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UAE announces two new types of visas
UAE announces two new types of visas

Stranded UAE expat residents allowed to return from India if fully vaccinated

Holders of valid residency visas can also return from Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Nigeria and Uganda

Fully vaccinated expats will be allowed to fly into the UAE from India, authorities have confirmed.

The National Emergency, Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) and General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) confirmed that stranded residents will be granted special permission to return to the UAE if they have received both doses of the jab.

The exemption to the ongoing travel ban extends to UAE residents trying to return home from Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Nigeria and Uganda.

Flights will commence on Thursday August 5.


Arrivals must hold a valid residency visa, have received two doses of UAe-rocngnised vaccines, and have waited 14 days since receiving the second jabs.

You might also like: Had the jab yet? Everything you need to know about getting the vaccine in the UAE

Vaccination certificates approved by official authorities in the country of origin will also need to be presented on touching down.

Medical personnel working will be also exempted, including doctors, nurses, and technicians whether vaccinated or not vaccinated.

Those working in the educational sector who teach in universities, colleges, schools and institutes are exempted, irrespective of their vaccination status.

Students studying in the country, people who deserve humanitarian consideration with valid residency visa, workers in federal and local government authorities, and cases of those completing treatment in the country, whether they are vaccinated or not, will also be exempted.

Approval will need to be confirmed via the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship ahead of travel.

Exempted groups will need to submit a prior PCR test within (48) hours from the date of departure, provided that the tests are from accredited laboratories and carry a QR Code, and that laboratory test is conducted before boarding the plane.

They must also follow all precautionary and preventive measures upon arrival, including quarantine and PCR checks upon and after arrival, in addition to follow-up and health monitoring.

Stick close to Time Out Dubai for the latest travel updates.