Do I need a COVID-19 test before flying out of UAE?

Depending on which emirate your are flying out of, the requirement may change.

According to NCEMA, passengers travelling out of the UAE need to get a COVID-19 test done 48 hours before travelling.

If you are flying out of Dubai, though, guidelines by Dubai Media Office do not mention the requirement.

The COVID-19 test will only be for passengers arriving at Dubai airports from other destinations.

Guidelines for arrivals in Dubai refer to how passengers would need to get a PCR test upon arrival at Dubai airports.

Tourists have the option of showing a PCR test, valid for 96 hours or carry out a test at Dubai airports.

PCR test must be taken upon your return, with a 14-day quarantine imposed if you test positive.

Guidelines for Dubai residents returning to the UAE
You need an approval from the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai.

Visa holders from other emirates would still need to get approvals through the Federal Authority of Identity and Citizenship (ICA) before travelling to the UAE.
Emirates airlines is operating limited passenger flights to carry residents from selected destinations back to Dubai. These are the guidelines issued by the carrier.

You can apply for the GDRFA approval from the Emirates website.
If you are a Dubai resident, contact Emirates Call Centre (600 555555) for any help with your booking and application for approval to travel. 

Or you can complete the application independently on GDRFA website directly. The link is given below.
https://smart.gdrfad.gov.ae/Smart_OTCServicesPortal/ReturnPermitService.aspx

What is the Resident File Number?
When you fill GDRFA form, you will be asked to enter your resident file number which is 15 digit file number mentioned on the visa stamped on your passport.
You will receive an instant response if the application is approved. If not, you can try again later.

Do not book a flight ticket unless you receive the GDRFA approval.
Make sure you have a copy of GDRFA approval email with you when you book Emirates ticket.

You would need to fill in a health declaration form and a quarantine undertaking form as well. Both forms need to be printed, completed and handed over to Dubai Health Authority staff at arrival.

The quarantine undertaking form will only go into effect if you need to undergo quarantine. 

Once you reach Dubai, you will undergo a PCR test at the airport and you are required to stay in quarantine until you receive the test result. If you test positive, you will need to stay in quarantine for 14 days.

You must also download the Alhosn app. Read more about it here:

If you do not have health insurance, you need to sign an undertaking that you will bear any cost of COVID-19 treatment and quarantine.

Flights from India
According to a circular issued by India's Directorate General of Civil Aviation (GDCA) on June 26, 2020, commercial flights will remain suspended until July 15.
People who had booked flights will be able to use the tickets when flight operations resume.

GoAir will be allowing customers to re-book their tickets within a year.

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