Dubai exempts GCC countries, UK and Germany from pre-flight PCR tests

Dubai exempts GCC countries, UK and Germany from pre-flight PCR tests

In an extraordinary move, Dubai has exempted all passengers arriving from four GCC countries from prior COVID-19 PCR tests.

The Dubai Airports authorities said the travellers would undergo a test when they arrive in the emirate's airport.

Passengers would be asked to take a complimentary COVID“‘19 PCR test on arrival in Dubai.

UAE's leading airline Emirates gave details of the process.

Emirates said on its website, "All passengers arriving in Dubai from the GCC countries: Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman are not required to take a COVID“‘19 PCR test prior to departure.“

It also said, "You can opt to do the test on arrival at Dubai International Airport. This is not applicable to passengers arriving by road through the Hatta border, who must take the PCR test 96 hours from the date of the test before departure.“

Emirates also said, "The test on arrival in Dubai also applies to passengers travelling from the United Kingdom and Germany.“

However, passengers still have the option of taking the test 96 hours before departure in their country of origin.

Emirates clarified that COVID“‘19 PCR test requirement rules would apply to tourists travelling to