UAE residents and citizens jetting into the UK over the festive period will need to complete a PCR test on arrival and self-isolate until they receive a negative test result.
The UK government announced a tightening of safety measures which will necessitate passengers having a PCR test by the end of day two after touching down on British soil.
Previously, arrivals only had to get a lateral flow test, and did not have to self-isolate. The day of arrival is counted as day zero.
The new measures are compulsory for anyone entering the UK, even if fully vaccinated.
UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the measures would be reviewed in three weeks’ time.
UPDATE: with the first cases of Omicron variant identified in the UK, we’re taking extra measures to protect public health (1/4)
— Rt Hon Grant Shapps MP (@grantshapps) November 27, 2021
UK Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said on Twitter: “With the first cases of Omicron variant identified in the UK, we’re taking extra measures to protect public health.”
Restrictions in the UK were tightened at a similar time last year as the country battled a spike in COVID cases.
In contrast, cases in the UAE reached double digits in October and have remained on a downward trend since.
Both Abu Dhabi and Dubai were recently in the top ten places to relocate to, according to the Relocation Report by Money.co.uk.
The cities ranked highly for several factors, including house prices, living costs, average salary, weather conditions, number of restaurants and green spaces, internet speed and life expectancy.
Muscat, Doha and Manama from the region all ranked in the top 20.
Still looking to jet off on a winter escape? Click here for all the top places to take a trip this festive season.
