Dubai travel restrictions – Can I travel to Dubai right now?

Can I travel to Dubai right now? Short answer - Yes. Long answer - there are a few things you should keep in mind before traveling to Dubai. Here's all about the travel restrictions currently implemented in Dubai.

Disclaimer: This blog is updated weekly to the best of our knowledge. For the latest travel advisories, we recommend checking the official government website.

Travel Restrictions in Dubai - An Overview

Dubai reopened its borders to international visitors on 7 July 2020, after a three-month hiatus. All tourists and visitors (GCC countries included) are required to producea negative COVID-19 PCR test taken no more than 72 hours of departure time, and all test results must be presented either in English or Arabic in original, physical form (Digital copies will not be accepted).

If your test result is positive, you must stay in isolation for 14 days. If you violate home quarantine rules, you would be liable to a fine of AED 50,000.

Transportation Restrictions in Dubai

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority has updated the public transport schedule in line with new restrictions on movement to limit the spread of Covid-19. In addition to the change in timings, here are the key restrictions in place:

• Masks are compulsory on all modes of transport. Failure to wear a face mask could result in a Dhs3,000 fine.
• No more than two (2) passengers at a time can travel in a taxi. The exception to this is Hala Taxi Vans, which can accommodate four passengers.
• Buses and metros are allowed only a limited number of passengers. A minimum of 1m must be maintained between everyone in the bus at all times.

Eating out in Dubai - Restrictions

• All bars and restaurants in the city are required to stop serving and halt “entertainment activities” at 1 a.m.
• Hotels are mandated to cease providing food and beverage services after 3am, with the exception of delivery and room service.
• Diners at restaurants will be limited to seven per table and to four people in cafes. Tables will be placed 3 meters apart, or have dividers in between them.
• You may remove your mask to eat and drink while seated at a restaurant table.

Tourist Attractions that are now open in Dubai

Here are all the tourist landmarks and attractions that are now open in Dubai.

Dubai Travel Protocols

As of 31 January 2021, the UAE government has announced a number of changes to the travel protocol for passengers arriving or departing from Dubai.

• Those returning to Dubai from overseas (GCC countries included) are required hold a negative COVID 19 PCR test certificate taken no more than 72 hours before departure. UAE nationals are exempt from the above, but will be required to take a PCR test on arrival at Dubai airport.
• Children under 12 years of age and passengers who have a moderate/severe disability are exempt from the COVID‑19 PCR test
• Transit passengers from some countries are are required to present a negative COVID‑19 PCR test certificate for a test taken no more than 72 hours before departure, as well as to follow any requirements mandated by their final destination.

Who Can Visit Dubai Now?

Quarantine Rules in Dubai

Upon arrival in Dubai, a quarantine undertaking form distributed by the Dubai Health Authority is to be filled and submitted. You may need to take another COVID‑19 PCR test on arrival and remain in your hotel or residence until you receive the test result.

If your test result is positive, you must stay in isolation for 14 days. If you violate home quarantine rules, you would be liable to a fine of AED 50,000.

The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) announced on 6th January 2021, that the quarantine time for mild and asymptomatic Covid-19 cases had been reduced to 10 days. This also applies to those who may have been in contact with someone infected with COVID-19. If you’ve come in close contact with a Covid-19 patient, you must quarantine yourself at home for a period of 10 days.

Tips For Staying Safe in Dubai

• The risks of getting COVID-19 are higher in crowded and inadequately ventilated spaces where infected people spend long periods of time together in close proximity. Make sure to maintain a minimum of 2 metres (6 feet) from others at all points.
• Always carry a sanitizer with you and sanitize often.
• Masks are a must, but gloves are optional.
• Avoid public transportation if you can and travel in your own vehicle.
• Avoid greeting people by shaking their hands or hugging or kissing them.
• Outdoor gatherings are safer than indoor ones, so opt for beaches and parks instead of malls and indoor spaces for recreational activities
• If you're planning to visit a landmark or tourist attraction, make sure to check for tickets in advance and book a slot
• A lot of establishments have closed due to the pandemic. It is worth checking over call before heading out there.
• If you have a fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately. Call by telephone first, if you can and follow the directions of your local health authority.
• Stay home and self-isolate even with minor symptoms such as cough, headache, mild fever, until you recover.

COVID Travel Resources Dubai

• FAQs about COVID-19- Department of Health - Abu Dhabi
• Government mandated guidelines related to COVID-19
• For latest details, follow these handles on Twitter Dubai Health Authority - @dha_dubai, Ministry of Health and Prevention - @MoHaPUAE, The Department of Economic Development - @Dubai_DED and The Dubai Municipality Twitter @DMunicipality