UAE residents stuck outside the UAE have gradually started returning to the UAE.
Image Credit: Ahmed Ramzan/Gulf News
2 of 25
But if you are still wondering whether you need to apply for an ICA or GDRFA approval, here is all you need to know.
Image Credit: Ahmed Ramzan/Gulf News
3 of 25
Air India Express, one of the airlines operating during the special flights announced between the UAE and India, provided detailed guidelines to people returning to the UAE.
Image Credit: Ahmed Ramzan/Gulf News
4 of 25
If you are arriving at Dubai airport, you would need a valid GDRFA approval, along with a negative COVID-19 test result. Apply for the approval here: https://smart.gdrfad.gov.ae/Smart_OTCServicesPortal/ReturnPermitServiceForm.aspx
Image Credit: Ahmed Ramzan/Gulf News
5 of 25
The RT-PCR test must be done at a government-approved laboratory.
Image Credit: Ahmed Ramzan/Gulf News
6 of 25
Read the detailed guidelines for Dubai-bound passengers here: https://gulfnews.com/1.1593005179979
Image Credit: Ahmed Ramzan/Gulf News
7 of 25
You would also need to download the COVID-19 DXB Smart app.
Image Credit: Ahmed Ramzan/Gulf News
8 of 25
If your GDRFA approval is expired, you will not be allowed to board.
Image Credit: Ahmed Ramzan/Gulf News
9 of 25
Returning to Abu Dhabi - you would need an ICA approval. Apply for the approval here: https://beta.smartservices.ica.gov.ae/echannels/web/client/guest/index.html#/issueResidentEntryPermission/request/708/step1?administrativeRegionId=1&withException=false
Image Credit: Ahmed Ramzan/Gulf News
10 of 25
You may also need a negative COVID-19 test result, if you are returning from certain countries, including India.
Image Credit: Ahmed Ramzan/Gulf News
11 of 25
You would also need to sign a quarantine undertaking form.
Image Credit: Ahmed Ramzan/Gulf News
12 of 25
If your ICA approval has expired, you will not be allowed to board.
Image Credit: Ahmed Ramzan/Gulf News
13 of 25
Returning to Sharjah - you can apply for an ICA or GDRFA approval.
Image Credit:
14 of 25
Picture used for illustrative purposes only.
Image Credit: Ahmed Ramzan/Gulf News
15 of 25
Picture used for illustrative purposes only.
Image Credit: Ahmed Ramzan/Gulf News
16 of 25
If the approval has expired, you will not be allowed to board.
Image Credit: Ahmed Ramzan/Gulf News
17 of 25
According to Air India Express, you can travel to Abu Dhabi, Dubai or Sharjah using the ICA approval.
Image Credit:
18 of 25
The GDRFA approval is valid if you are travelling to Dubai or Sharjah.
Image Credit: Ahmed Ramzan/Gulf News
19 of 25
Is COVID-19 RT-PCR test mandatory?
Image Credit: Ahmed Ramzan/Gulf News
20 of 25
Picture used for illustrative purposes only.
Image Credit: Ahmed Ramzan/Gulf News
21 of 25
Airports are also conducting the test on arrival.
Image Credit: Ahmed Ramzan/Gulf News
22 of 25
Picture used for illustrative purposes only.
Image Credit: Ahmed Ramzan/Gulf News
23 of 25
Picture used for illustrative purposes only.
Image Credit: Ahmed Ramzan/Gulf News
24 of 25
Can I travel from India to the UAE on a tourist visa?
Image Credit: Ahmed Ramzan/Gulf News
25 of 25
The special flights operating between India and UAE are currently only for returning UAE residents.
Image Credit: Ahmed Ramzan/Gulf News
This website stores cookies on your computer. These cookies are used to improve your experience and provide more personalized service to you.
Both on your website and other media. To find out more about the cookies and data we use, please check out our Privacy Policy.
