The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way we travel significantly. In order to ensure the safety of travelers, Dubai has implemented new safety measures and regulations for those who are transiting through the country.
The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai has announced that all passengers travelling to Dubai are no longer required to present a COVID-19 vaccination certificate or negative PCR test results. However, this does not apply to transit passengers from certain countries, as they may still be required to show proof of vaccination or document a negative PCR test result at the time of entry into Dubai.
For those with stopover packages offered by airlines including Emirates, Qatar Airways and Etihad Airways, they must adhere to the same guidelines applicable to those entering/arriving in Dubai. This means that they must present either a valid Covid-19 vaccination certificate or a valid PCR test result taken within 96 hours prior to their arrival in the UAE.
Travellers with transit visas should note that they will only be granted permission if they meet two criteria – one is showing proof of Covid-19 vaccination or providing a valid PCR test report taken within 96 hours before arriving in the UAE; and two is obtaining an approval letter from GDRFA-Dubai or an authorized hotel for transit purposes. The visitor’s details have to be registered as part of this process prior to their arrival in Dubai.
Furthermore, tourists transiting through Dubai who do not hold an approved visa must obtain an approval letter from GDRFA-Dubai in addition to presenting proof of Covid-19 vaccination OR document a valid PCR test report taken within 96 hours before their arrival into the UAE along with their airline ticket confirmation page for verification purposes.
In terms of prerequisites, travellers over 12 years old should submit either a valid Covid-19 vaccine certificate issued by recognized authorities OR provide evidence/documentation that they have recovered from COVID-19 within six months prior to their visit. Those under 12 years old should provide PCR test results taken within 96 hours before arriving in the UAE and must also obtain an approval letter from GDRFA-Dubai or any authorized hotel for transit purposes.
Although there are several rules and regulations stipulated by GDFRA regarding travel into and out of Dubai during this pandemic period, it is important that all visitors make sure they comply with these requirements so as not risk any punitive action while travelling through the country on their journey abroad. Moreover, all travellers transiting through Dubai should check with their local embassy for up-to date information on any additional precautions needed prior to departure as well as upon arrival into the city itself.
