The General Authority of Civil Aviation and the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority made an announcement on Tuesday that the suspension of entry into the UAE for travelers from India would be extended. Suspension’s end date hasn’t been announced yet.

The suspension is applicable to travelers from India on all national and foreign carriers flights, along with transit passengers coming from India, with the exception of transit flights travelling to the UAE and bound for India. Suspension of entry for travelers who were in India in the 14-day period before arriving in the UAE is also included.

India's coronavirus infections tally crossed 20 million on Tuesday. With this India became second nation after the United States to pass the grim milestone in Covid-19 cases. The cases in India are expected to reach peak this week according to experts. 

The suspension was brought into effect on April 25 and was extended to after May 4. However, last week authorities announced staying of suspension until May 14. Tuesday’s decision further clarifies of staying of extension.

For passengers traveling from the UAE to India: The flights to carry passengers from the UAE to India will continue, and also transfer of exempted groups from India to the UAE who have applied for exemption. Exempted travelers, who include UAE citizens, those on diplomatic missions accredited by the two countries, official delegations, those traveling on business planes, and golden residence holders, will have to take precautionary measures, including a 10-day quarantine and PCR testing at the airport and also on the fourth and eighth days after entering the country. PCR testing period to be taken before traveling has been reduced from 72 to 48 hours. All tests must be done by accredited laboratories that issue results with a QR code.

Oman has also extended ban on travelers from India, and also on people coming from any country if have transited through India in past 14 days before flying to Oman.

14 day period stay in another country: The General Authority of Civil Aviation said that travelers from India coming through other countries are required to provide proof of a period of stay in those countries of no less than 14 days. Only then they would be allowed to enter the UAE. Cargo flights will continue to operate between nations. The authority called upon affected travelers to contact the relevant airlines for rescheduling their flights to ensure safe return to their final destinations without delay.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation expressed solidarity and extended its condolences to the government and people of India as Covid-19 continues to wreak havoc on the country, wishing them speedy recovery. The Ministry affirmed deep historical and strategic friendly relations between the UAE and India, based on solid foundations of mutual respect, understanding, cooperation, and common interests.