AR
UR
Indian and Pakistani expats are lauding the UAE government's directive to remove the rapid COVID-19 PCR test requirement at certain departure airports for Dubai-bound passengers.
Earlier an updated circular, effective from February 22, was sent to travel agents and airlines. It outlines that authorities have not specified the requirement for rapid tests at the exiting airports for passengers from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka within six hours of the flight.
In response to this development, Dubai expats from the sub-continent expressed happiness towards returning to normalcy.
Pakistani expat in Dubai Naila Khan was stuck in her hometown (Karachi) for six months before returning to Dubai in September 2021. Speaking in this regard, she expressed joy towards the updated protocols.
"I had a harrowing experience with my two children at the Karachi airport in the middle of 2021 when I was stuck there, desperately trying to come back. At that time there was no facility for a rapid PCR test at the Karachi airport. Passengers felt harassed not knowing what to do," she said.
She added that the facility started in the country in mid-August, following which she had to leave her home hours in advance to get to the airport to fulfil rapid PCR test formalities. She shared the difficulties faced by her parents and children while waiting for the formalities to get over.
"Today when I saw the news I was overjoyed. I have managed to assure my kids that things are getting better as governments begin to relax COVID-19 related travel rules gradually. We hope to return to Pakistan soon for another holiday,” she added.
However, passengers travelling from these countries to Dubai are required to present a negative PCR test result taken within 48 hours of flight departure. They are also required to undergo PCR test on arrival in Dubai and self-quarantine till they get their test results.
Indian expat Arijit Nandi welcomed the news, noting that it will ensure ease of travel.
"My parents and in-laws have been wary of travelling to Dubai particularly because of this reason. For elderly people, it’s an additional hassle. Apart from all the paperwork that they need to complete and the normal PCR test that needs to be done, this additional layer of a rapid PCR test always was a huge cause of tension for my parents and in-laws. Needless to say, the test is also very expensive," he said.
He pointed out that the overall travel time increases due to the rapid PCR test formalities. He further affirmed that the news is a relief, particularly for the elderly population who are waiting to visit their children in Dubai for a long time.
People also discussed how countries across the world are effectively handling the COVID-19 pandemic impact, expressing hope towards the easing of last remaining restrictions to curb the spread of the virus.
Priyadarshee Panigrahi, Senior Business Management Professional based in Dubai, welcomed the move wholeheartedly, adding that it will enhance convenience for travellers.
"I feel that doing away with the rapid PCR requirement is the right thing to do. For a family to travel back to the UAE, it was inconvenient to reach the airports early for these tests and then wait for their results. The problem was compounded if you have young children, who become restless from such long waits," he said.
He further noted that costs of Rapid PCR tests were high compared to regular RT PCR tests. It will save cost and time for big families, looking forward to travelling to Dubai.
Hozefa Arsiwala said that the decision has come as a blessing as it will allow swift travel movement at airports.
“What a relief it is to know that the rapid PCR test is not required anymore. This not only will save cost, but also the time that was spent at the airport. As a parent, it’s very difficult to wait for long hours in public places, especially for families with young children. This decision is a blessing," Arsiwala added.
SOURCE : Khaleej Times