Essential Information on UAE Repatriation Flights in Light of COVID-19

In Dubai and Abu Dhabi, UAE, the government approved services started operations on taking people to neighboring countries in order for them to go back home. Repatriation flights are also available for passengers that are citizens or permanent residents of their destinations. 

Repatriation flights in UAE can be booked via official websites of operating airlines such as Emirates and Etihad. UAE repatriation flights are considered non-refundable. Any change to the destination may not be allowed. As the current circumstances can change, it’s advised to speak with an immigration lawyer in Dubai, UAE to check eligibility for traveling to or from UAE. 

Flight requirements for locals and residents to UAE

Those who are planning to get back to Abu Dhabi or Dubai are required in seeking the approval of UAE government authorities prior to booking flights. An immigration lawyer in Dubai will be able to help increase the likelihood of applications getting approved. Once approved, a resident will be receiving a letter from (MOFA) UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which contains an approval code. The code and the letter both need to be secured as they will be checked by airlines. Travelers aren’t allowed to book with them. Residency or citizenship in UAE is also required. 

A health declaration also has to be printed and completed, stating that the traveler is fit for travel. Health insurance is also required. It has to be valid and printed. Other forms may be required by government authorities and airlines such as forms acknowledging the responsibility for implementing self-quarantine and following measures in preventing COVID-19 spread. All requirements are also to be handed to the health authorities in the UAE. 

Reminders for UAE repatriation flights

• All flights are only one way and for repatriation only. Flights are to carry citizens to select countries.
• All flights will be subject to approvals by government authorities and will operate once approvals have been completed.
• Meals won’t be served in repatriation flights.
• If a passenger doesn’t travel on the particular flight that was booked, the ticket can neither be refunded or changed.
• All residents of Dubai that hold valid residency visas can reenter UAE; however, they are to take the approval of government authorities.
• Residents of UAE that hold visas from emirates apart from Dubai have to approach government authority on identity and citizenship to secure their approval to travel within the UAE.
• The GDRFA has the discretion in accepting or rejecting applications to travel, which will depend on the reasons provided by passengers for traveling in the country.
• Travelers are to carry approvals received from authorities while traveling to UAE.
• For the quarantine procedure, passengers are to take the Polymerase Chain Reaction test that is accepted by the UAE authorities. Passengers are to stay in the house or to self-quarantine until the result is given.

If you have questions or you want further clarification on repatriation flights in UAE, call us today here in HHS Lawyers !