UAE Finally Removes Nearly All COVID-19 Restrictions
The UAE has entered into the second phase of easing the restrictions after examining the epidemiological situation across the country.
The National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) announced the updated entry requirements on Sunday (Nov. 6th) during the special media briefing on COVID-19 updates.
Updated entry rules to the UAE
AI Hosn App
AI Hosn App is now limited to vaccination proof and negative test certificates both inside and outside the country if requested.
Moreover, a Green Pass is no longer mandatory to access public facilities and sites.
Wearing masks
Wearing masks was made optional in both all open and closed facilities. Masks, however, are still obligatory in health facilities and centers for people of determination.
Covid-19 facilities
PCR testing and treatment health facilities continue to function normally.
Mosques and praying facilities
Personal mats used for praying are now optional at mosques and praying facilities.
Sporting events and activities
Depending on the activity type and importance of the event, certain organizing bodies at the national and local levels may require participants to do pre-examination or provide vaccination proof.
Isolation period
A 5-day isolation period for persons infected with COVID-19 and test positive still remains in force.
Series of changes in restrictions amid the improving COVID-19 situation in the UAE
The latest announcement of loosening entry restrictions was preceded by a gradual easing of other measures in recent weeks, along with a significant decrease in the number of new coronavirus cases reported.
On Sept. 28th, the country made mask-wearing optional in public places and schools, while wearing them at mosques, public transportation, and medical facilities remained mandatory.
Airlines were given the option to decide on their own whether they still require passengers to wear masks during the flights.
The first positive Covid-19 case was reported in the UAE on Jan. 29th, 2022.
The UAE is one of the most successful countries in the world when it comes to fighting the coronavirus pandemic, with nearly 100 % of the fully vaccinated population.
Other requirements to enter the UAE
Travelers going to the UAE should also remember that they need to obtain a visa prior to travel.
Since 2019, the UAE has offered the electronic visa option enabling certain travelers to get a visa entirely online.
The approved e-Visa for the UAE can be used to enter every emirate, i.e., Abu Dhabi, Ajman, Dubai, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, Sharjah, or Umm Al Quwain.
Eligible applicants can choose from four available visa types and use them for tourism, business, or transit purposes.
