UAE Lifts 'No Transit or Transfer' Ban for Flights from 12 Countries Including India and Pakistan

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[Asia Economy Reporter Geum Bo-ryeong] The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is easing transit and transfer restrictions for air travelers coming from countries with severe COVID-19 outbreaks.

According to foreign media on the 4th (local time), the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) of the federal government will lift transit and transfer restrictions for 12 countries, including India and Pakistan, starting from the 5th. The UAE government had previously restricted international airport transfers for travelers coming from 12 countries with severe COVID-19 variant outbreaks.

Travelers wishing to transit or transfer through UAE airports must present a negative PCR test certificate obtained within 72 hours prior to departure.

The authorities also mentioned plans to allow UAE residents who have been fully vaccinated abroad to return home.