FlyDubai and Air India Express have updated their pre-departure rules. The new pre-travel Covid-19 testing requirements applies to passengers traveling from Dubai to India.
New Rules For Passengers Travelling From Dubai To India
The Indian budget carrier revealed that all passengers departing from Dubai must carry a Covid-19 negative PCR test result. Air India Express also issued a notice to its passengers departing from Abu Dhabi. Travellers leaving Abu Dhabi via Air India Express must also submit a Covid-19 negative test result. The test must be done within 96-hours of departure. Children under the age of 12 and passengers who have a moderate or severe disability are exempt from this test. The new rule will be effective from 21 August.
Airlines will then collect the negative PCR test report at the check-in counter. In addition, Indian citizens returning to India must fill the Air Suvidha Self Reporting form available online, before reporting to the airport. Also note that Abu Dhabi Residents No Longer Need Entry Permit To Return To The UAE.
In case you’re planning to travel, here are 5 Destinations Under 6 Hours From The UAE That Are Now Welcoming Abu Dhabi Residents.Only passengers who carry the Covid negative certificate will be permitted to fly. Travellers must print the results and submit the same during check-in.
On the other hand, FlyDubai announced that the pre-travel rapid testing is not mandatory for FlyDubai passengers travelling to any destination in India. The decision is effective immediately.
Residents Returning To UAE Must Receive A ‘GREEN’ ICA Message
Residents returning to the UAE have a host of requirements. However, the most important ones are a negative PCR test result and checking the validity of travel on a the ICA website. UAE government urges residents to check these prior to departure. The advice comes after some residents were reportedly stranded at Abu Dhabi and Sharjah airports on 17 August.
Returning Residents DO NOT Need ICA Approval
Residents travelling to Abu Dhabi no longer require ICE approval. The Federal Authority for Identity will automatically grant pre-approval, without applying. Those traveling must update their personal data, ID number and passport number here. However, the update is optional for those who wish to verify the authenticity of their data and travel documents.
In addition, authorities also urged travellers to check the validity of their documents on the ICA website. Most residents received a green message, giving them a go-ahead for travel. However, a few others received a red message which read: “We will consider the possibility of rescheduling your travel date after 60 days to preserve your safety. We thank, and appreciate your understanding.” Passengers stranded at the airport were expected to have received the red message.
On that note, here’s a 7-Step Guide To PCR Test & Approvals for passengers returning to the UAE from India.