While many of us would have had some mammoth travel plans in place at the beginning of 2020, this was all put on hold due to the ongoing pandemic.
However, as we draw to the close of the year, travel restrictions are lifting with many countries no longer requiring lengthy quarantine periods on arrival. EW has rounded up the ultimate list of destinations where UAE residents can currently travel to without the need for a 14-day quarantine. But there are certain requirements for each destination, so make sure you check before booking anything.
Also, be mindful of travelling back to the UAE. Whilst in Dubai you just need a negative COVID-19 PCR test, there is currently a 14-day quarantine period in place in Abu Dhabi for any returning residents, as well as visitors.
With that, here’s the ultimate round-up of destinations which currently don’t have any quarantine restrictions for tourists.
Morocco
All those visiting must present a negative COVID PCR test taken within 48 hours of their departure as this picturesque country has opened its borders to tourist arrivals from more than 60 destinations which includes the UAE.
Bahrain
Arrivals from 182 countries are able to travel to Bahrain after having paid for and undergone a COVID PCR test upon arrival at the airport and need to self-isolate only until their negative results are provided.
Seychelles
Travellers from low and medium risk countries are permitted to travel to the Seychelles, including travellers from the UAE, provided they present a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours, and upload the results, as well as their travel details.
Malta
The gorgeous island of Malta has reopened its doors for tourism earlier in July, where visitors are now not required to self-quarantine upon arrival but might need to do thermal screenings. A self-declaration form must also be filled to showcase their travels in the last 30 days.
Croatia
This beautiful place is welcoming tourists who present a negative PCR test on arrival that is received within the past 48 hours. A travel announcement form along with proof of pre-booked accommodation needs to be given.
Greece
A destination that’s often bustling with A-listers, can also be on your list of potential places to visit this season. Arrivals from some countries – including Spain and the UAE – must produce a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of their flight. Twenty four hours before entering Greece, visitors must complete a passenger locator form (PLF) where they will provide their contact details in the country.
Kenya
With outdoor activities such as boating, game drives, bungee jumping and helicopter rides having resumed, this nature-infused country is one of the most refreshing destinations to visit. Travellers must get tested for COVID-19 before arrival, and must be able to present a PCR test certificate by a recognised facility. The test must be taken within 48 hours from the date of departure.
Zimbabwe
With outdoor activities such as boating, game drives, bungee jumping and helicopter rides having resumed, this nature-infused country is one of the most refreshing destinations to visit. Travellers must get tested for COVID-19 before arrival, and must be able to present a PCR test certificate by a recognised facility. The test must be taken within 48 hours from the date of departure.
Barbados
The dreamy island nation that’s heavily reliant on tourism is separating arrivals into low, medium and high-risk countries, with various requirements depending on the country of arrival. All tourists are encouraged to take a COVID-19 PCR test 72 hours prior to travel and submit their results for fast-tracking upon arrival. Those that don’t take a test before travelling must do so on arrival. Masks must be worn at the airport, and arrivals will undergo health screenings too.
South Africa
Home to an array of adventure sports and activities, tourists who are permitted to travel from low-risk countries to South Africa are required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of their departure, and also expect to undergo temperature checks at the airport. On arrival, travellers will also be asked to download the government’s contact tracing app for their entire visit to South Africa.
Maldives
If you’re looking for a luxurious escape, the Maldives is the perfect place to travel to. All arrivals must be able to present a COVID-19 PCR negative certificate, taken no more than 96 hours prior to departure. However, different rules apple for those who wish to go island hopping.
Egypt
This historic place is now welcoming tourists in possession of a negative PCR test certificate, issued within 72 hours of travel, and in paper format from an accredited laboratory with visitors required to wear their face masks out in public and follow the necessary social distancing rules.
Switzerland
If you wish to visit somewhere cold this season, the home of snow and luxury chocolates is open to those residing in the UAE no longer have to quarantine when travelling to Switzerland. However, note that the European/Schengen states (to which Switzerland belongs) still have entry regulations in place for certain nationalities/residents. It’s, therefore, necessary to check the requirements before making a booking.
United Kingdom
With the new rules, travellers flying to the UK from the UAE need not self-isolate for a period of two weeks, which is perfect for the winter feels except for those that have visited places that are not on the travel corridor list for the UK. However, those travelling are required to fill a passenger locator form and must adhere to the social distancing rules while wearing a facemask in public areas.
Montenegro
The almost fairytale-like region located south of Croatia on the Adriatic coast is welcoming tourists from ‘green list’ countries including the UAE. All must wear masks and observed social distancing with any parties being forbidden.
Tanzania
This stunning country has opened its borders without having to quarantine for 14 days on arrival. A health screening needs to be submitted with instructions followed as per the country’s COVID-19 laws.
Turkey
All passengers must wear a face mask while travelling, and may be subject to a COVID-19 health screening on arrival with a passenger information form that needs to be filled.
For any rules or updates, pertaining to each country please visit their respective websites on more information from their governments.
