Travellers coming from certain African countries will not be accepted for travel into the UAE, including Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The important COVID-19 travel update comes into effect from November 29 until further notice and is as directed by the Dubai COVID‑19 Command and Control Centre (CCC). The coronavirus update comes as cases rise globally and there is concern about a new variant.
The updated coronavirus protocols impact all travellers “originating from, or transiting from” seven countries in Africa: Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa and Zimbabwe. Passengers from these places “will not be accepted for travel” into the United Arab Emirates from November 29, as previously mentioned.
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Emirates shared the updated coronavirus travel news on its website on November 26. Additionally, the announcement started that customers travelling from Dubai to any of the aforementioned countries “are not impacted by this directive, and can continue to fly as booked,” but it is strongly recommended that they, and all other travellers, continue to check the travel requirements of their final destinations.
Those travelling from Dubai into the countries listed above, are not impacted by this directive, and can continue to fly as booked. All travellers are strongly advised to check the travel requirements for their final destination.
Customers who have been impacted by the new travel restrictions do not need to call Emirates to rebook. They will be contacted by an Emirates representative when flights resume.
Similarly, Emirates revealed that Singapore will not allow entry or transiting passengers who have a travel history (including transfers) within the last 14 days before departure for Singapore from Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa and Zimbabwe, effective November 27.
The new COVID-19 travel guidelines apply to short-term visitors, long‑term pass holders, all those who had obtained prior approval for entry into Singapore. However, Singapore citizens and Singapore Permanent Residents are exempt from the new restrictions.
The update shortly follows the UAE’s updated entry procedures for neighbouring countries. From November 23, travellers vaccinated with UAE-approved shots and booster jabs must present a negative PCR test that does not exceed 14 days to enter land borders. Additionally, they must take a PCR test on the sixth day of entry, if they stay for six consecutive days or more.
The new COVID-19 protocol applies to all GCC citizens and foreigners, including those who live in border areas and are repeatedly entering and leaving the United Arab Emirates.
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