The United Arab Emirates has expanded the scope of compulsory medical examinations before entering the country for all residents residing abroad. According to the latest reports, the UAE will welcome the arrival of all residents currently living abroad, presenting the results of medical examinations conducted at any laboratory accredited by governments in countries across the world.

This development has come in light of the announcement made by the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority (NCEMA) and the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship expanding the approval of COVID-19 test results to include all accredited laboratories by governments around the world.

At the same time, the NCEMA has stated that all passengers coming from countries across the world will have to register on the website of the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship before arrival. The travellers are also required to communicate with health centres accredited within their countries to complete the necessary screening and testing process within 96 hours of their flight. They are required to show a negative test result to the airlines to ensure the health and safety of other passengers travelling to the country.

Significantly, the UAE authorities also laid emphasis on the importance of easing international travel in a bid to facilitate family reunification among residents coming from foreign countries.

Authorities also stressed on the necessity for passengers to ensure adherence to the precautionary and preventive measures put in place upon their arrival to the Emirate. From filling the health form to carrying out necessary medical examinations and downloading the Al-Hosn application, travellers are required to adhere to all other procedures announced to maintain public safety amid the efforts to contain the pandemic.

WAM