Dubai Airport authorities are conducting random PCR tests on arrival for some flights as part of its ongoing efforts to contain the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the updated guidelines, COVID-19 screening on arrival is mandatory for passengers on Emirates flights from more than 50 countries, including India, Pakistan, Brazil, and Russia.

However, in view of current circumstances, authorities are carrying out additional testing on flights not included on the red list. As per a statement issued by the Dubai Media Office, Dubai Airport is conducting random tests upon arrival for certain flight as part of the extra precautionary measures.

If a PCR test result comes positive, passenger would be asked to isolate at home for 10 days, with the first day starting from the day PCR test was taken, even without presenting any COVID-19 symptoms.

People with positive test results are also required to download the Covid-19 DXB app, or they will be penalised with a potential Dh10,000 ($2,722) fine.

In addition, a second PCR test is not needed after the completion of the isolation period.

In addition, as per the latest information issued by Emirates and Etihad airlines, passengers travelling to Dubai and Abu Dhabi from all countries (GCC included) are required to present a negative COVID‑19 RT‑PCR test certificate taken within 72 hours before the departure of the flight.

Travellers can present an official printed or digital certificate in English or Arabic of the test result during check-in as SMS certificates will not be accepted.

Additionally, COVID‑19 PCR certificates in other languages will be accepted if they can be validated at the originating testing location.

In view of the highly contagious Omicron COVID-19 variant, UAE authorities are ensuring robust measures to contain the spread of the virus. The UAE is witnessing a steady rise in daily case numbers in recent weeks, from less than 50 in early December to 1,846 on Tuesday. COVID-19 testing has also been increased to break the chain of transmission.

Earlier, the UAE authorities suspended travel from several African nations due to a surge in Omicron infections. Passengers seeking to travel to Dubai who have been in or transited through Ethiopia, Kenya, Nigeria or Tanzania in the past 14 days are not allowed to enter the emirate.

Meanwhile, diplomats, UAE citizens and their first-degree relatives, staff and those with a Golden Visa are exempted from the updated protocols.

Dubai has also issued safety measures for New Year's Eve celebrations, mandating wearing face masks and following social distancing rules. According to Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed, Chairman of Dubai’s Supreme Committee of Crisis and Disaster Management, these measures will prove helpful in keeping the public safe against COVID-19.

“Every member of the community should stringently observe the preventive guidelines in place, including wearing face masks and observing social distancing, to protect their families and others,” he said.