Abu Dhabi-based airline Etihad Airways is now including a COVID-19 test in the price of tickets for those departing from the UAE capital.
Up until the end of the year, Etihad customers departing from Abu Dhabi International Airport will be entitled to a COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test at Life Medical Diagnostic Centres around the UAE as part of the cost of their ticket.
However, this does not include those flying to China.
Discussing the new launch, Dr Nadia Bastaki, the Vice President of Medical Services for the airline said: “We are confident this partnership will provide Etihad, and most importantly our guests, with Life Dx’s superior testing technologies so they can travel from the capital with greater peace of mind.”
She also added it’s a “further step” to help passengers feel “secure and protected” when travelling with the airline.
Abu Dhabi borders open to tourists
This comes after it was announced Abu Dhabi’s borders are now open to tourists.
The reopening of the borders to international travellers is to “support recovery plans of the country’s tourism sector and economy”, the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) said.
However, unlike neighbouring emirate Dubai, those arriving into Abu Dhabi those who are arriving from an international destination – whether they are tourists or residents – must quarantine in their homes or a hotel room for 14 days even if they test negative for COVID-19.
Etihad Airways will include a Covid-19 test in the price of tickets for UAE customers departing from Abu Dhabi until the end of the year.
The national airline will offer all passengers flying out of the UAE capital the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test at Life Medical Diagnostic Centres around the country as part of their airfare.
