As of today, June 1, UAE residents who are stranded abroad are permitted to return to the country. However, a warning to those looking to book plane tickets has been issued.
According to Gulf News, a caution has been posted on the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) website telling residents not to book tickets unless they have approval from the authority.
“Please don’t book or buy your travel tickets and travel, unless you obtain the approval of the application, as reviewing your application may take some time,” the notice reportedly said. “After getting the application approvals, please proceed to book your travel tickets as per your actual traveling dates.”
Many residents have been stranded abroad for over two months due to flight suspensions and arrival visas being suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
This clarification comes after it was confirmed in an announcement last month from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MoFAIC) and the ICA residents would be allowed to return to the UAE from June 1 onwards.
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“The UAE is keen to facilitate the procedures for holders of valid UAE residency outside the country to reunite with their families who were affected by the precautionary measures taken by the country in light of the current exceptional circumstances to combat COVID-19,” the authorities said in a joint statement.
In order to apply, foreign nationals who hold a valid residency visa for the UAE should register for the ‘Residents’ Entry Permit’ on this website: smartservices.ica.gov.ae.
For those entering the country there are stringent precautions being taken, which have been previously outlined by Dubai-based airline Emirates.
“Stringent entry restrictions remain in place upon arrival in Dubai which includes: a mandatory DHA test on arrival; a mandatory 14-day quarantine and a follow up test before release,” the statement said.
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