The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security, and the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority (NCEMA) recently updated the land entry protocols for people seeking to enter the country via land. Effective from November 23, the new rules apply to GCC citizens and expatriates living in the region.

As per the protocols, fully vaccinated travellers and those who have received the booster dose are required to present a negative PCR test result conducted within 14 days of entrying the UAE. The vaccine much be among those approved by the UAE health sector. For people staying in the UAE for six consecutive days, a PCR test is required on the sixth day of entering the country.

In addition, travellers who are not fully vaccinated are required to present a negative COVID-19 test certificate conducted within 72 hours of entering the UAE. Furthermore, they must take another PCR test on the fourth day of their stay in the country, in case they are staying for four or more days. Similarly, another test must be conducted on Day 8 if people wish to stay for eight days or more days in the UAE.

Education sector

During the new academic year, vaccinated and non-vaccinated students, parents (for picking up students from educational institutions) and educational staff are required to present a negative PCR test result taken within 14 days. It is among the special rules announced by the authorities for teachers, students and parents who regularly cross the border.

Additional measures

Meanwhile, travellers are urged to comply with COVID-19 precautionary measures such as wearing masks, maintaining physical distance and sterilising luggage to limit the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, the authorities have urged peole with chronic diseases and those observing COVID-19 symptoms avoid travelling.