Approved Covid Tests for travel to UAE

Latest Updates

Last updated 4 October 2021

As of 23 February, UK residents returning to Dubai need to get approval before travelling, whilst those returning to other parts of the UAE no longer need to get approval. Please see the government website for further guidance on entry to the UAE.

All tourists, visitors and residents travelling from or through the UK and arriving in Dubai or Abu Dhabi must have a negative Covid-19 PCR test which was taken no more than 72 hours before departure and must present this at arrival.

From 4am on Monday 4 October 2021, the rules for international travel to England have changed from the red, amber, green traffic light system to a single red list of countries and simplified travel measures for arrivals from the rest of the world. The rules for travel from countries and territories not on the red list will depend on your vaccination status. Fully vaccinated travellers can book a day 2 test with free delivery. Not fully vaccinated or unvaccinated travellers can book their return antigen tests and day 2 and 8 travel packages with Medicspot. Further details can be found on our Covid test page.

UAE, Dubai and Abu Dhabi Travel Advice

Which Covid-19 test do I need to travel to the United Arab Emirates?

If you are travelling from the UK to Abu Dhabi you must undertake a negative Covid-19 PCR test 96 hours before travelling. You will also be required to undertake an additional Covid-19 PCR test upon arrival. Lastly, travellers entering Abu Dhabi are required to wear a government-provided wristband.

If you are travelling to Dubai from the UK then you can either provide evidence of a negative Covid-19 PCR test taken within 96 hours of travelling or take a PCR test upon arrival at Dubai airport instead. Those being tested on arrival are required to self-isolate pending the result of the test.

How much does a Covid-19 test cost for travel to the United Arab Emirates?

If you are travelling from the UK to the UAE, a Covid test costs £75. This covers both the PCR test and a Fit to Fly certificate.

Are Medicspot Covid tests approved by the UAE?

Yes. Medicspot tests and Fit to Fly certificates are recognised by both UAE airlines and the UAE government. This allows safe travel to Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

What documentation will I get following my Covid test in order to meet the United Arab Emirates’ travel requirements?

If your Covid-19 test is negative, Medicspot will provide you with negative test results as well as a Fit to Fly certificate. This documentation will be provided within the testing requirement window.

How long before my flight to Dubai or Abu Dhabi should I take a Covid test?

Travellers from the UK to Dubai or Abu Dhabi are required to take a negative PCR test 96 hours before their flight.

If my child is under 12 do they need a Covid test to travel to the UAE?

No, children under the age of 12 do not need to take a Covid-19 test in order to travel from the UK to the UAE. Those with severe and moderate disabilities are also exempt.

Will I still need to quarantine on arrival in the UAE if I have tested negative for Covid-19?

Potentially. If you are travelling to Abu Dhabi then you will be required to self-isolate for a minimum of 10 days. Depending on the length of your stay, you will be required to take up to two further Covid-19 PCR tests on day 6 and day 12.