Dubai Airport is carrying out random PCR tests on arrival for some flights as part of efforts to limit the spread of Covid-19.
Screening on arrival is already mandatory on Emirates flights from more than 50 countries, including Brazil, India, Pakistan and Russia.
But authorities have confirmed additional testing is being carried out on flights not included on this list.
“PCR tests are mandatory for the flights mentioned on Emirates’ website,” said a Dubai Media Office statement.
“However, as part of the extra precautionary measures, Dubai Airport may conduct random tests upon arrival for certain flights.”
Residents returning to Dubai in recent days posted on social media about how they had been asked to complete PCR tests on arrival at Dubai International from the UK, which is not on the list of countries from which a swab on arrival is compulsory.
Positive tests require passengers to isolate at home for 10 days from the first day a PCR test is taken, even without showing symptoms of Covid-19.
Those testing positive must also download the Covid-19 DXB app, or face a potential Dh10,000 ($2,722) fine.
A second PCR test is not necessary after the isolation period is complete.
According to the latest information from Emirates and Etihad, passengers travelling to Dubai and Abu Dhabi from all countries (GCC included) must have a negative Covid 19 RT PCR test certificate for a test taken no more than 72 hours before departure.
Travellers must bring an official printed or digital certificate in English or Arabic to check-in because the airline will not accept SMS certificates.
Covid 19 PCR certificates in other languages are acceptable if they can be validated at the originating testing station.
Source: The National
