The National Authority for Emergency, Crisis and Disaster Management (NCEMA) and the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) on Wednesday issued new travel requirements for passengers travelling on direct flights from four countries in Africa: Nigeria, Kenya, Rwanda and Ethiopia.

As per the updated protocols, passengers are required to present a negative COVID-19 test report obtained within 48 hours as well as undergo a Rapid-PCR test at the main airport at least six hours before the departure of their flight.

Another Rapid PCR test will be required at the transit airport before the passenger is allowed to enter the UAE.

The UAE authorities have urged all passengers affected by the new safety protocols to follow up and contact their airlines to ensure necessary modifications in their flight schedules and travel plans. It will help them in ensuring a safe return to their final destinations without any delays and other problems during travel.

Updated travel protocols for passengers flying from the four countries:

On Direct flights

· Mandatory negative PCR test result undertaken within 48 hours of flight departure.

· A Rapid-test conducted at the main airport within 6 hours of departure

On Transit flights

· A negative PCR test result generated within 48 hours of departure

· A Rapid-PCR test performed at the main airport within 6 hours of departure

· Another Rapid-PCR test conducted at the transit airport before entering the UAE

These protocols are aimed at ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all travellers and other stakeholders, particularly in view of the rising concerns over the surge in the Omicron COVID-19 variant across the world.