Unlocking the World
Traveling to Dubai during Covid-19: What you need to know before you go
CNN Travel Staff • Updated 1st August 2022
Editor's Note — Coronavirus cases are in flux across the globe. Health officials caution that staying home is the best way to stem transmission until you're fully vaccinated. Below is information on what to know if you still plan to travel, last updated on August 1.
(CNN) — If you're planning to travel to Dubai, here's what you'll need to know and expect if you want to visit during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The basics
Dubai has been open again to visitors since August 2020, though all arrivals must present proof of vaccination or recent recovery from Covid-19, or a negative Covid test.
What's on offer
Sun, shopping and some of the world's best hotels -- people come to Dubai to get away from it all. From incredible modern architecture to glossy beaches and high-end restaurants and hotels, this is a stylish blend of a city and beach break.
Who can go
There are no "red list" countries for travel to Dubai and so anyone normally permitted to travel to the emirate can do so.
What are the restrictions?
All passengers traveling to Dubai must present one of the following:
• Valid vaccination certificate(s), including a QR code, showing that the passenger is fully vaccinated with a vaccine approved by the WHO or the UAE
• A valid negative Covid-19 PCR test certificate issued within 48 hours from the time of sample collection and issued by an approved health service provider with a QR code
• A valid medical certificate with a QR code issued by the relevant authorities that the passenger has recovered from Covid-19 within one month from the date of recovery to the date of arrival
Random spot-checking is in place, so passengers may be requested to undergo a PCR test on arrival in Dubai and self-quarantine until they receive a negative result. Passengers who test positive for Covid-19 must follow the guidelines issued by the Dubai Health Authority.
Transiting passengers are not required to present a PCR test certificate unless it is mandated by their final destination.
Indian nationals with standard passport who are traveling to or from India via Dubai can obtain a visa on arrival in Dubai for a maximum stay of 14 days provided they have a visitor visa or green card issued by the US, or a residence visa issued by the UK or EU.
Full details about the current restrictions can be found on the Emirates website.
What's the Covid situation?
The US has raised its travel warning for the United Arab Emirates to Level 3 -- "High" -- and advises its citizens to be fully vaccinated before traveling there.
As of August 1, the UAE has recorded 2,334 deaths related to Covid-19 and a total of 990,400 cases. Its vaccination roll-out has been swift and comprehensive. More than 99% of the population is now fully vaccinated, according to the John Hopkins Coronavirus Resource Center.
What can visitors expect
Mask-wearing is mandatory in all indoor public venues, but is now optional in outdoor spaces.
Useful links
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