Manama: Residents returning to the UAE will no longer need the mandatory ICA / GDRFA travel permit, according to the state media.
The revised rule came into effect on Wednesday, which stated that approval from the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) or General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) were not required to enter the country. However, mandatory pre-flight covid-19 tests will remain in force, according to the ICA.
Expats who wish to return to the country should update their personal data, ID and passport numbers with the ICA website, authorities announced. They are required to take a RT-PCR test not more than 96 hours prior to the journey at an accredited lab. The negative result should be produced to the airline's staff before departure and upon requests.
Earlier, the ICA permit was mandatory for all UAE residents stuck abroad. The ICA is managing visas issued by Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah and GDRFA issued visas to Dubai emirate. Dubai resident visa holders have to obtain permission from GDRFA. Now, this is not required permission if they arrive at any of the airports across the country.
On Monday, Abu Dhabi Emirates waived off the mandatory approval for people travelling into the emirates.
In addition, those with visas from Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah must register on ICA via smart channels to be able to travel to the UAE, the report said.
To facilitate their return, the Federal Authority for Identity will automatically grant pre-approval for expatriate residents wishing to return without the need to apply for an entry permit.
A 14-day quarantine is required for all passengers returning to the UAE. Violating quarantine rules can lead to a fine of 20,000.
On arrival from certain countries like India, passengers are required to take a Covid-19 test. All precautionary and preventive measures will be applied to all residents upon arrival, said the authority.
The move was announced by the National Emergency and Crisis Management Authority as part of the second phase of the return of expat residents to the UAE.
