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What you need to be vaccinated to do in Abu Dhabi

The complete guide to where you can and can’t go depending on your vaccine status

New measures have come into effect that mean only those who have received both doses of the coronavirus vaccine are allowed to attend numerous public, sport and cultural events in Abu Dhabi.

It’s a big deal, and marks a major milestone on the path to recovery after a pretty lousy year in 2020.

But what facets of your daily life are likely to be most impacted?

It’s a question with a lengthy answer, particularly as Abu Dhabi will introduce green pass requirements for entry to malls, restaurants, hotels and other establishments from Tuesday June 15.

For full details on the additional layer of health and safety protocol for the capital, click here

Here are the current vaccine regulations in all the places you’re likely to go this week.

Need to book your appointment for the jab? Click here for everything you need to know.

The below guidelines are correct as of June 10 2021

Do I need to be vaccinated to go to the airport in Abu Dhabi?

You don’t need to be vaccinated to catch a flight, but your options to avoid quarantine at your final destination are enhanced if you’ve had both doses. All airlines are requiring negative PCR tests prior to check-in, the windows of which vary slightly by carrier. Going long-haul? Invest in a comfortable face mask as they must be worn for the duration of the flight.

Click here to read up on all the destinations welcoming vaccinated traveller without mandated quarantine periods.

Do I need to be vaccinated to go to the arcades in Abu Dhabi?

As yet no restrictions on non-vaccinated people parting with their coins and challenging friends to retro games of Space Invaders or Street Fighter, but authorities have said entertainment centres are only accessible with a green pass from Tuesday June 15. Call ahead first and remember to sanitise after beating the high score.

Do I need to be vaccinated to go to bars in Abu Dhabi?

The major headline from the recent change in government regulation is that you now need to be fully dosed up to visit bars in the UAE. You’ll also need a green pass from Tuesday June 15. Door men are checking both the Alhosn app and pdf version of the medical certificate issued after your second dose. Check in ahead of time so you aren’t stood out in the cold (or heat, we should say).

Fully vaccinated? Check out our expert bar reviews to make your next night out a corker.

Do I need to be vaccinated to go to the beach in Abu Dhabi?

You do not have to be vaccinated to enjoy the UAE’s many stunning beaches, though you will have to wear a mask and adhere to social distancing unless swimming. From Tuesday June 15 you’ll need to have a green pass to visit. Face masks will also need to be worn while on the promenade or visiting waterfront cafés and restaurants. 

Do I need to be vaccinated to go to on a boat trip in Abu Dhabi?

No vaccinations required to book your ticket aboard one of the UAE’s many yachts, but rules on masks and adequate social distancing are in effect out on the waves.

Do I need to be vaccinated to brunch in Abu Dhabi?

There are no restrictions on attending brunch if you are not yet vaccinated. However, masks need to be worn when not sat at your designated table.

Looking for your next banging brunch? Click here for our ultimate guide.

Do I need to be vaccinated to go to a bowling lane in Abu Dhabi?

The alleys don’t have any restrictions on entry for those who aren’t yet inoculated. Face masks are mandatory as is social distancing, and be sure to sanitise after every gutter ball (and by that we mean every roll).

Do I need to be vaccinated to cross the border in Abu Dhabi?

You don’t need to be vaccinated to travel between Dubai and Abu Dhabi, or any of the other emirates, but you will need to be able to produce a negative test result via the Alhosn app within 48 hours of crossing the border.

Do I need to be vaccinated to go to the cinema in Abu Dhabi?

Catch all the blockbusters you like this summer whether vaccinated or not. Masks down to chuck popcorn into your gob is fine, but make sure it goes back up. A green pass will be needed to purchase a ticket, however, from Tuesday June 15.

Click here for the best places in town to watch the latest flicks.

Do I need to be vaccinated to go to gigs in Abu Dhabi?

Live music is back. Authorities confirmed that “live entertainment and activities” are being trialled in restaurants, cafés and shopping malls for a month, and there’s no vaccine required to frequent those spots. Concerts, however, do require both doses.

Do I need to be vaccinated to go to the gym in Abu Dhabi?

Masks can be downed while engaging in rigorous exercise and there are no regs in place that stop unvaccinated people from getting their sweat on. That said, you do need to show a green pass to gain entry to the weights from Tuesday June 15.  

Do I need to be vaccinated to stay in a hotel in Abu Dhabi?

You’ll need to keep your mask on throughout your stay and keep a healthy distance from others, but there is nothing stopping staycationers from booking in at their favourite spots without a vaccine. From Tuesday June 15 you will need to be able to show a green pass to stay. 

Searching for an elite staycation. Click here for all the best rates

Do I need to be vaccinated to go to the mall in Abu Dhabi?

Bargain hunters and shop-til-they-droppers can hit the tills unimpeded by vaccination regs right now, but a green pass will be required to enter. 

Do I need to be vaccinated to go to a museum in Abu Dhabi?

Similarly the UAE’s cultural hubs are welcoming both vaccinated and non-vaccinated guests, but a green pass will be required to se the displays and exhibitions from Tuesday June 15.

Do I need to be vaccinated to go to the opera house or theatre in Abu Dhabi?

Depending on the venue and performance, opera houses and theatres are implementing measures that only allow entry for people who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Looking watch stars of the stage tread the boards? Call ahead to make sure your seat isn’t left empty at opening curtain.

Do I need to be vaccinated to go to the park in Abu Dhabi?

The fresh air can do you a world of good so it’s little wonder that both non vaccinated and vaccinated people alike are free to visit the nation’s public parks. However, from Tuesday June 15 only those with a green pass will be allowed in.

Do I need to be vaccinated to have a pool day in Abu Dhabi?

Vaccinated. Not vaccinated. You can still kick your feet up by the pool – so long as you follow pandemic guidelines to ensure the health and safety of yourself and other guests. However, from Tuesday June 15, a green pass will be required for guests. 

It’s always a good day for a pool day. Click here for a list of the best in town.

Do I need to be vaccinated to use public transport in Abu Dhabi?

As long as you are following all essential health and safety guidelines youcan access public transport without being vaccinated.

Do I need to be vaccinated to go to restaurants in Abu Dhabi?

You need to wear a mask while not at your table, but there are no restrictions on booking if you haven’t had the second dose of the vaccine yet. You will need a green pass though from Tuesday June 15.

Click here for the tastiest restaurants about. Period.

Do I need to be vaccinated to go to the salons or barbers in Abu Dhabi?

Need a fresh fade? Seeking even more volume in your next ‘do? Book your appointment because there’s no vaccine requirements for getting a cut.

Do I need to be vaccinated to go to school in Abu Dhabi?

Schools across the country have been open for a long time. Kids and teachers need to wear a mask while in the classroom.

Do I need to be vaccinated to go use sports facilities in Abu Dhabi?

To watch a professional game at a ticketed event you will need to be vaccinated and show a valid PCR test ahead of time. To compete in local leagues you will also need to be vaccinated, depending on the size of the teams (always consult with your league reps if unsure). Masks are required on entry and departure of the venue, but you can play without a mask as per guidelines.

Do I need to be vaccinated to go to the supermarket in Abu Dhabi?

Wear a mask and keep your wobbly trolley away from other people, but there’s no vaccine restrictions on the weekly shop. You will, however, need to show a green pass to enter large supermarkets from Tuesday June 15.

Do I need to be vaccinated to go to theme parks in Abu Dhabi?

As of June 15, all guests above the age of 16 will have to provide proof of a green pass on the ALHOSN UAE app to gain access to all Yas Theme Parks and CLYMB Abu Dhabi regardless of their vaccination status. All theme parks in Abu Dhabi continue to enforce thermal screening, mandatory mask-wearing and social distancing.

Do I need to be vaccinated to go to water parks in Abu Dhabi?

Similar to theme parks, health and safety guidelines with regards to mask wearing, social distancing and thermal scanning are in place and as of June 15 Yas Waterworld requires all guests aged 16 and older to provide proof of a green pass on the Alhosn app.

Do I need to be vaccinated to go to work in Abu Dhabi?

Something you should probably ask your boss…

Not clued up on the COVID-19 vaccination campaign? Click here for everything you need to know.