International flights have resumed in the UAE as the country gradually returns to normalcy after several months of restrictions on travel, movement and economic activity following the outbreak of coronavirus. UAE citizens and residents can now fly out of the country but only for certain reasons as outlined by the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (IA). Emiratis living abroad can travel back to their homes while other reasons of travelling can be education, work, business, healthcare, entertainment and humanitarian.
Heading To Abu Dhabi? Check Out These Entry Requirements
Travellers who fall under any of these categories can apply for a permit via an exit registration service launched on IA’s website. They must also provide the following documents for each category:
- Emiratis Living Abroad – Proof of residence or marriage contract
- Education – A no-objection letter from the Ministry of Education UAE
- Work – A letter from the employer with details of the project or training for which the individual needs to travel
- Business – Documents to prove business concerns in the other country, such as contracts of commercial property
- Healthcare – A letter of recommendation approved by a medical committee or approval of an official medical committee, in case the treatment is paid for by the state
- Entertainment – Proof of booking at the entertainment destination
- Humanitarian – Death or illness certificate of a first-degree relative
Passengers will also need to have a negative COVID-19 test result in order to get the permit. To return to the UAE, they will need to apply for an entry permit and also provide a recent COVID-19 negative test result. All travellers must also provide details of their international health insurance valid in the destination country for the duration of their trip and comply with all safety guidelines of the airport authorities.
Dubai residents flying via Emirates can check the airline’s detailed guidelines on their website here.
