GDRFA approval, PCR tests must for residents returning to Dubai

Gulf Today, Staff Reporter

The UAE authorities have allowed stranded residents to return to UAE, the Dubai Airport officials and Emirates said that General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs Dubai (GDRFA) approval mandatory for all passengers returning to the Emirate.

The decision is effective from Aug.5, for passengers travel to and through Dubai from India, Nepal, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Uganda.

The Emirates website said, “Dubai visa holders must apply for pre‑entry approval through General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).”

The GDRFA approval is one of the most important conditions for entry to the UAE. Apart from the approval, all passengers must have a valid COVID 19 test certificate issued within 48 hours between the time of sample collection and scheduled flight departure.

The authorities have clarified that PCR test reports would only be accepted from certified labs in the native country.

The test must be carried out by an accredited laboratory with a QR code.

Before boarding, in addition to application, a rapid PCR test is required, and upon arrival quarantine and PCR testing will be carried out. Emiratis are exempted from the above requirements but subject to COVID‑19 PCR test on arrival in Dubai.

Exemptions for non vaccinated passengers:

• Holders of golden and silver visas and diplomats.

• Healthcare workers including doctors, nurses and technicians.

• Education sector workers including professors, teachers and students studying in the UAE.

• Government employees.

• Exhibitors and participants who are under the sponsorship of EXPO 2020.