How to ensure smooth travel from India to UAE

Residents who has reached in the UAE from India today has shared the travel experiences and gives some travel tips for people who plan to travel to the Emirates in the coming days.

Must know: Returning from India to UAE? Get your Covid-19 tests done here

First and most importantly travellers must ensure that their PCR Covid-19 tests are valid. The validity of covid results is calculated 96 hours from the time of submission of your sample and not once you get the test results. Also, the test has to be get done from ICMR-accredited test centres. The passengers will not not be allowed to board the flight if their tests were done at non-accredited centres.

A detailed list of accredited centres are mentioned on the Arogya Setu app. To be on a safer side book your ticket on day three after submitting the sample. In that way, in case there is a flight cancellation, you still have one day to get another flight.

Also know: List of flights from India to UAE

When you are landed in UAE, just before the immigration counters, airport authorities collect the declaration form and hand over a small pouch with the testing kit.

The immigration process is normal. After immigration, you have to walk into the Covid-19 testing area, give them the test kit, and they perform the nasal swab.

The airport staff will then explain how the Covid-19 Dubai app works, noting that results will be sent via the app. Dubai Duty-free shops are open. Once you exit, taxis will be waiting as usual.

A short preview for passengers preparing for the UAE flight from India:

>It is better to get your PCR test done before booking flight tickets to the UAE

>Calculate the validity of your PCR test 96 hours from the time you submitted your sample

>Keep copies of your GDRFA/ICA approvals ready before travelling

>Arrive at the airport early

>Though PPE kits and face shields are provided to passengers before boarding, it is good to carry your own

>Don't forget to bring a bottle of hand sanitiser

>If you are travelling with kids, ensure that they are wearing masks

>Pre-packed food is provided on the flight, it's best to save it for later

>Home quarantine is recommended until test results of passengers are released

>If your city in India is on lockdown, you can travel to the airport. However, if you need to travel from one state to another, apply for an online e-pass on https://serviceonline.gov.in/epass/ 

>Plan ahead and keep a plan B, plan C, plan D

>A copy of GDRFA approvals from passengers travelling to Dubai, Sharjah

>A copy of ICA approvals for passengers travelling to Abu Dhabi. Please note: Passengers with ICA approvals can enter through all airports in the UAE.

>A copy of your PCR Covid-19 negative test

>Health Declaration and Quarantine Undertaking forms to be filled and submitted at the Dubai Airport on arrival

>Passport and air tickets