbound flights to London Heathrow (United Kingdom), Frankfurt (Germany), Paris (France), Milan (Italy), Madrid (Spain), Chicago (United States of America), Toronto (Canada), Sydney and Melbourne (Australia) from 21 May.
United Arab Emirates Dubai is aiming to reopen for travellers as early as July as it looks to gradually come out of a lockdown. (The National, 28.04.2020)
1. Flights to the United Arab Emirates are suspended.
– This does not apply to the following:
a) aircraft operated for the purpose of evacuation (this Safety Decision does not alleviate the need for obtaining necessary authorisation from UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation);
b) UAE registered aircraft that are out of base on 24 March 2020 23:59 Local Time will be allowed to return to base carrying only UAE nationals and operator’s crewmembers;
c) domestic flights;
d) over-flights.
2. All Evacuation flights must have PAX APP data and Crew APP data; all ferry flights must have crew APP data.
Officials at Abu Dhabi airport have said that all flights are operating via the facility’s Terminal 1 until further notice, following the closure of Terminal 2 on 16 March.
Internal restrictions:
In the Dubai emirate, a 24 hour remain-at-home directive has been rescinded. As of 24 April this has now been relaxed to coincide with Ramadan – residents are now permitted to conduct movement between 0.600 and 22.00 without a permit; restrictions on movement between 22.00 and 06.00 remain in force and the only exceptions are for medical emergencies. Metro is due to recommence from 26 April. Restaurants, shopping malls and other retail outlets are allowed to open between 06.00 and 22.00.
Individuals are prohibited from leaving their homes during the cleaning and disinfection programme, except for essential purposes or if they work in a vital sector, provided they obtain the necessary permissions. For essential sectors, companies must obtain permission from authorities. For personal movements, both vehicle and pedestrian, individuals must obtain movement permits through the official website. An individual may obtain a maximum two permits per day for emergencies, one permit every three days for purchasing food or medicines and one permit every five days for cash withdrawal from ATMs.
Metro, tram operations will be suspended from 5 April in Dubai. Buses will continue to operate as usual.
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