Dubai has announced that fully vaccinated travellers will no longer be required to show evidence of a recent negative PCR test when travelling to the city. Previously, all holidaymakers over the age of 12 had to take a pre-departure test. 

Futhermore, unvaccinated travellers are now able to show a recent recovery certificate instead of taking a test, however this must be dated within 30 days of departure. The tight window means that, in practice, most who have not been inoculated will still be required to take a pre-departure test. 

The good news for families is that children under 16 are no longer required to take a test, regardless of vaccination status. This means trips to the desert metropolis are straightforward once again as the Easter holidays approach.

Here, we run through Dubai’s entry rules and what to expect on the ground.

Can I travel to Dubai? 

Yes, Dubai is welcoming UK holidaymakers. Travellers who show proof of double vaccination against Covid no longer need to show evidence of a recent negative test. 

Unvaccinated arrivals must show evidence of a negative PCR test taken no more than 48 hours prior to departure or a certificate proving recent recovery (dated within the last month). They may be required to undertake a further test on arrival and isolate pending the result (if the result is positive, depending on their symptoms and accommodation plans, they may be required to self-isolate in a government facility, a hospital, their hotel or privately arranged accommodation for at least 10 days). 

Printed or digital PCR test certificates or vaccination certificates are accepted and must include a QR code. Text certificates are not accepted. 

For those transiting through the popular hub of Dubai, the rules and conditions for entry at the final destination will apply.

What are the rules for children?

Children under the age of 16 and those with severe disabilities will be exempted from the test requirement, regardless of vaccination status. 

Will I need to quarantine?

No, unless you test positive during a potential random test at Dubai airport. If you do test positive, you will have to quarantine for 10 days in the place you are intending to stay or in a government-mandated facility. If you have booked to fly with Emirates and FlyDubai, coronavirus cover is included in the ticket prices, so quarantine expenses would be covered by the airline.

Similarly, vaccinated travellers arriving in neighbouring Abu Dhabi from overseas no longer need to quarantine. 

Are flights operating?

Yes, regular, direct flights are running between the UK and Dubai.

Will my insurance be valid if I go?

The FCDO no longer advises against all but essential travel to the United Arab Emirates, meaning standard travel insurance should be valid – but do check your policy before travelling.

Customers who have bought flights with Emirates or FlyDubai from December 1 will benefit from additional multi-risk travel insurance provided by AIG Travel. This includes cover for Covid-19 and overseas medical expenses. Passports need to be valid for six months.

What are the rules in Abu Dhabi?

All travellers arriving in fellow emirate Abu Dhabi are required to undertake a PCR test on arrival.

In addition, unvaccinated travellers must show evidence of a negative PCR test taken no more than 48 hours prior to departure or a certificate proving recent recovery (dated within the last month).

Children under 16 are exempt from pre-departure testing, and those under 12 do not have to take a PCR test on arrival.

Do I need to wear a face mask? 

The wearing of face masks remain mandatory in public indoor spaces but are now optional when outdoors. This also applies to visitors staying in hotels when they are not in their room. 

The previous requirement to practice social distancing in public places has been scrapped, and hospitality venues are largely operating as normal. 

Do I need to do any paperwork before travelling back to England?

Yes. All passengers must fill in a Passenger Locator Form before arrival back to England, including your reference code for your Day 2 test (if unvaccinated). You can do so, here.