COVID-19: ICA or GDRFA approval to return to the UAE - Which one do you need?

These are the regulations for arrivals and departures at the UAE airports

Last updated: December 24, 2020 | 17:59

Huda Tabrez, Living in UAE Editor

3 MIN READ

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Travelling to or from the UAE soon? These are the guidelines at Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah airports.

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Guidelines for Dubai airports.

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Travelling back to the UAE? GDRFA approval is needed for Dubai visa holders. To apply for the GDRFA approval, visit: https://smart.gdrfad.gov.ae/Smart_OTCServicesPortal/ReturnPermitService.aspx

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If you are returning to the UAE and your visa has been issued by any other emirate, apart from Dubai, you would need to apply for an ICA approval. To apply for the ICA approval, visit: uaeentry.ica.gov.ae

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Read about the announcement here: https://gulfnews.com/1.1601646587193

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They will be required to get a test on arrival at the airport.

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Transit passengrs, too, are required to get a PCR test in certain cases.

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Depending on the country you are travelling to from Dubai, you may need to get a COVID-19 test.

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Speak to your airline to find the latest updates, before booking a ticket.

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Guidelines for passengers at Abu Dhabi airport

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Follow these simple steps to ensure your travel plans are not disrupted.

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1. Verify your status at uaeentry.ica.gov.ae (for UAE residents returning to the country)

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2. Book your flight 3. Arrange for a COVID-19 test

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4. Check the latest travel regulations from the airline you are flying with.

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You would also need to undergo a PCR test at the airport.

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14-day quarantine is mandatory for international passengers arriving in Abu Dhabi.

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Guidelines for Sharjah

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Sharjah Airport updated its guidelines in an announcement. Read more here: https://gulfnews.com/uae/1.1600862180081

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COVID-19 test is mandatory 96 hours before your departure.

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The test will be repeated at the airport.

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Find out the travel requirements of your destination country, if flying out of UAE.

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Make sure you have health insurance, which covers COVID-19.

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Read more here: https://gulfnews.com/1.74539016

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Quarantine is not mandatory if the test at the airport shows a negative result.

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If your test result is positive, you must undergo quarantine.

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Any medical expenses must be covered by the passenger or his or her sponsor.

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Downloading the ALHOSN app is essential. Read more about how the app works here: https://gulfnews.com/1.1587894042542

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