Q: What do I need to know or what are the rules I have to follow when in Dubai?

Responsibilities of travellers: Adhere to all official measures and requirements established by the Dubai Government and other countries before travelling and after returning to Dubai. Disclose any symptoms before travelling by filling in the form provided by airlines. Tourists will bear the costs of examination and treatment abroad, in the event they are infected with COVID-19, so are advised to have international health insurance coverage that covers COVID-19 before travelling. Take precautionary measures and self-monitor for any symptoms of COVID-19 Follow the isolation guidelines in the case you show symptoms on arrival and the result is “positive”.

Question 1

Is it safe to travel to Dubai? What measures do you have in place?

Accepted Answer

The national vaccination campaign commenced in December 2020 and is progressing at a great pace; for the latest number on doses administered please click here.
The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) alongside other relevant authorities continue to prioritise, monitor, and assure the safety and the well-being of all visitors to, and residents of Dubai as the utmost priority. Dubai Tourism continues to work diligently under the guidance from the World Health Organization to maintain rigorously high standards of public hygiene and safety, so the wellbeing of all residents and visitors remains uncompromised.
Dubai was also recognised by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and received its Safe Travels stamp for its safety protocols in place.

Question 2

What are the international travel requirements when travelling to Dubai?

Accepted Answer

All tourists and residents arriving into Dubai from any point of origin (including GCC countries) must hold a negative PCR test certificate, for which the test must be taken no more than 72 hours prior to the time of departure.
As announced on 22 April 2021, travelllers from certain countries must hold a negative PCR test, taken no more than 48 hours prior to the time of departure. Please see the following links for a list of countries which this is now applicable for:
• Dubai Airports
• Emirates
Negative COVID-19 certificates must be printed in English or Arabic (the date and time of the test must be detailed). The printed certificate must have a valid QR code. No hand written, SMS or digital certificates will be accepted.
UAE nationals are exempt from the above, but will be required to take a PCR test on arrival at Dubai airport, unless the country of origin requires a pre-travel test.
Tourists may test at any lab accredited by their health authority in their country. If you are travelling with Emirates, please click here for a list of accredited labs.
For select destinations, residents and tourists may be required to take two COVID-19 PCR tests: one before departure, and a second test upon arrival in Dubai. Please click here for a list of destinations where this is applicable.
Ensure you have medical travel insurance with international coverage that covers COVID-19 before travelling.
Customers purchasing an Emirates airline or FlyDubai ticket from 1 December 2020 benefit from additional multi-risk travel insurance provided by AIG Travel, including cover for COVID-19 and overseas medical expenses. Please see the following links for more information and a supporting FAQ: Emirates airline | FlyDubai
Tourists are required to register all their details in the COVID-19 DXB app iOS - Android
Fulfil entry visa requirements to visit the UAE.

Question 3

Do I need travel insurance when coming to Dubai?

Accepted Answer

Yes, ensure you have medical travel insurance with international coverage that covers COVID-19 before travelling.
Customers purchasing an Emirates airline or FlyDubai ticket from 1 December 2020 benefit from additional multi-risk travel insurance provided by AIG Travel, including cover for COVID-19 and overseas medical expenses. Please see the following links for more information and a supporting FAQ: Emirates airline | FlyDubai

Question 4

What are the procedures from my departure destination ahead of travelling to Dubai?

Accepted Answer

Please check your country’s travel advisory for latest guidance on outbound trips, as well as your carrier requirements.
Fulfil entry visa requirements to visit the UAE.

Question 5

What are the procedures upon arrival at Dubai Airports?

Accepted Answer

All tourists and residents arriving into Dubai from any point of origin (including GCC countries) must hold a negative PCR test certificate, for which the test must be taken no more than 72 hours prior to the time of departure.

Question 6

Following arrival, what are the procedures for exiting Dubai Airports?

Accepted Answer

Tourists are required to download the COVID-19 DXB app iOS - Android
Tourists who show symptoms on arrival and test positive for COVID-19 after being re-tested must comply with a 10-day isolation:
- The duration of isolation for COVID-19 has been reduced from 14 days to 10 days with effect from 5 January 2021.
- A person who is infected with COVID-19 will remain in isolation (home or facility). The isolation period for a confirmed COVID-19 case is 10 days. The isolation ends after completing the 10 days with improvement in symptoms and no fever for 3 consecutive days at least, without any fever reduction medication.
- For more information, please visit this Dubai Health Authority page.
- For those that are a COVID-19 close contact case, please check this link.
- The traveller will bear the cost of treatment and quarantine unless their carrier is Emirates or FlyDubai.
Customers purchasing an Emirates airline or FlyDubai ticket from 1 December 2020 benefit from additional multi-risk travel insurance provided by AIG Travel, including cover for COVID-19 and overseas medical expenses. Please see the following links for more information and a supporting FAQ: Emirates airline | FlyDubai
Compliance with all precautionary measures applied in Dubai (wearing masks, maintaining 2m social distance and washing hands regularly).

Question 7

Do I need a COVID-19 test when travelling to Dubai?

Accepted Answer

- All tourists and residents arriving into Dubai from any point of origin (including GCC countries) must hold a negative PCR test certificate, for which the test must be taken no more than 72 hours prior to the time of departure.
  - As announced on 22 April 2021, travelllers from certain countries must hold a negative PCR test, taken no more than 48 hours prior to the time of departure. Please see the following links for a list of countries which this is now applicable for:
    • Dubai Airports
    • Emirates
  - Negative COVID-19 certificates must be printed in English or Arabic (the date and time of the test must be detailed). The printed certificate must have a valid QR code. No hand written, SMS or digital certificates will be accepted.
  - UAE nationals are exempt from the above, but will be required to take a PCR test on arrival at Dubai airport, unless the country of origin requires a pre-travel test.
  - Tourists may test at any lab accredited by their health authority in their country. If you are travelling with Emirates, please click here for a list of accredited labs.
  - For select destinations, residents and tourists may be required to take two COVID-19 PCR tests: one before departure, and a second test upon arrival in Dubai. Please click here for a list of destinations where this is applicable.

Question 8

Will children and newborns be subject to COVID-19 PCR tests as well?

Accepted Answer

Infants and children below 12 years old are not required to do the COVID-19 PCR test. All older ages are required to conduct the COVID-19 PCR test.

Question 9

Is there going to be a mandatory quarantine for tourists?

Accepted Answer

No, only if they test positive with COVID-19.
Please check carrier and Dubai travel requirements for COVID-19 PCR testing.

Question 10

If I show symptoms on arrival at Dubai Airport and test positive, what happens?

Accepted Answer

If the result is positive, compliance with 10-day isolation becomes mandatory.
- The duration of isolation for COVID-19 has been reduced from 14 days to 10 days with effect from 5 January 2021.
- A person who is infected with COVID-19 will remain in isolation (home or facility). The isolation period for a confirmed COVID-19 case is 10 days. The isolation ends after completing the 10 days with improvement in symptoms and no fever for 3 consecutive days at least, without any fever reduction medication.
- For more information, please visit this Dubai Health Authority page.
- For those that are a COVID-19 close contact case, please check this link.
Alternatives for isolation include institutional quarantine (dedicated hotels/facilities), home or hospitalisation and potential options based on the patient’s assessment. The 10-day isolation period will be completed while following all necessary precautionary measures and monitoring of symptoms.

Question 11

Are transit travellers required to follow the same procedures related to conducting COVID-19 PCR test and signing the health declaration form etc.?

Accepted Answer

Passengers from certain countries transiting through Dubai must conduct a PCR test before departure, please refer to this link for further details.
The Negative PCR COVID-19 certificate must be printed in English or Arabic. No hand written, SMS or digital certificates will be accepted.
Passengers must check their country’s travel advisory for latest guidance on outbound trips, as well as the carrier requirements.

Question 12

What are the procedures when departing from Dubai?

Accepted Answer

Passengers departing Dubai Airports will need to do a PCR test only if it is mandated by the country they are travelling to.
A rapid PCR or Rapid Antigen test will be available at the airport to travellers departing from Dubai if their destination country requires it.
Passengers are advised to check the travel protocols of their carrier and arrival destination.

Note: Airlines have the right to deny travellers if they display any symptoms of COVID-19.

Question 13

What do I need to know or what are the rules I have to follow when in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

Responsibilities of travellers:
- Adhere to all official measures and requirements established by the Dubai Government and other countries before travelling and after returning to Dubai.
- Disclose any symptoms before travelling by filling in the form provided by airlines.
Tourists will bear the costs of examination and treatment abroad, in the event they are infected with COVID-19, so are advised to have international health insurance coverage that covers COVID-19 before travelling.
Take precautionary measures and self-monitor for any symptoms of COVID-19
Follow the isolation guidelines in the case you show symptoms on arrival and the result is “positive”.

Question 14

Do I have to wear a mask during my holiday in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

Masks are compulsory, as is keeping a two-metre social distance.
You must wear a mask unless exercising, eating or drinking, in a car with your family, or driving alone.

Question 15

Do tourists have to pay for the treatment and quarantine stay in a hotel if they show symptoms and/or require a second test and the test is positive?

Accepted Answer

The traveller will bear the cost of treatment and quarantine.
Customers purchasing an Emirates airline or FlyDubai ticket from 1 December 2020 benefit from additional multi-risk travel insurance provided by AIG Travel, including cover for COVID-19 and overseas medical expenses. Please see the following links for more information and a supporting FAQ: Emirates airline | FlyDubai
Alternatives for isolation include institutional quarantine (dedicated hotels/facilities), home or hospitalisation and potential options based on the patient’s assessment.

Question 16

If tourists who are spending their stay at family’s, friend’s residences and show COVID-19 symptoms on arrival and require a second test, would they be required to go into quarantine?

Accepted Answer

If the COVID-19 test result is positive, the traveller is required to adhere to the isolation guidelines. The location for isolation will be determined according to the household situation and the health status of the patient (institutional isolation or at the hospital).
- - A person who is infected with COVID-19 will remain in isolation (home or facility). The isolation period for a confirmed COVID-19 case is 10 days. The isolation ends after completing the 10 days with improvement in symptoms and no fever for 3 consecutive days at least, without any fever reduction medication.
  - For more information, please visit this Dubai Health Authority page.
  - For those that are a COVID-19 close contact case, please check this link.

Question 17

Do I need a visa and if yes, how do I apply?

Accepted Answer

For all the visa related information please reach out to The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs and check your country’s travel advisory for latest guidance on outbound trips.

Question 18

When will the Emirates flight routes be fully restored?

Accepted Answer

Please click here for the latest travel updates from Emirates Airline.
Please click here for information on which destinations Emirates is flying to and from.

Question 19

Has Dubai started its vaccine programme?

Accepted Answer

The national vaccination campaign, which started commenced in December 2020 and is progressing at a great pace, for the latest number on doses administered please click here.
For more information on the vaccination drive please see the following links: COVID-19 Vaccine Awareness Guide | COVID-19 vaccine appointment | Ministry of Health and Prevention - UAE
The vaccine is free of charge across the UAE and a valid Emirates ID is required to show eligibility.

Question 20

Are there still restrictions in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

Dubai is open and as a destination, the city adopts the highest international health and safety standards enabling the city to ensure the wellbeing of all our visitors remains the highest priority.
Family entertainment, attractions, observation decks, public transport, parks, beaches, pools, as well as shopping malls and restaurants & cafes are open and fully operating. All activities follow strict hygiene and sanitisation measures as well as implemented temperature checks to ensure the safety of guests.
Please see Dubai Municipality for further information on specific attractions or refer to the official websites of events/attractions as well as their social media channels for up-to-date information.

Question 21

Have MICE events resumed?

Accepted Answer

Yes, MICE Local and International events have resumed as well as leisure & retail events sector.
All events are following stringent safety and security protocols.

Question 22

Are destination weddings able to be planned in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

As announced by Dubai’s Supreme Committee of Crisis and Disaster Management effective Wednesday, 27 January 2021, attendance of weddings, social events, and private parties will be limited to first-degree relatives totalling a maximum of 10 people only, whether at a hotel or at home.

Question 23

Is it safe to book a holiday home?

Accepted Answer

Holiday homes are open and available for bookings.
Holiday Home Operators follow strict Dubai Municipality health and safety guidelines such as mandatory sterilisation and sanitisation to ensure the safety of guests.

Question 24

Where can I find the official measures and requirements by the Dubai Government?

Accepted Answer

The public will be required to strictly follow precautionary measures, which include:

Maintaining physical distance from others as per guidelines
Wearing a face mask as required
Undergoing temperature checks

Please find below helpful links to official sources:

Dubai Airports website
Dubai Municipality website
Dubai Health Authority website
Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship website
General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs-Dubai website
United Arab Emirates Ministry of Health & Prevention website

Question 25

Can business events currently be hosted in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

Dubai has been open for international business events since 1 October 2020, with robust measures in place to ensure the safety of organisers and delegates.

Delegates from around the world can attend business events in Dubai.

Dubai Business Events, the city’s official convention bureau, works with planners and organisers to make sure they understand the guidelines to host business events safely and smoothly.

Download detailed requirements for re-opening events in Dubai and our guide on the current measures in place at venues, business events, and across the city.

Question 26

What are the current special procedures and rules in place when arriving at DXB?

Accepted Answer

Precautionary measures implemented throughout the airport include hand sanitiser stations around the airport, protective plexiglass at check-in and immigration counters, thermal and temperature screening, social distancing markers and increased levels of cleaning and sanitisation. Before travel, visitors must check with their airline for specific details relevant to their country of departure.

All visitors arriving into Dubai from any point of origin (including GCC countries) must hold a negative PCR test certificate, for which the test must be taken no more than 72 hours prior to the time of departure.

Visitors arriving from selected countries may be subject to additional testing on arrival. The negative COVID-19 PCR test result must be presented in a printed certificate format by the visitor on arrival to DXB. The certificate must be in English or Arabic only. Handwritten certificates will not be accepted.

Upon arrival at DXB, visitors must download and register on the COVID-19 DXB Smart App (Apple or Andoid).

Find out more details about travel to and from Dubai on our Covid-19 travel advisory page.

Question 27

What are the current procedures in place when departing Dubai?

Accepted Answer

Only valid ticket holders will be allowed into the airport building. Travellers must not go to the airport more than four hours before their scheduled flight time. A protective mask must be worn by all travellers. Passengers displaying symptoms are advised to not come to the airport.

Passengers departing Dubai Airports will need to do a PCR test only if it is mandated by the country they are travelling to. A rapid PCR or Rapid Antigen test will be available at the airport to travellers departing from Dubai if their destination country requires it.

Passengers are advised to check the travel protocols of their carrier and arrival destination.

Find out more details about travel to and from Dubai on our Covid-19 travel advisory page.

Question 28

What are the health safety precautions related to Covid-19 followed at events in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

Repeated sanitisation of all venues takes place before, during, and after all events.

All staff must wear face masks and gloves (if in contact with people).

All attendees must wear face masks.

All attendees and staff must maintain 2 metres distance, as indicated on all floors especially in high traffic areas.

Venues can accommodate up to one person per 4 square metres of available space.

Hand sanitiser provision is mandatory throughout all venues.

Question 29

How is food safety being ensured?

Accepted Answer

Minimum 2 metres physical distancing in buffet queues, and staff must serve; there is no self-service.

All other food and beverage must be individually pre-packed and served by staff.

Special public areas must be designated for delegates to consume food and beverages.

Question 30

What rules are in place when staying and moving around Dubai?

Accepted Answer

Dubai is open and as a destination, the city adopts the highest international health and safety standards enabling the city to ensure the wellbeing of all our visitors remains the highest priority.

Everyone must observe physical distancing guidelines and abide by the instructions and preventive measures outlined by concerned authorities for example wearing masks and washing hands regularly.

Family entertainment, attractions, observation decks, public transport, parks, beaches, pools as well as shopping malls and restaurants & cafes are open and operating whilst adhering to strict safety measures as announced by the Supreme Committee of Crisis and Disaster Management.

Question 31

How do hotels maintain safety standards?

Accepted Answer

Hotels are open and continue to operate rigorous sterilisation and disinfection procedures as per Dubai Municipality requirements, extensive and strict contact rules for staff; and, compulsory wearing of masks for staff who are in direct contact with customers.

Question 32

Are taxis operating in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Taxi drivers wear face masks and gloves, with frequent sanitation of vehicles. A maximum of two passengers can be seated at the back and no passenger in front.

Question 33

Are there any restrictions on nationalities?

Accepted Answer

There are no nationality restrictions. However, Immigration reserves the right to reject applicants for national security reasons.

Question 34

Can I apply if I’m already a resident in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

No, this programme is not applicable to those holding a residency visa OR who have an application already under process for residency.

Question 35

What services will I be able to access if I’m living in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

This programme will provide applicants with the ability to live in Dubai in a similar manner to residents, by providing access to phone lines, resident ID cards, banking facilities and the ability to rent accommodation or send children to school.

Question 36

Can I leave the UAE and then return once I have been approved?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can have a multiple entry visa during the tenure of this programme; however you cannot be out of the country for more than 6 months continuously or your visa will be automatically nullified.

Question 37

Will I be able to rent a property myself, or will I have to book via a hotel or holiday homes operator?

Accepted Answer

It is possible to rent a property with the Emirates ID; however most private rentals are for a 1-year contract only. For short- and medium-term letting, you can look at holiday homes and hotel accommodation as alternatives.

Question 38

Will I be able to take a loan out from a bank with this programme?

Accepted Answer

This will be at the local banks’ discretion based on their criteria and your eligibility.

Question 39

Will I be able to buy or rent a car under this programme?

Accepted Answer

Renting a car is possible with an Emirates ID. Buying a car is possible but financing the purchase will be at the local banks’ discretion based on their criteria and your eligibility.

Question 40

Will I be able to apply to send my children to school in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you will be able to enrol in Dubai’s education facilities.

Question 41

Will I be able to hire a nanny or driver?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but this can only be done via a third-party agency; you will not be able to sponsor one yourself

Question 42

Are you able to renew the visa after one year?

Accepted Answer

As this programme is for one year only, you will need to re-apply as per the standard application process.

Question 43

Will I be able to rent an office?

Accepted Answer

It is possible to rent a property with an Emirates ID; however most private rentals are for a 1-year contract only. For short- and medium-term letting, you can check with Dubai’s many co-working space operators, accelerators and incubators.

Question 44

What working spaces are available in Dubai to use?

Accepted Answer

Dubai has a wealth of co-working spaces offering flexible packages ranging from hour-long meeting rooms through to weekly, monthly or quarterly bookings. These can also be rented as a hot desk or private desk. Dubai’s hotels also have many business centres for use, and most cafés and shopping centres also offer free or paid Wi-Fi options.

Question 45

Will I be able to sponsor other family members or friends who want to visit Dubai?

Accepted Answer

Under the programme, you will be able to sponsor your spouse and children.

Question 46

Is any currency acceptable for the monthly income?

Accepted Answer

Yes. However, the equivalent should be a minimum of US$5000 monthly.

Question 47

Can I come to Dubai on a tourism visa and transfer to this programme once there

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can come on a standard tourism visa, get acquainted with the city and apply to transfer to the one year programme once you’re ready. Please note that fees can change depending on whether you are applying from within Dubai or from overseas.

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