UAE residents who have been stranded abroad for the past few months due to the COVID-19 pandemic no longer need approval to re-enter the country, it has been announced.

In a statement issued by the National Emergency and Crisis Management Authority and the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, it was confirmed that the registration and waiting for approval process has been replaced with pre-approvals being granted without the need to submit an application in order to return to the country.

Both authorities said this was part of the “second phase of residents’ return” from Wednesday, 12 August, which was in conjunction with the end of the summer holidays for many students who will be returning to school, university and other educational institutions.

The Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship advised that to “ensure that the procedures are completed easily” that those residents returning should update their details on this website – https://uaeentry.ica.gov.ae – to verify travel documents.

It is still mandatory for all travellers including UAE residents to undergo a COVID-19 test no more than 96 hours before the intended date of travel. Upon residents’ arrival in the country, everyone is required to adhere to the precautionary guidelines in place, including required self-isolation and laboratory test.

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