In a bid to enhance the COVID-19 preventative measures to early detection of the virus infections, the Abu Dhabi Crisis, Emergencies and Disasters Committee recently updated the requirements for residents and visitors to enter the emirate.

As per the updated regulations, residents and visitors seeking to enter Abu Dhabi from November 8 (Sunday) and stay in the emirate for four or more consecutive days will have to perform a PCR test on the fourth day of entry. Furthermore, if they are staying for eight or more days, they will be required to take another PCR test on the eighth day of their stay in the emirate.

In addition, they will be allowed to enter the emirate after presenting a negative PCR or DPI test result performed within 48 hours of travel.

Eventually, the current PCR test requirement will cease to be compulsory for residents and visitors willing to enter Abu Dhabi from November 8 after new regulations will come into effect.

As per a WAM report, an individual travelling to Abu Dhabi on Sunday, i.e. Day 1, will have to present a negative PCR or DPI test certificate within 48 hours. If the individual stays for four or more days, then a new PCR test will be required on Wednesday, i.e. Day 4. If that individual is aiming to stay for eight or more days, an additional PCR test will be compulsory on next Sunday, i.e. Day 8.

As per a WAM report, the updated rules will apply to all UAE citizens and residents as well as those returning to the emirate. In addition, those who fail to conduct the PCR tests or follow the necessary requirements will have to face fines for violating the preventive regulations.

Meanwhile, volunteers in the COVID-19 vaccine trials in the UAE have been exempted from these measures, adding that they have been authorised to use emergency vehicle lanes for an easier journey.

WAM