Kochi: In a major relief to the UAE residents held up in different countries, the UAE government has allowed them to return home from August 5. All those stranded in six countries and wanting to return home should strictly adhere to the Covid-19 protocol like testing and quarantine. The facility is for UAE residence visa holders from India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Nigeria and Uganda.
Meanwhile, the UAE authorities have introduced a number of measures to limit the spread of the virus, a government website said. The travellers should comply with additional screening measures put in place by the local authorities. The government has underscored the need to wear a facemask in public and follow social distancing requirements. Any violation of instructions and procedures put in place to limit the spread of COVID-19 will be criminal.
The UAE Government and the Government of Dubai have introduced international travel protocols. Those travelling to the UAE should consult official published guidelines and confirm requirements with the airline or travel provider. Quarantine and entry restrictions vary in different emirates and the travellers should familiarise themselves with requirements in the destination emirate, the website said.
Requirement for COVID-19 testing prior to travel
All passengers flying to Abu Dhabi, including transit passengers, should produce a Covid -19 negative result in the previous 72 hours.
All passengers travelling to Dubai must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test certificate from a test taken no more than 72 hours before departure. For passengers transiting through Dubai, a Covid-19 PCR test is only mandatory for those arriving from specified countries and/or if required by the destination country, it said. The passengers should double-check the requirements for COVID-19 testing with their airline prior to travel, it said.
