Traveling to Dubai during COVID-19

Through the years, Dubai has become a must-visit destination for travelers who want to experience the best of the Middle East. The city has the perfect blend of the modern, and the traditional and is one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world. Along with many other historic buildings and monuments, the city boasts a number of tourist attractions that draw in visitors from across the globe.

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Dubai is a land of extremes and has something to offer to everyone: from the culture and history of the Persian Gulf to the sandy beaches and lush resorts and beaches and desert and camel treks. Dubai is a city that is full of life and is brimming with excitement and energy. The city is indeed worthy of being on top of any traveler’s bucket list for a dream destination; however, given the COVID 19 pandemic, you may or may not be able to visit this famous city in UAE.

Before you book a journey going to Dubai…

Dubai is happy to announce that they are open to tourists again. However, given the present situation, the city advises every traveler to follow the safety protocol as well as the requirements before and during their stay in the city.

Here are the requirements that you may need when traveling to Dubai during COVID-19:

• Visa – Visa requirements will depend on one’s nationality. You can either apply for it once you arrive in Dubai or get a prearranged visit visa from Dubai Immigration in your country of origin before traveling.
• Negative COVID-19 PCR test certificate – This certificate should, of course, be valid, in hard copy, and comes with a valid QR code. This test should have been conducted within 48 hours. Its validity is computed at the time of sample collection, prior to departure from a health facility.
• Rapid PCR test report – The test should be conducted in the airport of the point of departure within 6 hours prior to departure. The report should also have a QR code.

There are also exemptions to these requirements. Depending on your country of origin, you might be asked to follow specific protocols. Also, other than presenting a negative COVID19 PCR test certificate, you can also present your vaccination certificate.

When you arrive in Dubai…

Aside from presenting the requirements that you have prepared prior to your arrival to the city, you also be asked to:

• Take another COVID-19 PCR test – there are designated laboratories that the UAE government have specified where you can take the test. Aside from the ones specified by the government, you can also take the test from the certified laboratories in your home country. Make sure that the test from this laboratory is also recognized and accepted worldwide.
• Stay at your hotel. After the PCR test, you will be asked to stay in your residence or hotel until you receive the negative result.
• Download COVID-19-DXB app – this smart app is available for both Android and iOS users.

If in case the PCR test arrives and you are positive, you will be required to undergo isolation. You will also be required to follow the guidelines imposed by the Dubai Health Authority. To be guided properly with the health protocol and other requirements, you may also want to check the official website.