Dubai has become the latest nation to ease its entry requirements. The popular tourist destination has now removed its PCR test requirement for tourists, and they’ve also reduced various internal restrictions.
Although the U.A.E remained open throughout the pandemic—restrictions were often difficult for travelers.
The New Entry Requirements In The U.A.E
Fully vaccinated tourists no longer need a negative PCR test to enter the United Arab Emirates. Instead, fully vaccinated travelers only need to provide evidence of full vaccination, complete with a QR code.
This is excellent for many European travelers—including British tourists—who’ll no longer require any testing requirements in Dubai or when they return home. American travelers, however, still require testing for their return journey to the U.S.
PCR testing requirements will remain for unvaccinated travelers. They will need to provide a negative PCR test taken within 48 hours of departure or proof of recovery within 1 month. Most importantly, unvaccinated tourists can still enter the U.A.E. with some restrictions.
The New Internal Restrictions In The U.A.E
Most indoor venues—including restaurants, shops, and religious establishments—are open throughout Dubai and the rest of the country.
However, there are still restrictions in place to contain the spread of COVID-19, unlike most European nations, who’ve abandoned many COVID-19 restrictions now.
Masks will remain mandatory in all indoor places; this includes within hotels in Dubai. Masks are now optional in all outdoor areas. Dubai has removed social distancing in all popular tourism areas throughout the city.
However, close contacts of COVID-19 positive cases, who are no longer experiencing symptoms, no longer have to quarantine in Dubai.
In addition, restaurants have returned to full capacity for the first time since COVID-19 began.
Shisha cases, which are extremely popular for tourists and locals in Dubai, are now back to 100% capacity, yet smoking areas must allow for two square meters per person (according to U.A.E. law.)
The U.A.E. Green Pass will remain, even though vaccinated travelers can enter the nation.
The U.A.E. Green Pass enables travelers to enter public places if they have proof of vaccination or those who have medical exemptions. There are six categories for the U.A.E. Green Pass, including a pass for 28 days, 14 days, 7 days, or 3 days.
The COVID-19 Situation In The U.A.E.
Cases are dropping rapidly in the U.A.E. following the Omicron variant. The current 7-day case average, throughout the entire nation, is 695. That’s a significant decrease from the 7-day case average of nearly 3,000 merely four weeks ago.
Dubai vaccinated 99% of its population, with over 24 million vaccine doses administered.
The Dubai Layover Program
Dubai is one of the best layover destinations in the world. You can arrange these layover programs with various travel agents. The layover is possible for most passport holders for 48 or 96 hours.
You can stay at the beach, in the middle of the city, or even relax within the tranquillity of the desert for up to 48 hours before moving on to various destinations. Also, you’ll enjoy exclusive rates at water parks, hop-off bus tours, theater tickets, and top-rated tourist attractions.
If you’re flying with Emirates Airlines, you can easily book a stopover in Dubai. They will take care of everything for you, including a meet and greet at the airport, visa assistance, and help with tours and excursions.
