Emirati travellers flying to Dubai from anywhere in the world are now exempted from pre-flight Covid-19 tests, the emirate’s Supreme Committee of Crisis and Disaster Management said on Friday as it announced changes to travel protocols.
Dubai-bound UAE citizens will no longer have to undergo PCR tests in the country they are travelling from, regardless of the period of their stay. They will only be required to get the test done upon their arrival in the emirate, according to the revised guidelines rolled out as directed by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
For all other returning residents and inbound tourists, the PCR Covid-19 test remains a requirement prior to their departure for Dubai, the protocol stated.
Transit passengers from some countries or those headed for destinations where the test is mandatory should also get screened for the virus before flying to Dubai for a stopover.
For Emiratis, residents and tourists travelling overseas from Dubai, pre-departure PCR tests are needed only if their destination country requires them.
The Supreme Committee of Crisis and Disaster Management, headed by Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, said the new travel protocols are part of the regular process of revising and optimising precautionary measures based on the latest local, regional and international developments. The revisions are also aimed at streamlining travel procedures, without compromising on safety.
The amendments are based on the recommendations of entities fighting the pandemic on the front lines, including the Covid-19 Command and Control Centre and the Dubai Health Authority. A comprehensive assessment of the global situation was also taken into account. The protocols address the travel guidelines and requirements of different countries.
Source: Khaleej Times