Dubai is set to welcome tourists back starting from next month.
It was announced on Sunday the emirate would be able to welcome tourists back from July 7. All those intending to travel to Dubai present a negative COVID-19 test upon arrival, or undergo a test at the airport.
#Dubai to welcome tourists from 7 July 2020; tourists required to present recent COVID-19 negative certificate or undergo testing at Dubai airports.
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) June 21, 2020
The decision comes from a directive from HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. From this directive, HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and the Supreme Committee of Crisis and Disaster Management announced the protocols in place for air travel for all citizens, residents and tourists.
As well as a negative COVID-19 test, visitors must be prepared to follow the stringent guidelines in place for travelling to Dubai.
This includes having valid health insurance; filling out the health declaration form for entering the country; download the COVID-19 DXB app; and be aware airlines have the right to refuse passengers boarding if they suspect they may have COVID-19.
Under the directives of @HHShkMohd, and follow-up of @HamdanMohammed Supreme Committee of Crisis and Disaster Management announces new air travel protocols for #Dubai citizens, residents and visitors. pic.twitter.com/UZmT8UBwXs
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) June 21, 2020
Similarly, if upon arrival a passenger is showing COVID-19 symptoms, they will be tested and if the test comes back as positive, they will be required to quarantine in a government-approved facility for 14 days at the expense of the traveller.
Not only that, but travellers should also be aware there are a number of precautionary rules in place to prevent the further spread of COVID-19. This includes the mandatory wearing of masks, social distancing measures and more. If guidelines are not followed, fines will be imposed by Dubai Police.
Returning residents and travelling abroad
It’s not just tourists Dubai will be welcoming back, but UAE residents will begin to return to the country as of today, June 22, after borders were closed for the better part of three months due to the pandemic.
Similarly, as of June 23 citizens and residents are also permitted to travel overseas. However, be aware of the protocols in place for travelling outside of the country.
While it’s far from normality, this is a huge step for getting things back on track for Dubai.
