COVID-19: Testing requirements reduced for Abu Dhabi

The Abu Dhabi Emergency, Crisis and Disasters Committee has removed the COVID-19 testing requirement to enter the Abu Dhabi.

Key Points:

• As of Sept. 19, individuals are no longer required to present a negative COVID-19 test when entering Abu Dhabi but must be fully vaccinated.
• Abu Dhabi residents and residents of other Emirates other than Dubai can check their return eligibility status here.
• Dubai Residents should apply for return permit approval here.

Additional Information: Some nationalities are now allowed to return without a General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) approval. The notification will be flagged when the employee enters their file number on the GDRFA website. The decision to reduce testing requirements follows the committee’s announcement that that COVID-19 infection rate is at 0.2 percent of total tests taken. Recently, officials reduced travel restrictions and quarantine requirements for individuals arriving from many countries.

BAL Analysis: Inbound travelers now face fewer restrictions and requirements when entering Abu Dhabi. The response to the COVID-19 pandemic continues to develop, and BAL will provide additional updates as information becomes available.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice Group. For additional information, please contact berryapplemanleiden@bal.com.

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