Dubai International Airport has now introduced an easy immigration process for all travellers. Those departing DXB can now complete immigration in a jiffy, thanks to the smart gates at terminal 3. Travellers can pass the immigration by scanning their passports. DXB’s smart gates are now operational as part of UAE’s precautionary measures to curb COVID-19.
“The restart of the smart gates helps to facilitate and simplifies the travel procedures, as the smart gates are considered to be the safest way to travel in light of the current conditionsof the fight against the COVID-19,” Maj Gen Al Marri said in a statement.
Previously, passengers could operate the smart gates using their passport, Emirates ID, e-gate card or a QR bar code generated via the GDRFA smartphone app. The usage of smart gates simplifies procedures and also fits well into the current travel conditions. The smart gate facility is open to all travellers, and one does not need to be a Dubai resident. However, smart gates at other terminals at currently not functional.
Dubai reopened to tourists in July, after closing borders to international flights since March.
#India2UAE: Your Ultimate 7-Step Guide To PCR Test & Approvals
1. Approvals
There has been a lot of confusion if residents traveling back to the UAE must secure approval from GDRFA or ICA. The UAE government has issued clarification on the same. Residents who are returning to Dubai or Sharjah from India, must get a valid pre-departure approval from the General Directorate of Residency and Foreign Affairs (GDRFA).
However, those entering Abu Dhabi or Sharjah, DO NOT NEED an approval from the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA). Air India Express recently clarified the same on its website on 12 August. Also read Abu Dhabi Residents No Longer Need Entry Permit To Return To The UAE.
Travellers can then update Emirates ID number, Passport number or citizenship number on this link: uaeentry.ica.gov.ae. However, this is optional for those wishing to verify the authenticity of their data and travel documents.
2. Covid-19 PCR Test
Residents travelling back to Sharjah, Dubai or Abu Dhabi must carry a valid negative covid-PCR test report. The test must not be older than 96 hours, prior to departure. Lastly, the test must be done only at an accredited lab.
3. Book A Return Ticket
Once you have completed the first two steps, you can book a return ticket to the UAE. ICA manages visas issued by Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, and Umm Al Quwain. Meanwhile, UAE Announces One-Month Extension For Visitors With Expired Visas.
4. Submit The Negative Covid Test To The Airline
Before boarding, submit your negative covid test to the airline. This will then be checked based on the travel requirements. put out by the UAE government.
5. Take A Covid Lab Test On Arrival
All passengers must take a covid test upon arrival. The UAE airports have been conducting tests at the airports.
6. Download The Al Hosn Mobile App
All passengers arriving in the UAE must download the Al Hosn mobile app.
7. Abide By Quarantine Rules
All residents returning to Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, and Umm Al Quwain must abide by a 14-day quarantine. Violating the rule can lead to a fine of AED 50,000.
Checklist Of Documents
- Valid GDRFA approval for those travelling to Dubai
- Negative PCR test result
- Health and declaration forms to be filled upon arrival
- Passport & a valid flight ticket
Until you can fly again, here are some weird virtual tours that you can take from across the world.