uk to dubai travel rules

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Dubai travel restrictions: rules for travelling from the UK

Travel to Dubai was off limits for most of 2021. But in early August, the destination was finally  opened up to UK residents. Here’s what you need to know about heading there, and back to the UK.

What are Dubai's travel restrictions?

Dubai is open to travellers from the UK, and those who are fully vaccinated, or are under 12 years old or who have severe disabilities, do not need to show proof of a negative Covid test before entry. Travellers with a Covid-19 recovery certificate with a QR code dated within 30 days of departure also do not have to take a test. 

However, those who are not fully vaccinated must still take a PCR test before arrival. The RT-PCR test certificate must be in printed or digital format in English or Arabic – SMS certificates are not valid. It must include a QR code and show that the test was taken in an authorised facility. Certificates in other languages must be validated, and those that have been presented for previous journeys are not permitted.

Some fully vaccinated travellers may also be randomly selected to take a Covid-19 PCR test on arrival and will have to isolate pending the result of the COVID-19 PCR test. (When we personally visited in January 2022, we were asked to take a PCR test upon arrival at Dubai Airport, and were then able to go to our hotel where we received a text later that day confirming our results were negative.) 

Visitors to Dubai must have valid international health insurance before travelling, and will need to register their details on the Covid-19 DXB Smart App . 

Fully vaccinated travellers, as well as those who are not fully vaccinated, from the UK to Abu Dhabi will be required to have a PCR test on arrival but will not be required to quarantine. Entry requirements for Abu Dhabi and the rest of the United Arab Emirates may differ, so it's best to check the UAE government website directly for information on those emirates before travelling within the country.

Do I need a Covid vaccine to travel to Dubai?

No, although you will need to take a PCR test before travelling to Dubai if you are not fully vaccinated. The exceptions to this rule are children under 12, those with severe disabilities and anyone who has a recovery certificate with a QR code dated within 30 days of departure. 

Do tourists have to quarantine in Dubai?

Travellers may be required to take a PCR test on arrival in Dubai depending on which country you are arriving from – check the Emirates Airline website for the latest list . You may also be chosen to do a random PCR test on arrival, wherever you are coming from. If you are requested to take a PCR test, you may have to quarantine until the results are confirmed (although, as mentioned, in January 2022, we were asked to take a further test at Dubai Airport but were not asked to quarantine until the result was confirmed).

If the result is positive, you will need to isolate for 10 days, usually at a private address if suitable, or a hotel, hospital or government facility – ‘depending on your symptoms and your accommodation plans’, according to the UK government website . 

What are the rules for Brits returning to the UK from Dubai?

From 4am on Friday 18 March 2022 all travel rules in the UK will be lifted, meaning no travellers need to test, quarantine or fill in a passenger locator form, regardless of their vaccination status. 

Will travel to Dubai be restricted again?

It’s impossible to know what will happen in future as the Covid pandemic continues around the world. For now, if you're planning a trip, it's best to check the government website regularly to ensure you’re up-to-date with the latest news. We also recommend booking with a flexible flight and travel policy and investing in travel insurance with Covid cover for extra peace of mind.

Can I fly to Dubai and Abu Dhabi from the UK? Travel list restrictions explained

Both emirates require negative pcr tests taken before departure to the uae.

September 20, 2021

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Travel to and from the UAE: Rules you need to know

• Living In UAE
• The Kurator

Travel guidelines: India, Pakistan, Philippines, Gulf, Arab countries, UK, South Africa

Travelling to the UAE

As per the official UAE government website – u.ae – all travellers to the UAE must present a negative result of a PCR test at the airport of departure. How close to your flight’s departure time you need to get the test done will vary — depending on where you are travelling from. Here are the details:

Travelling to Dubai: rules as of November 30, 2021

Rules for Dubai residence visa holders

All UAE residents can travel to Dubai without an approval from the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRA) or Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICA), as per the u.ae,. However, residents travelling from the following countries will need an approval:

• South Africa

Exemptions:

Approval is not needed for those who got a newly-issued residence or employment visa, short-stay or long-stay visa, 10-year UAE golden visa, investor or partner visa, visit visa or visa on arrival. However, this exemption does not apply to new UAE residence visa holders travelling from Ethiopia.

Requirements for passengers from the above mentioned countries:

Passengers arriving from the countries mentioned above must present a printed or digital negative result (along with a QR code) of a COVID19 PCR test conducted at an approved health facility within 48 hours before departure.

They must also present a negative result (with a QR code) of a rapid PCR test conducted at the departure airport within six hours before departure.

Passengers who have been in the countries listed below in the 14 days preceding their scheduled/intended visit to Dubai, are not permitted to enter the emirate:

Rules for travel from France, Germany, Spain, Switzerland

All passengers travelling to Dubai from France, Germany, Spain, or Switzerland will be accepted for travel if they present either a:

•  Negative result for a COVID19 RTPCR test done no more than 72 hours before departure

•  A vaccination certificate for a vaccination administered in France, Germany, Spain, Switzerland or the United Arab Emirates.

The vaccination certificate(s) must reflect that the passenger has completed the required doses of a vaccine approved by the World Health Organisation [WHO] and accepted by France, Germany, Spain, Switzerland or the United Arab Emirates.

Rules for travel from the United Kingdom

All passengers travelling to Dubai from the UK must hold a negative result for a COVID19 PCR test done no more than 72 hours before departure. Note that test certificates issued by NHS are not accepted for travel from the United Kingdom.

Note: Passengers travelling from other countries must present a printed negative result of a COVID19 RT PCR test done no more than 72 hours before departure.

Note: SMS certificates are not accepted.

Certificates that have already been presented for travel to another destination cannot be used for reentry even if they are still within the validity period.

Transiting through Dubai

Anyone who transited through the below listed countries in the 14 days preceding their scheduled/intended visit to Dubai, is not permitted to enter the emirate:

Transit passengers

While the transit passengers must complete all the requirements of their final destination, Dubai mandates that transit passengers from the following countries must present a negative result for a COVID19 PCR test done no more than 72 hours before departure:

However, if the passengers from these countries have a connecting flight through Dubai and are planning to stopover in Dubai, then they must present a negative result (with a QR code) of a COVID19 PCR test conducted within 48 hours since the sample was taken at an approved health facility. In addition, they must also present a negative result (with a QR code) of a rapid PCR test conducted at the departure airport within six hours of departure.

Transit passengers from Ethiopia must present a negative result of a COVID19 PCR test done no more than 72 hours before departure.

All other transit passengers are not required to present this certificate unless it is mandated by their final destination.

Mandatory test on arrival (residents and tourists)

All passengers (residents and tourists) arriving in Dubai from the following countries will be required to take another COVID19 PCR test on arrival at Dubai’s airports:

Afghanistan, Angola, Argentina, Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Brazil, Cambodia, Chile, Democratic Republic of Congo, Djibouti, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Georgia, Ghana, Guinea, India, Iran, Iraq, Ivory Coast, Jordan, Kenya, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Liberia, Morocco, Myanmar, Namibia, Nepal, Nigeria, Pakistan, Philippines, Romania, Rwanda, Russia, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Slovakia, Somaliland, Somalia, South Africa, South Sudan, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Syria, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Tunisia, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Uganda, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, Vietnam, Zambia, Zimbabwe.

PCR test exemptions

The following people are exempt from getting a COVID-19 test at the departure airport, but have to undergo a test on arrival in Dubai:

• All UAE nationals returning to Dubai from any country.
• Non-UAE nationals accompanying a first-degree UAE national family member.
• Domestic workers accompanying a UAE national sponsor.

The following people are exempt from getting a COVID-19 test:

• Children below 12 years of age.
• Passengers with moderate to severe disabilities.

Note: Moderate or severe disability includes neurological disorders and intellectual or developmental disabilities. For example: Acute spinal cord injury, Alzheimer's disease, Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Ataxia, Autism spectrum, Bell's palsy, Brain tumours, Cerebral aneurysm, Cerebral palsy, Down Syndrome, Epilepsy and seizures

All other passengers, including those who are visually impaired, hearing impaired or physically challenged must hold a negative COVID19 RTPCR test certificate as per the requirements.

There may be specific test exemptions in your country of origin and final destination. Please check the requirements before you travel.

You must remain in your residence until you receive the test result. If the test result is positive, you will be required to undergo isolation and follow the guidelines of Dubai Health Authority.

You must also download the COVID19 – DXB Smart App, which is available for Apple and Android devices.

Travelling to the rest of the UAE - Travel update as of November 29, 2021

Suspended entry

The UAE suspended entry of all those travelling from or transiting through:

In the 14 days before coming to the UAE. The suspension is due to the COVID-19 Omicron variant.

This does not apply to official delegations, UAE nationals, diplomats and holders of UAE golden visa. However, they are required to undergo PCR tests prior to departure and on arrival to the UAE, in addition to 10-day quarantine after entering the UAE.

Rules for tourists

Citizens of all countries can visit the UAE for tourism, if they are fully vaccinated with one of the WHO-approved COVID-19 vaccines .  

They must undergo a rapid PCR test at the airport on arrival.

Download the Al Hosn app

The Al Hosn app is the official COVID-19 app, and a Green Pass on the app may be required to enter various events and venues.

Travellers wishing to receive the benefits provided to individuals vaccinated in the UAE can register information about their vaccination via the ICA platform or the Al Hosn app .

Travelling from India to the UAE

If you are travelling from India to the UAE, these are the steps you would need to follow:

1. Entry permit/GDRFA or ICA approval : An approval from the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRA) or Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICA) is not required for tourists travelling to the UAE.

If you are a UAE resident, you would need to apply for a GDRFA or ICA approval .

2. PCR test within 48 hours  - A valid negative COVID-19 PCR test certificate with a QR code for a test conducted within 48 hours is required; validity should be calculated from the time the sample was collected, prior to departure from an approved health facility.

3. A rapid PCR test report with a QR code for a test conducted at the departure airport within six hours of departure.

India travel guidelines

While India has extended the ban on scheduled international flights to the end of January 2022 , passengers from the UAE can still travel to India  as the UAE and India have signed an air travel agreement.

India’s Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MOHFW) also issued guidelines for international passengers arriving in the country on November 30, following concerns related to the latest COVID-19 variant.

“The existing guidelines have been revised in view of reporting of a new variant of SARS-CoV-2 (B.1.1.529; re-named Omicron) which has been now classified as Variant of Concern by the World Health Organisation (WHO),” the guidelines read.

These guidelines came into effect from December 1, 2021 and include special quarantine and genome testing requirements for passengers arriving in India from certain countries.

What are the’ red list’ countries?

List of countries from where travellers would need to follow additional measures on arrival in India, including post-arrival testing

(List updated on November 30, 2021)

• Countries in Europe including The United Kingdom
• New Zealand

Flying from the UAE to India

Based on the guidelines, these are the steps you need to complete:

1. Take a PCR test within 72 hours of your flight’s departure time. You would need to submit the negative result of this test while filling out the Air Suvidha form.

2. Submit self-declaration form on the online Air Suvidha portal – before the scheduled travel, including last 14 days travel details.

3. On arrival PCR test, a random sample of 2% of travellers will be asked to take a PCR test. If they test positive, the sample will be sent for genome testing and treatment will be followed as per laid down protocol. If the test result is negative, they will be asked to self-monitor their health for 14 days.

Important note: Based on each state’s requirements, you may also need to pay for on-arrival testing. This information will be provided by individual airport authorities.

4. If you are travelling from one of the countries that are listed as at risk , you will need to follow the following protocol:

• Submission of sample for post-arrival COVID-19 test at the point of arrival (self-paid). Such travellers will be required to wait for their test results at the arrival airport before leaving or taking a connecting flight.
• If they test negative, they will follow home quarantine for seven days. A re-test will be done on Day 8 of arrival in India; and if negative, further self-monitoring of their health is required for the next seven days.
• However, if such travellers test positive, their samples should be sent for genomic testing at one of the labs in the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG) laboratory network.
• They shall be managed at separate isolation facility and treated as per laid down standard protocol including contact tracing.
• The contacts of such positive case should be kept under institutional quarantine or at home quarantine monitored strictly by the concerned State Government as per laid down protocol.

Children exempted from PCR testing

The guidelines also provide exemptions from the PCR testing requirements to children:

Children under five years of age are exempted from both pre- and post-arrival testing. However, if found symptomatic for COVID-19 on arrival or during home quarantine period, they shall undergo testing and treated as per laid down protocol.

Travelling to Pakistan from UAE

Pakistan government has updated the guidelines for passengers travelling from the UAE to Pakistan, effective from December 8, 2021. All passengers travelling to Pakistan from UAE must be vaccinated. Foreign passports holders below the age of 18 are exempted.

• All passengers travelling to Pakistan from UAE must be vaccinated. Foreign passports holders below the age of 18 are exempted.
• Pakistan national passengers 15 years and above must be fully vaccinated before travelling to Pakistan. Passengers who are medically advised against COVID19 vaccination are also allowed, provided they have a medical certificate.

Non-vaccinated Pakistani nationals, travelling from the UAE or any other country are exempted from mandatory vaccination on the following conditions:

• Pakistani deportees
• Passengers who have an expired visa or Emirates ID or are illegal immigrants/deportees.
• Passengers who have pending legal cases.
• Passengers who are medically advised against COVID19 vaccination and have a medical certificate, stating the disorder.
• Pregnant women.
• Passengers who have been partially vaccinated in Pakistan.

There is no requirement of completing 14 days after second dose of vaccination.

All passengers 6-years old and above, travelling to Pakistan must present a negative certificate for a COVID19 RT PCR test, conducted within 48 hours before the departure of their flight.

Rapid antigen testing will be conducted for all passengers on arrival at any of the Pakistani airports. Effective December 8, 2021, passengers arriving in Pakistan through transit flights via Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar will also undergo Rapid Antigen testing on arrival.

Passengers between 6 and 12 years old who test positive for COVID19 on arrival in Pakistan will undergo a 10 day home quarantine, following strict Trace, Test and Quarantine (TTQ) protocols.

Forms and Apps

It is mandatory for passengers travelling to Pakistan to complete the personal details on the web portal or the App, and will be required to present a paper print of the form at the time of checkin. Pass Track registration (https://passtrack.nitb.gov.pk/login) is a requirement for preboarding.

The following passengers are exempted from the COVID19 PCR test requirement as well as PASS TRACK registration.

• Children aged five and under
• Incapacitated passengers
• High level international delegations

Travelling to the Philippines

The Philippines originally planned to allow the entry of fully-vaccinated international travellers and tourists from "green" countries, territories or jurisdictions tagged as "low risk” for COVID-19 from December 1 to 15. This is no longer the case.

On November 28, 2021, Manila announced fresh travel curbs for in-bound travellers from 7 more countries amid the new threat from Omicron. Travel rules are updated often. On Tuesday (December 7, 2021), the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) said they have agreed not to add more countries to the Philippines’ “red list”. On Friday (December 10), however, the Asian country added Portugal to the red list on Friday, December 10, 2021.

There are more than 30 destinations in the Philippines, including the world-famous Boracay, now open — but only for fully-vaccinated domestic tourists. Local governments in these destinations have lifted quarantine and PCR-test rules.

Philippines still closed to international tourists

A: “Yes”. At the moment, only "Balikbayans”, overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) , and those with long-term visas from green and yellow list countries — may be allowed entry to the Philippines. Omicron’s emergence has scuttled hopes for the revival of the tourism industry — which accounts for a significant chunk of the country's GDP, up to 12.8% in 2019.

If you plan to travel

If you plan to travel, it is best to keep tabs of fresh restrictions. The planned December 1 opening to fully-vaccinated international tourists was delayed amid the growing Omicron threat. There are hopes that Omicron's setback will be short-lived.

Travelling to other Gulf and Arab countries

Months after relaxing coronavirus-related travel restrictions, several Arab countries have reimposed curbs and banned flights with some parts of the world over concerns of the new virus variant Omicron. The latest moves dampen the mood for the New Year holidays.

The following is a glance at the restrictions and travel guidelines in place:

Saudi Arabia

Good news: From December 1, Saudi Arabia has lifted a health ban on direct flights from six countries, namely, India, Indonesia, Pakistan, Brazil, Vietnam and Egypt.

Now people can travel directly from these countries to Saudi Arabia without having to spend 14 days outside them before entering the kingdom. Mandatory arrival procedures in Saudi Arabia still include presenting a valid PCR certificate issued 72 hours before the flight, registration on the Qudum platform and institutional quarantine for five days regardless of the immunisation status outside the kingdom.

Bad news: Saudi authorities have introduced a temporary halt to flights with 14 African countries due to concerns over Omicron.

They are Malawi, Zambia, Madagascar, Angola, Seychelles, Mauritius, Comoros, South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Lesotho, and Eswatini. Accordingly, expatriates are denied entry into the kingdom if they have been in any of these countries within the last 14 days before arrival.

Citizens and expatriates allowed entry into the kingdom are required to quarantine for five days, including those who have been vaccinated.

On December 1, Saudi Arabia announced detecting its first case of Omicron in a citizen arriving from an unnamed North African country.

The Saudi General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) has recently instructed all airlines operating in the country to allow direct entry from all countries for passengers who received one dose of the vaccine inside the kingdom. The procedure took effect as of December 4.

Omicron concerns have prompted Kuwaiti authorities to suspend flights from 9 African nations starting from November 27 until further notice.

They are South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Lesotho, Eswatini, Zambia and Malawi. Expatriates arriving from these countries are barred from entering Kuwait unless they have stayed for at 14 days outside them.

Kuwaiti citizens coming from these countries have to go into institutional quarantine for seven days and undergo testing on arrival.

All arrivals in Kuwait are required to submit a negative PCR test certificate. Kuwait confirmed its first Omicron case Wednesday.

After a seven-month ban, as of August 1, expats are free to travel to Kuwait as long as they received two doses of an approved vaccine. They are the Pfizer-BioNTech, Oxford, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines.

Passengers who have received two doses of Sinopharm, Sinovac and Sputnik vaccines can only enter the country if they take a third dose of one of the vaccines recognised by Kuwait.

In an effort to head off the spread of new COVID-19 strains in the country, Oman updated its travel policy on November 27. According to the latest update, Omani citizens, foreign residents and travellers with valid visas are allowed to enter the country without prior approval.

Not permitted

Passengers arriving from South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Lesotho, Eswatini, and Mozambique and those who have been in these countries within 14 days from the date of arrival are not permitted to enter Oman.

Omanis, diplomats, health workers, and their families as well as citizens of these seven countries who have valid residence in Oman are excluded from the ban. However, they all are required to do a COVID-19 PCR test upon arrival and go into mandatory seven-day institutional quarantine. They will have to take another COVID-19 test on the sixth day.

Vaccine certificate

All arrivals in Oman are required to present a COVID-19 vaccine certificate containing a QR code stating that they have received two doses of any COVID-19 vaccine approved in Oman.

They are Pfizer/ BioNTech, Oxford Astrazeneca, Covishield AstraZeneca, Sputnik, Sinovac, Moderna, and Sinopharm, or a single dose of Johnson & Johnson. The last dose must have been received not less than 14 days before the arrival time.

Pre-registration

Moreover, all travellers coming to the sultanate are required before their arrival to: pre-register via (https://covid19.emushrif.om) and upload the vaccine and PCR certificates, both containing QR codes.

Should the passenger prefer to conduct the PCR test upon arrival, he/she shall pay the prescribed fees when registering. All arrivals in Oman are required to obtain international health insurance to cover the cost of one month's treatment of COVID- 19, with the exception of Omanis, citizens of the GCC states and travellers with a free treatment card.

Travellers under 18 and those with medically confirmed health conditions that prevent them from taking the vaccination against COVID-19 are exempted from presenting the vaccine and PCR certificates.

Non-residents of Qatar are required to register via a pre-registration system on www.ehteraz.gov.qa website and upload all relevant documents such as vaccine certificates at least three days before arrival.

Although pre-registration is optional for Qatar’s citizens and foreign residents, all individuals heading to the country are recommended to pre-register to facilitate their entry procedures upon arrival.

Moreover, a PCR test result is no longer required during the electronic pre-registration process. Instead, travellers must present the original copy of the PCR test result to the airlines to allow them to board the plane, or at the country’s ports. Qatari health authorities have the right to conduct random examinations of passengers upon arrival in the country.

All passengers must sign an undertaking and a pre-arrival acknowledgment form available on the Ministry of Public Health website, pre-registration platform ( www.ehteraz.gov.qa​ ) and airline online booking form.

PCR test required

Travellers must take a PCR test result at medical centres accredited by health authorities in the country of departure. The result must be negative and must be done 72 hours before arrival in Qatar.

Arrivals in Qatar should go to the COVID-19 test clinic at the access port should they experience any coronavirus-related symptoms and take the necessary isolation measures.

Recognised vaccines

Vaccines recognised by Qatar are BioNTech, Moderna, AsraZeneca and Johnson & Johnson, while the conditionally approved vaccines are Sinopharm, Sinovack, Sputnik and Covaxin.

A serology antibody test with a positive result is mandatory before travelling to Qatar for people with two doses of a conditionally approved vaccines and 14 days after the second dose, in which case only the traveller will be considered fully immune.

People, who have obtained two doses of a conditionally approved vaccine followed by one dose of Pfizer or Moderna vaccine and after 14 days from the last dose, will be considered fully immune.

The kingdom has placed 11 African nations on its travel Red List, banning travellers from them amid concerns over Omicron.

Travel ban for red-list countries

They are: South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Lesotho, Estwatini, Malawi, Mozambique, Angola, Zambia and Nigeria.

Passengers from the "Red List" countries, including those who have transited through them, are barred from entering Bahrain.

Exception is made for the Bahraini citizens and foreign residents.

Effective from November 14, the kingdom started applying domestic quarantine instead of obligatory institutional isolation for unvaccinated arrivals in the kingdom.

Travellers to Egypt are allowed entry provided they show documents proving they have been fully inoculated by vaccines recognised by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Egyptian Drugs Authority, with the second dose obtained at least 14 days earlier. The documents must contain the QR code.

Passengers are also required to show a negative PCR test conducted 72 hours at most before arrival in Egypt. Travellers from countries affected by new COVID-19 variants have to undergo the quick ID NOW testing.

Flights suspended

In response to the Omicron emergence, Egypt has temporarily suspended flights with South Africa. The flights are due to resume on December 16. Passengers coming aboard indirect flights from South Africa, Lesoto, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Namibia and Estwatini have to undergo the quick ID NOW test. Anyone testing positive is sent back on the same flight. Those testing negative have to go into domestic self-isolation for seven days and undergo a PCR test at the end of the quarantine period.

Except children under 12, all travellers going to Lebanon are required to show a negative PCR test result done at medical centres authorised in the country of departure 96 hours at most before results are released. The documents must contain a QR code.

Passengers, who do not show such negative results are barred from boarding flights to Lebanon. Holders of the PCR results, done in the US, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, South Korea, Japan and all European countries are exempted from the QR code. All arrivals at the Rafik Al Hariri airport in Beirut have to do a new PCR test upon arrival. Children under 12 and the UN peacekeepers are exempted from this testing. All carriers are obliged to charge Lebanon-heading passengers 50 dollars each as a cost of the PCR test.

Passengers, who have received the second dose of an anti-coronavirus vaccine at least two weeks before arrival in Lebanon, are exempted from the pre-departure test, but they have to do post-arrival testing.

Last October, Morocco halted until further notice flights with the UK, Germany, France and the Netherlands due to a spike in virus cases reported in them.

Last month, the North African kingdom banned travellers from South Africa, Botswana, Zambia, Lesotho, Estwatini, Mozambique and Zimbabwe due to Omicron concerns. As of November 29, Morocco stopped all incoming flights with the outside world for two weeks as a precaution against Omicron.

Prompted by Omicron concerns, Jordan last month, barred entry of foreign travellers from seven African countries unless they have stayed for at least 14 days elsewhere.

These countries are South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Lesotho and Estwatini.

Jordanians, arriving in the homeland from these countries, are held in institutional quarantine for 14 days.

According to the kingdom’s travel instructions, all passengers whether vaccinated or not are required to bring a negative PCR test from the country of departure. The test should be done within a maximum of 72 hours prior to departure.

Fully-vaccinated travellers from certain countries are no longer required to do a PCR test upon arrival in Jordan.

These are: Australia, Austria, Bahrain, Belarus, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, China, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Gibraltar, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Japan, , Kuwait, Latvia, Lithuania, Liechtenstein, Luxemburg, Malaysia, Malta, Morocco, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Oman, Palestine, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Romania, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Tunisia, Turkey, the UAE, the UK and the US.

All travellers are required to complete a health declaration if arriving by air, obtain health/travel insurance, and visit https://gateway2jordan.gov.jo/form to complete the required travel declaration and obtain a personal QR code mandatory for boarding.

Passengers have to present the documents upon arrival, including a negative PCR test result from the country of departure, and the vaccination certificate.

In case of a positive result, travellers must go into home quarantine for 14 days and do the PCR test on the 14th day of quarantine at their own expense.

Travel to the UK

Planning to travel to the UK? Here’s what you’ll need to know and expect.

Passenger locator form

All UK arrivals must complete a Passenger Locator Form before arriving in the UK. As of December 7, anyone entering the UK must also provide proof of a pre-departure negative COVID-19 test taken no more than 48 hours before travel. This applies to vaccinated passengers and children aged 12 and above.

Pre-departure test

When is it best time to take a pre-departure test? Take the test as close to your departure as possible. This is because omicron has a “reduced incubation period.” However, it must be done in the 48 hours before your departure time.

PCR test at Day 2 

Currently, anyone entering the UK must quarantine until they receive the results of a PCR test taken on their second day in the country. Unlike the pre-departure test, the Day 2 test must be a PCR test.

Therefore, you must book your day 2 test before you arrive at the airport to take your flight to the UK.

Anyone testing positive faces a 10-day quarantine.

All travellers from green list countries to England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland must book and pay for a day two test.

I’m only in the UK for less than 48 hours - do I still need to book a day 2 test?

Yes - if you’re travelling from abroad you will still need to book a day 2 test, even if you are in the UK for less than two days.

How do I get a day 2 test?

There are lots of different companies that you can book a test through online. But not all test providers are created equal.

In terms of private providers, some companies offer at-home options sent by mail, or in-person testing.

Approved vaccines

You must have had a complete course of one of the following vaccines at least 14 days before you arrive in England:

• Oxford/AstraZeneca
• Pfizer BioNTech
• Janssen (single dose vaccine)
• Sinovac-CoronaVac
• Sinopharm Beijing

These are the shots on the UK’s list of approved vaccines for in-bound travel.

2 dose vaccines or a combination?

• If you were vaccinated with a 2-dose vaccine, or a combination of them, you must have had both doses to be considered fully vaccinated for travel to the UK.
• This applies in all cases, even if you’ve recently recovered from COVID-19 and have natural immunity.
• Those who have had COVID-19 and have only had one dose of a 2 dose vaccine must follow the rules for unvaccinated arrivals.
• Where 2 doses of a vaccine are required for a full course, you can:
• Mix 2 different types of vaccine from the above list, for example Oxford/AstraZeneca and Sinopharm Beijing.

What about non-vaccinated travellers?

Non-vaccinated travellers to the UK from green list countries must do a pre-departure negative test and book and pay for a day two and day eight PCR test.

Non-vaccinated green travellers must also quarantine at home, or at the place they are staying, for 10 days.

Non-vaccinated arrivals into England may also present proof of a negative pre-departure test via the EU Digital COVID Certificate.

Non-vaccinated travellers quarantining in England may be able to end quarantine early via the Test to Release scheme. Test to Release does not apply in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Travelling to South Africa

If you’re travelling to South Africa, you are required to take a COVID19 PCR test. Download the COVID Alert South Africa app and complete the traveller health questionnaire before departure.

PCR test 

International arrivals must fly into Johannesburg, Durban or Cape Town within curfew hours, under the following conditions:

• All travellers must complete a screening form within 48 hours of their trip to produce on their device at the airport.
• On arrival, they must present a paper copy of a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of arrival.
• It must be signed by the person who took the test. You should take several copies, in case you have to hand them over at different stages.
• Those arriving without a test will be subject to an antigen test and will be quarantined for 10 days at their own expense if they test positive.

Screening 

Upon arrival, all visitors will be screened for any COVID-19 symptoms by Port Health, including a questionnaire prior to disembarking the flight as well as a temperature check.

Should the traveller’s temperature be over 37 degrees Celsius or exhibit any symptoms, secondary screening will be conducted, at the traveler’s cost.

All travellers are encouraged to abide by all COVID-19 health and safety protocols including sanitising of hands, wearing of masks and social distancing.

Children below the age of 5 years are exempted from COVID 19 PCR test.

Required forms and apps

All passengers must complete the traveller health questionnaire before arrival. All passengers must install the COVID Alert South Africa app prior to travel.

Leisure travel from the UAE

Online booking website Musafir said Turkey, Georgia and Armenia are among the most popular winter destinations from the UAE, with demand emerging for places such as Serbia and Albania as well. “The visa processes for these countries are quite hassle free; this combined with the activities on offer at scenic spots make these countries quite the perfect long weekend destination,” said Rajesh Babu, Chief Commercial Officer at Musafir. UAE citizens and residents can travel to Turkey under the following conditions:

All passengers must complete the required forms within 72 hours before departure.

For vaccinated passengers:

Present a vaccination certificate for an approved vaccine by EU/WHO/EMA. Passengers must have completed their COVID‑19 vaccination at least 14 days before arrival. A COVID‑19 PCR test is not required for vaccinated passengers.

Non‑vaccinated passengers:

• Submit a negative COVID‑19 PCR test result taken at most 72 hours before arrival in Turkey, or a Rapid Antigen test with a negative result taken within the last 48 hours before their arrival in Turkey,
• Present proof of recovery from COVID‑19 within the last 6 months.

Children below 12 years are exempted from the COVID‑19 PCR test and are not required to provide a vaccination certificate.

Quarantine 

Passengers who have been in South Africa, Botswana, Mozambique, Namibia and Zimbabwe in the last 14 days must submit a negative PCR Test result taken at most 72 hours before arrival to Turkey.

These passengers are subject to quarantine for 14 days at places determined by the governorships. Expenses for accommodation and transfers from airports will be borne by passengers. On the 10th day of quarantine, a PCR Test will be performed and if the result is negative, quarantine will be lifted. Passengers who do not have a PCR Test on the 10th day will remain in quarantine until the 14th day.

Passengers arriving from the above mentioned countries, must pay the accommodation fees before arriving to Turkey. Passengers who cannot prove that they have made the necessary payments to stay at the places determined by the governorships, shall not be allowed to board the plane by airline operators.

What do you need

Passengers must submit a pre-registration form (https://tinyurl.com/krzcafmu). This does not apply to:

• Citizens of Georgia residing in Georgia;
• Passengers with a COVID-19 vaccination certificate showing that they were fully vaccinated.

The vaccination certificate must be in English. Moreover, passengers with a positive COVID-19 test issued at most 100 days before arrival and a COVID vaccination certificate showing that they received one dose at least 14 days before arrival.

Vaccines accepted are: AstraZeneca (Vaxzevria), AZD1222 (SK Bioscience Co Ltd.), Covishield, Janssen, Moderna, Pfizer-BioNTech, Sinopharm and Sinovac. The vaccination certificate must be in English.

Passengers entering Georgia with a COVID-19 PCR test result will be required to undergo a further COVID-19 PCR test on the third day after entering Georgia at their own expense. Additionally, they must complete the online registration form and present the confirmation email at check in.

Travelling to Armenia

All passengers travelling to Armenia must have:

• A negative COVID-19 PCR test in Armenian, English or Russian taken at most 72 hours before arrival; or
• A COVID-19 vaccination certificate showing that they were fully vaccinated at least 14 days before arrival, are subject to a PCR test upon arrival at their own expense and self-isolation until test results are ready.

The certificate must show that they received: the first vaccine dose of Janssen at least 28 days before arrival; or the second dose of AstraZeneca, Moderna (Spikevax), Pfizer-BioNTech (Comirnaty), Sinopharm, Sinovac or Sputnik V at least 14 days before arrival.

This does not apply to:

• Passengers younger than 7 years;
• Citizens and residents of Armenia.

What do you need to travel?

All passengers travelling to Serbia must have:

• a negative COVID-19 RT-PCR test result issued at most 48 hours before arrival; or
• a COVID-19 vaccination certificate showing that they were fully vaccinated.

The certificate must be issued in Andorra, Armenia, Austria, Belgium, Cape Verde, Croatia, Cyprus, Czechia, Egypt, Estonia, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, India, Ireland (Rep.), Italy, Lebanon, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Malta, Moldova (Rep.), Morocco, Netherlands, Romania, San Marino, Serbia, Spain, Slovakia, Slovenia, Switzerland, Tunisia, Turkey, Ukraine, the UAE or the UAE. Details can be found at https://www.mfa.gov.rs/en/citizens/travel-serbia/covid-19-entry-requirements;

A COVID-19 recovery certificate issued in Andorra, Austria, Bulgaria, Cape Verde, Croatia, Denmark, Estonia, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Ireland (Rep.), Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Romania, San Marino, Serbia, Slovenia, Spain, Switzerland, Tunisia, Turkey or the USA.

Passengers must have tested positive at least 14 days and at most 6 months before arrival. This doesn’t apply to:

• Citizens and residents of Serbia.
• Citizens of Slovenia.
• Children younger than 12 years. They must be accompanied by a parent, custodian or an adult from the same household.
• Passengers between 12 years and 18 years. They must take an antigen or RT-PCR test within 48 hours after arrival.
• Passengers arriving from India and the United States of America.
• Citizens of Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Hungary, Montenegro and North Macedonia (Rep.) if arriving from their country of nationality;
• Residents of Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Hungary, Montenegro and North Macedonia (Rep.) arriving from their country of residency;
• Passengers travelling on a business trip with an email confirmation from the Serbian Chamber of Commerce.
• Passengers in transit for less than 12 hours.
• Students who are citizens of Croatia studying in Serbia.
• Military personnel traveling on duty.
• Passengers arriving from Botswana, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa or Zimbabwe must have:

a negative COVID-19 RT-PCR test result issued at most 48 hours before arrival; or a COVID-19 vaccination certificate showing that they were fully vaccinated.

The certificate must be issued in Andorra, Armenia, Austria, Belgium, Cape Verde, Croatia, Cyprus, Czechia, Egypt, Estonia, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, India, Ireland (Rep.), Italy, Lebanon, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Malta, Moldova (Rep.), Morocco, the Netherlands, Romania, San Marino, Serbia, Spain, Slovakia, Slovenia, Switzerland, Tunisia, Turkey, Ukraine, the United Arab Emirates or the United Kingdom;

a COVID-19 recovery certificate issued in Andorra, Austria, Bulgaria, Cape Verde, Croatia, Denmark, Estonia, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Ireland (Rep.), Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Romania, San Marino, Serbia, Slovenia, Spain, Switzerland, Tunisia, Turkey or the USA. Passengers must have tested positive at least 14 days and at most 6 months before arrival. Details can be found at https://www.mfa.gov.rs/en/citizens/travel-serbia/covid-19-entry-requirements.

Passengers with a valid residence permit issued by the UAE can obtain a visa on arrival for a maximum stay of 90 days. The maximum stay is granted within 180 days. Passports must be valid for a minimum of 3 months from the arrival date. Passengers without a return or onward ticket could be refused to enter Albania.

PCR test, vaccination passport

All passengers, excluding children below 6 years old, entering or transiting Albania must have:

• a vaccination passport showing that they were fully vaccinated at least 14 days before arrival; or
• a negative PCR test no more than 72 hours before arrival or a rapid antigen test no more than 48 hours before arrival; or
• a COVID recovery certificate issued 6 months before arrival.

Citizens of Albania travelling to Albania without one of the above must self-isolate for 10 days and are subject to a PCR test at the end of the isolation period.

Citizens of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Egypt, India, Pakistan, Somalia and Syria must be able to provide a clear reason for travel and intentions during their stay and hold the additional documents mentioned below when travelling to Albania:

• A valid return ticket with the same booking confirmation number (PNR);
• A valid UAE residence visa issued at least 6 months before departure and must be valid for at least 3 months on the return to Dubai.
• A confirmed hotel booking or tour itinerary for the duration of stay in Albania; supporting documents, such as an invitation letter if travelling for business; sufficient funds for the duration of stay.

*  This article is based on information available on government sites as of 15 December, 2021. Please check official sources for latest information before you plan your journey.

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Can I travel to Dubai from the UK? UAE entry requirements and quarantine rules after amber list changes

The united arab emirates has been added to the amber list, making it more accessible to uk travellers.

Dubai is a popular holiday destination among Brits, and is now more accessible after the United Arab Emirates (UAE) was added to the amber list .

The UAE will officially join the amber list at 4am on Sunday 8 August.

From this date, fully vaccinated Brits will be able to visit Dubai without having to quarantine upon their return.

The UAE has been recording around 1,500 new Covid-19 infections per day since early July, and has a seven-day case rate of 109 per 100,000 people.

Its vaccination rates are very high – almost three-quarters of adults have received both jabs.

Amber list rules

Before  arriving in the UK from an amber list country , travellers must:

• Provide proof of a negative result from a Covid-19 test (PCR or antigen) taken within three days of departing for the UK
• Book and pay for a private Covid-19 test to be taken within two days of arriving
• Complete a passenger locator form on  the Government website here

If you have not received your second Covid-19 at least 14 days before arriving in the UK, you must quarantine for 10 days upon arrival.

You must also take a PCR test on day eight of your quarantine. You may take an additional test on day five, and can be released from isolation if it is negative. However, you must still take the day eight test.

Fully vaccinated people do not need to quarantine, and do not need to take a day eight test.

UAE entry requirements

You do not need to be fully vaccinated to visit the UAE.

People arriving in Dubai and Abu Dhabi from the UK present evidence of a negative Covid-19 PCR test taken no more than 72 hours before departure. This must be shown at check-in.

Travellers arriving in Abu Dhabi will also be required to undertake a PCR test upon arrival. Those arriving in Dubai may be required to do the same.

If you test positive for Covid-19 on arrival, depending on your symptoms and your accommodation plans, you may be required to self-isolate in a government facility, a hospital, your hotel or privately arranged accommodation for at least 10 days.

Before visitors fly to Dubai, they will also be required to complete a  health declaration form  and a  quarantine form . Both forms need to be printed, completed and handed over to Dubai Health Authority staff on arrival. Visitors to Dubai will also have to register their details on the Covid-19 DXB App, however, you do not have to quarantine.

Fully vaccinated arrivals into Abu Dhabi must quarantine for seven days, taking a PCR test on day six. If you are not double-jabbed you must quarantine for 12 days, with a PCR test on day 11.

Visitors must have international health insurance before travelling.

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office will not recommend against travelling to the UAE once it moves to the amber list, so you should be able to get travel insurance.

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Covid-19: UK-Dubai travel rules for Emirates passengers

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UAE announces 2-month grace period for residence visa violators

UAE announces fee refund for tax service charges from August 1

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Last updated: Fri 13 Aug 2021, 1:18 PM

Dubai-based carrier, Emirates, issued rules for travel from the United Kingdom in a fresh update on Friday.

UK moves UAE to amber list

All passengers travelling to Dubai from the UK must hold a negative Covid‑19 PCR test certificate for a test taken no more than 72 hours before departure - the certificate must be a Reverse Transcription‑Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT‑PCR) test.

Latest UAE travel rules you should know

Emirates to increase flights to 29 cities

Note that NHS Covid Test certificates are not accepted for travel from the UK, the statement specified.

Other test certificates including antibody tests and home testing kits are not accepted in Dubai.

Exemptions for UAE nationals

UAE nationals travelling to Dubai from UK are exempted from Covid‑19 test requirements prior to departure but will undergo a PCR test on arrival in Dubai.

Dubai eases Covid rules, increases capacity and timings

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Plan your trip, find advice on how to prepare, and get all the information you need before your Dubai holiday.

Quick tips Follow these essentials

Arriving in dubai, the weather, wi-fi in dubai, embassies & consulates, emergency numbers.

The currency in Dubai is the dirham, which is shortened to AED (United Arab Emirates Dirham). One dirham is divided into 100 fils. The dirham has been pegged to the US dollar since 1997, meaning the exchange rate never changes. One US dollar is worth AED3.67.

Small bottle of water: AED1.5 (50 cents) Big Mac: AED16.75 (USD4.5) Biryani: AED13 (USD3.5) Shawarma wrap: AED5 (USD1.4) Short taxi ride: AED12 (USD3.3) Dubai Metro (3 zones): AED5.8 (USD1.6) Cinema ticket (standard): AED35 (USD9.6) Abra ride across Dubai Creek: AED1 (USD27 cents)

With a coastal location on the Arabian Peninsula, Dubai enjoys a warm climate all year. The ‘winter’ months last from October to May with warm temperatures ranging from 20–35°C (68–95°F).

The summer season lasts from June to September with hotter temperatures reaching the mid-40s (~110° F) – and the city’s wide range of indoor and outdoor facilities and attractions ensure Dubai is a year-round destination.

In case of emergencies while on holiday in the UAE, call:

• 911 for Police
• 998 for Ambulance
• 997 for Fire Department
• 996 for Coastguard 

Visitors may also find these numbers helpful:

• +971 800 4438 for tourist security issues
• +971 800 342 for the Dubai Health Authority
• +971 600 545 555 for consumer-related concerns

Frequently asked questions

Where can I take the metro in Dubai?

When is it cold in Dubai?

What is the official language in Dubai?

Can I drink alcohol in Dubai?

Are public displays of affection allowed in Dubai?

Is there anything prohibited in Dubai?

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What you need to know your questions, answered, greetings & etiquette.

Dubai is a cosmopolitan city and a diverse melting pot where almost all attires and cultural expressions are accepted. Swimwear is permissible at beaches, waterparks, public pools and spa areas but is not considered appropriate in areas such as business districts and shopping malls.

Dressing conservatively is appreciated in Dubai's historic neighbourhoods and places of worship. There are specific requirements for entering a mosque, like wearing clothing that covers shoulders, arms and legs – and headscarves for women.

Marhaba! Dubai is a warm and friendly city and you will come across many people who will greet you with a smile and wish you well. A handshake is customary, but do note it is typically accepted that this should be initiated by women.

Public displays of affection are best kept to a minimum. Holding hands is acceptable, but kissing and hugging in public areas is not permitted.

Alcohol is served in licensed establishments such as hotels, bars and specialised shops to those over 21 years of age. However, drunk and disorderly conduct and drunk driving are not acceptable. Use or possession of illegal drugs is also strictly prohibited.

Dubai is home to hundreds of nationalities and both Arabic and English are spoken across the city. Learning a few Arabic words can certainly make the trip more memorable! As you explore the city you're very likely to hear Russian, Tagalog, Hindi, Urdu, Portuguese and many other languages. Follow our detailed guide for a list of handy phrases.

Many medicines used worldwide are readily available in pharmacies and hospitals across Dubai, but as in most countries, there are some medications which are restricted or prohibited for use in the UAE.

The UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) has full details of controlled or prohibited medications, plus information on what documents you need to carry with you if you need to bring a controlled medication into Dubai. MOHAP also issues a permit to import medicines into the UAE, which you can apply for on their website .

While the permit is optional, it is strongly recommended to obtain it prior to your trip as it will help ensure you have all the correct information and documents. You must also bring your official prescription from the issuing authority of where you are receiving treatment. Please note you can carry medicines for a maximum period of three months. If you have any questions, or want to check the status of a particular medication, contact your local UAE embassy, or get in touch with MOHAP .

To tip or not to tip? The short answer is, there are no rules when it comes to tipping in Dubai. How much you tip varies from profession to profession, and is also largely down to personal preference. It is customary to offer a little extra in most cases, but it certainly isn’t compulsory. Everyone arrives in Dubai with their own customs and expectations, but one thing that's always consistent is the high level of service.

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Latest December 9, 2021 at 8:19 pm

8 New Rules You Absolutely Must Know If You’re Travelling From The UAE To The UK

Ever since news about the Omicron variant broke out, there has been a lot of shuffling in travel rules. While a few countries have gone into another round of lockdown, a few others have put in stringent rules. And with Christmas around the corner, most of us are looking forward to meeting our family and celebrating the festive season.

So, in case you’re booked to travel to the UK from the UAE this Christmas, here’s what you need to know.

1. Fill out the passenger locator form

All passengers MUST fill out a passenger locator form prior to departure.

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2. You must submit a negative PCR test report even if you’re vaccinated

Passengers must submit a negative PCR test report prior to departure. The test must be taken 48 hours before your flight departure time.

3. You need test again on DAY 2 after landing in the UK

All passengers must take another PCR test on the second day, upon landing in the UK. Besides, you must ensure you havepre-booked the day 2 PCR test when you land in the UK and isolate.

4. Unvaccinated travelers must take a PCR test on day 8

Those who haven’t taken the covid vaccine must repeat the test on day 8 as well. So, that’s one test on day 2 and another one on day 8. All travellers must quarantine until they receive a negative result.

5. Those who test positive must quarantine for 10 days

In case you test positive, you must quarantine for 10 days. You can call NHS Helpline on 111 in case of an emergency.

6. A negative PCR test must be submitted

Irrespective of whether you are vaccinated or not, a PCR test must be taken no more than 48 hours before your flight departure time. The test must be done at a registered healthcare provider.

7. Test rules for kids

Children under age 4 need not take any test. Kids between 12 to 17 must take a PCR test 2 days before travelling to the UK. Children aged 5 to 17 must follow the testing and quarantine rules for people who qualify as fully vaccinated on arrival in the UK.

8. Know the red list rules

11 African countries are on the red list of most other countries. So, check updates for this, especially if you’re looking to travel elsewhere from the UK before returning to the UAE.

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FCDO updates travel advice for UAE including Dubai following UK and US air strike

T he Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has updated its travel advice for the United Arab Emirates (UAE) following UK and US air strikes.

The FCDO regularly updates the risk of travelling to different regions for British nationals which varies depending on a number of factors, including global events. It has warned travellers from the UK to the UAE, including Dubai, that current military activity in the Red Sea and Yemen could cause changes in surrounding regions.

Overnight, military air strikes targeted a number of Houthi rebel locations which Prime Minister Rishi Sunak was done as an act of "self-defence". It comes after the Houthi rebels attacked a number of ships in the Red Sea, which Mr Sunak warned threatened the economy.

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The FCDO's travel page reads: "Military activity is currently underway in response to attempts by Houthi militants to prevent movement of international shipping in the Red Sea. While the area of activity is limited to the Red Sea and Yemen, there is a possibility that Travel Advice for nearby countries could change at short notice.

"You should continue to monitor Travel Advice and follow any relevant instructions from local authorities."

On Tuesday, the Houthi rebel group fired their largest-ever barrage of drones and missiles at ships in the Red Sea. Despite this, the US said on Wednesday that the barrage didn't cause any damage.

he Houthis, a Shiite group that's held Yemen's capital since 2014, did not formally acknowledge launching the attacks. However, the pan-Arab satellite news network Al Jazeera quoted an anonymous Houthi military official saying their forces "targeted a ship linked to Israel in the Red Sea" without elaborating.

The Houthis say their attacks aim to end the Israeli air-and-ground offensive targeting the Gaza Strip amid that country's war on Hamas. However, the links to the ships targeted in the rebel assaults have grown more tenuous as the attacks continue. The attacks have targeted ships in the Red Sea, which links the Mideast and Asia to Europe via the Suez Canal, and its narrow Bab el-Mandeb Strait.

Meanwhile, a separate, tentative cease-fire between the Houthis and a Saudi-led coalition fighting on behalf of Yemen's exiled government has held for months despite that country's long war. Concerns are now being raised that any wider conflict in the sea - or a potential reprisal strike from Western forces - could reignite those tensions in the Arab world's poorest nation.

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Moving to Dubai From the UK

With a warmer climate, a high standard of living and a dynamic job market, we can see why our removals to Dubai service is popular. Dubai is also known as a safe city with low crime rates, making it an appealing destination for families or solo travellers. 

If you’re considering moving to Dubai from the UK, you’re not alone. Around 240,000 British expats live in the UAE city, making the British one of the largest expatriate communities there. 

In this blog, we’ve covered everything you need to know for your move to Dubai. From healthcare and government to salaries and taxes, find out more about moving to Dubai. 

Table of Contents

Types of dubai visas.

You will need a valid visa if you plan on visiting, living or working in Dubai from the UK. you can get a visa on arrival if you’re just visiting which is valid for 30 days . Student Visas are also available if you plan on studying in Dubai. 

Long-term Visit visas are for those who plan on living in Dubai for just 3 months . This can be extended after 90 days , but if you’re planning to move long-term, one of the following will be best suited: 

Employment visa

The most popular way to get a visa to live and work in Dubai is through the UAE Employment Visa . If you have secured a job in Dubai, your employer will act as your sponsor so you can gain a residence visa. Your employer will usually cover the application fees and visa costs.

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The duration of the visa varies between 2 and 3 years and will depend on whether you work for a mainland or free zone company. Your visa will last for 2 years if you’re an employee of a mainland company and 3 years for a free zone. 

Golden visa 

The UAE Golden Visa is available for investors, entrepreneurs and those with specialised talents. You can gain long-term residency for either 5 or 10 years . 

To be considered for this visa, you have to invest £438,500 (2 million AED) into a business or property. If you’re an entrepreneur, your business must bring in £220,000 (1 million AED) per year in revenue. 

The Green Visa is a fairly new option for skilled professionals and investors to gain permanent residency in Dubai. You do not need a sponsor for the Green visa and it grants you 5 years of residency in the city.

For skilled workers, you must have a minimum monthly salary of £3,200 (AED 15,000), educational qualifications and a valid contract in a skill. The UAE government website has a full list of UAE Green visa accepted occupations .

You can also sponsor your family which includes parents, spouses or children. The process to renew this visa is designed to be straightforward, so long as you continue to meet the criteria. 

UAE Citizenship

Getting UAE Citizenship is challenging, but in recent years the UAE has introduced different pathways to open up the process to investors, healthcare professionals and those with exceptional talent. You can gain UAE Citizenship by descent, marriage, naturalisation, and more recently through exceptional merit.

Applicants can apply for citizenship via exceptional merit and must be nominated by either UAE royals or officials and have approval from the Cabinet. The following categories can apply for UAE Citizenship:

• Doctors who are members of reputable organisations, made a recognised contribution to research and have over 10 years of experience
• Those who have a minimum of one UAE Ministry of Economy approved patent
• Individuals classed as innovators in their specific field with one approved patent, an international award and government agency recommendation
• Significant investors in UAE real estate that make notable contributions to the UAE economy.
• Emirates ID

If you are living in Dubai via a residency visa, you’ll need to apply for an Emirates ID. It’s a legal requirement for everyone living in Dubai and means you can set up essential services and utilities in Dubai. Your Emirates ID is essential in opening a bank account and setting up essential utilities like gas and electric.

You can apply for your Emirates ID through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security website.

Opening a Bank Account in Dubai

Opening a bank account in Dubai as a non UAE national is fairly straightforward. Non residents can do this too, but the process may be more difficult and you’ll be limited on account options. To open a bank account in Dubai as a British expat, you’ll need to meet the following criteria:

• Have a valid UAE residency visa
• Proof of having a minimum salary of typically AED 3,000 – 10,000 (Around £600-£2,000)
• Some banks may ask for a minimum opening balance.

You’ll need to provide the following required documents to open a Dubai bank account:

• Copy of your passport highlighting the visa page
• The original and a copy of your Emirates ID
• Proof of your address via a bill, employer letter or rental contract
• Proof of salary from your employer to show monthly salary
• 3-6 months of recent bank statements, typically if you’re opening a savings or investment account.

To learn more, read our blog on opening a bank account in Dubai .

Work and Salaries in Dubai

Dubai offers a dynamic job market with opportunities across various sectors. While many salaries can vary significantly based on experience, qualifications, and industry, the average monthly salary in Dubai is AED 13,530.90 (approximately £2,783.92). According to the latest ONS data, the average UK salary is £2,297 after taxes per month. This puts Dubai salaries around 20% higher than the UK average , making it an attractive destination for many professionals. One of the significant advantages of working in Dubai is the tax-free income . This can substantially increase your take-home pay.

Jobs in demand in Dubai include roles in technology and IT, healthcare, finance, banking and construction. It’s recommended to find work in Dubai before moving there as this will help you gain a Visa. You can look at current job listings on websites like Reed, Indeed or on the Dubai Government’s careers page .

Here’s a comparison of average salaries for some popular jobs in Dubai and the UK

While the salary comparison between the UK and Dubai provides a general overview, it’s essential to note that individual circumstances can vary. Factors such as experience, qualifications, industry, and specific job roles can significantly impact salary levels. It’s recommended to conduct thorough research and consider your personal goals and preferences when making a decision about relocating to Dubai for work.

Taxes in Dubai

One of the main draws of moving to Dubai from the UK is that they don’t impose personal income tax, even on British or other foreign expats. Another tax benefit of living in Dubai is no Capital Gains Tax is charged on the sale of investments or property within Dubai, unlike in the UK. This tax may still be charged if you sold property in the UK while living in Dubai.

The Double Taxation Agreement between the UK and UAE means you won’t be taxed twice on the same income. If you are being taxed in both countries, the agreement works by offsetting taxes in one country against those owed in the other. You will have to pay Value Added Tax (VAT) on most goods and services, which is 5% . This is much lower than the UK’s 20% VAT charge. If your business has profits of AED 375,000 (£80,000) or more, you’ll be charged a federal corporate tax of 9% .

Cost of Living in Dubai

For comparison, the cost of living in Dubai is 42% cheaper than in London, UK.

Looking at the UK on average, rent in Dubai is notably higher than in the UK, but you’ll be able to buy property much cheaper. Although daily expenses like groceries are similar, Dubai offers cheaper utilities and significantly lower private preschool fees. A higher monthly average salary and no income tax help balance these costs.

Below we’ve compared the cost of a variety of everyday services and items in Dubai with UK prices. 

Property Prices in Dubai

Rent prices are 57% higher in Dubai than in the United Kingdom, averaging AED 7,944.80 (£1,684.32) for a city centre apartment. It’ll cost you AED 10,440.95 (£2,211.68) per square metre to buy property outside the city centre in Dubai, which is 71% cheaper than the UK’s average. 

Buying property in the UAE is similar to the UK. You’ll need to make an formal offer on the home, typically through a real estate agent. As there are always properties being built in Dubai, it’s common to buy an ‘off plan’ property. This simply means buying a property when it’s still being constructed. This way of buying property usually comes with incentives and payment plans from the developers to make the buying process more financially manageable.

To view current listings to help create a budget, look at websites like Property Finder , Emirates.Estates , Rightmove and Zoopla . Below we’ve listed the average rental and buying costs in Dubai and compared with UK prices to help with your research.

Where to Live in Dubai

Where you choose to live in Dubai will depend on your budget and circumstances.

Renting is more popular in Dubai, especially among expats. Due to many people working in Dubai not knowing the full length of their stay, renting offers flexibility and less financial risk than buying.

If you’re moving to Dubai long-term or permanently, then buying property might be more beneficial due to the long-term investment and financial stability.

Below we share some areas of Dubai that’ll suit a variety of requirements, including some average rental and buying prices. 

• Dubai Silicon Oasis – Located in southeast Dubai, Dubai Silicon Oasis offers affordable housing with a community feel. It’s a Free Zone that hosts multiple tech companies and start-ups, so it’s an ideal place to live for professionals. Public transport to central Dubai is limited, but the affordable property prices make up for this. The average property price in Dubai Silicon Oasis for a 2-bedroom apartment is AED 1,481,824 (£304,865.09).
• Al Barsha – Al Barsha is an ideal location for families and those looking for affordable housing options in Dubai. Home to the Mall of Emirates, Al Barsha offers excellent amenities and a range of housing options. Located centrally, this residential area is close to shops, schools and healthcare facilities. Annual rent in Al Barsha for a 2-bedroom apartment will cost on average AED 65,000 (£13,374.10).
• Downtown Dubai – For those after the luxury Dubai lifestyle, Downtown is the place for you. Boasting the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Fountain and Dubai Mall, you’ll be surrounded by luxury apartments and high-end shopping. The average 2-bedroom apartment sale price in Downtown Dubai is AED 3,912,195 (£804,779.60), making it an expensive place to buy. You can expect to pay AED 24,474 (£5,034.34) in rent monthly for a 2-bed apartment.
• Dubai Marina – Dubai Marina is best suited for those seeking a lively lifestyle, with plenty of restaurants, cafes and other amenities. A popular place for British expats, Dubai Marina offers British schools, social clubs and stunning waterfront views. The average property price in Dubai Marina for a 2-bedroom apartment is AED 3,277,465 (£674,258.05)

Education in Dubai

The UAE ranks 28th in the best countries for education annual report . The UK is ranked 2nd . 

Dubai offers a variety of international curricula, including British, American, International Baccalaureate and local UAE national curriculum. The English language is commonly used in international schools, but in UAE schools Arabic is the first language.

There are no state international schools in Dubai, only private, which means this comes at a cost. Fees can range from AED 12,723 (£2,617.75) to AED 64,093 (£13,187.11), dependent on the school and grade. Check out Edarabia’s list of British schools in Dubai to help with your research.

The compulsory school age in Dubai is 6 years old for Primary school and around 18 for Secondary school, being mandatory until Grade 12 is complete. 

Dubai is home to many reputable universities including the University of Dubai, the American University in Dubai and the University of Sharjah.

Healthcare in Dubai

The UAE ranks 17th for the best healthcare in the world, whilst the UK ranks 27th , according to a recent Health Care Index . 

Healthcare in Dubai is free for UAE nationals, but expats have to pay to access even basic services. All expats in Dubai must have health insurance in place. While employers will typically cover the costs of their workers’ health insurance, it’s mandatory to ensure you have cover. Private healthcare facilities are also available in Dubai, which will come at a higher insurance cost. They are known for having high-quality facilities and lower waiting times.

You’ll need to apply for a Health Card to receive treatment and services at public hospitals. The cards cost AED 320 (£70) a year for adults and must be renewed annually. For children under 10, the fee is AED 120 (£26). You can apply for a Health Card online or visit your local medical centre or hospital. You must have a valid residency visa and provide the following documents, or copies of:

• Passport showing your residency visa
• A recent photo of you
• Proof of address or lease
• Marriage or birth certificate if you are adding family members

A GP appointment can cost on average between AED 250-350 (£51.44-£72.01) Fees for a specialist doctor will be higher and can range between AED 500-600 (£102.86-£123.44).

Lifestyle and Culture in Dubai

Dubai and the UK have very different cultures, so it’s important to understand the differences before moving.

Arabic is the primary language spoken in Dubai, but English is very commonly spoken too. It’s recommended for British expats to have a basic understanding of everyday phrases to show respect in the community. There are many British pubs , restaurants and community events for British expats in Dubai, but it’s recommended to get involved in the local events with UAE nationals as well.

Dubai, as part of the UAE, is deeply influenced by its Islamic cultural heritage, which is reflected in its legal system and social norms. Islamic principles shape various aspects of life, including family law and public behaviour, which are guided by a combination of local customs and formal regulations.

Public conduct in Dubai is subject to careful consideration, with an emphasis on respect for the cultural values of the region. This means that certain actions, such as public displays of affection, may be considered inappropriate.

Also note that you’ll need to obtain an alcohol licence to purchase and drink alcohol in Dubai such as in hotels and restaurants. It’s illegal to drink alcohol and be intoxicated in public places.

Muslims in Dubai celebrate the holy month of Ramadan, with non-Muslims and expats expected to show respect during this time. There’s no requirement for non-Muslims to fast, but it’s prohibited to eat, drink or smoke in public during the daytime.

To learn more, read our guide on the differences between UK and Dubai culture .

Government in Dubai

Dubai operates under the UAE government, which elects a president every 5 years through its Supreme Council. The president will then appoint a prime minister to tackle federal policies. 

The current Ruler of Dubai and prime minister is Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. He’s also the Vice President of the UAE. As an Emirate, Dubai has a good amount of control over its local government, especially in economic and development matters.

Voting in the UAE is only open to UAE citizens, meaning British expats non citizens cannot vote in Dubai.

Driving in Dubai

British expats with a valid UK driving license can exchange their license for a UAE one, without having to take a Dubai driving test. Unlike in the UK, people drive on the right side of the road in Dubai, with the seat on the left-hand side.

Dubai has a modern infrastructure with often wide roads and multi-lane motorways. Speed limits are generally higher in Dubai, but enforce strict monitoring of speed limits via speed cameras. 

Retiring in Dubai

Many people chose to move to Dubai to retire. A warmer climate, world-class healthcare and a high standard of living attract thousands of British expats each year.

Those wanting to retire in Dubai from the UK and are over 55 can apply for a Retirement Visa. You must meet one of the following requirements to be eligible for this visa;

• Have a minimum monthly income of £4,200
• Have savings of £210,000 in a UAE bank 
• Or own a property in Dubai worth £420,000 . 

Can I Ship My Car to Dubai?

Yes, our sister company Autoshippers offer weekly car shipping services to Dubai from the UK. Autoshippers have over 25 years of experience in safely shipping cars and other vehicles to Dubai. 

Autoshippers will handle the customs protocols to ship your car to Dubai. They use both container shipping and Roll on Roll off services at competitive rates. Let them arrange collection from your door or you can drop your car off at the closest port. 

It should be noted that Dubai typically doesn’t allow importation of cars older than 10 years. Classic and vintage cars may not be subject to this rule, so it’s important to do your research. 

How Much Are Shipping Costs to Dubai?

The average cost of international removals to Dubai from the UK starts from £1,058 for a small move and  £2,857 for a large move . Your moving costs will depend on the size of move and other extra services. These are just guideline costs and to get an accurate quote for your move to Dubai, fill out our quick and easy form .

Pros and Cons of Moving to Dubai From the UK

Below we have summarised the pros and cons of moving to Dubai to help you with your research.

• Tax-free income  – Those working in Dubai don’t have to pay income tax on their earnings, making it an attractive place for professionals.
• Warmer climate  – Dubai has a tropical desert micro climate, which means it experiences extremely hot Summers and warm Winters.
• Safe city  – Dubai has a low crime rate and is known to be a safe city, especially for women.
• Excellent healthcare  – Its healthcare system is ranked highly worldwide, ranking 17th compared to the UK at 27th.
• Lower cost of living than London – Whilst Dubai’s rental market can be expensive, the overall cost of living is lower than London.
• Strict social norms  – Dubai follows Sharia Law so public behaviour is closely monitored. Anything deemed disrespectful or inappropriate could see you face a fine or imprisonment.
• Strict alcohol rules – You have to obtain an alcohol license to drink and buy alcohol, with strict rules on public drinking.
• Local laws on same-sex relationships – Although Dubai is a welcoming city, it’s advised to research the UAE’s laws on public displays of affection in same-sex relationships.
• Lower education rank than the UK – Dubai’s education system ranks much lower than the UKs.
• Higher rental prices than the UK – Rent is much higher than in the UK, but buying property is more affordable.

Removals to Dubai

If you’re ready to book your removals to Dubai , get in touch with 1st Move International for a tailored free quote. We offer safer, faster and smarter international shipping services from the UK to Dubai.

Our unique shrink-Fast palletising technique means we use commercial consolidators with guaranteed weekly shipping dates. This sees your belongings securely shipped door-to-door, reducing damage and delays throughout the move.

Request  a free quote  and get an accurate estimate for your move without having a home survey. You can also give us a call on  0800 389 0784  /  +44 117 982 8123 if that’s easier.

Is it worth moving to Dubai from the UK?

It can be worthwhile moving to Dubai from the UK for many reasons. Whether it’s for better job opportunities or career advancements, a different lifestyle or a better climate, Dubai offers something for everyone.

Can a British citizen move to Dubai?

Yes, many British citizens move to Dubai and gain permanent residence through the many visa options. You’ll have to meet the criteria and get accepted for a visa to live and work in Dubai.

Do I still pay UK tax if I move to Dubai?

You have to be considered a non-resident for UK tax purposes to not pay UK tax on your Dubai income. You may have to pay UK tax if you still receive some income from the UK.

About 1st Move International

1st Move International are a specialist international moving and shipping company offering packing, shipping and insurance for shipping household goods and personal effects overseas. We have a global reach covering over 80 countries and 6500 worldwide destinations. You can get an international removals quote here or find more information on our international removals UK to Dubai service here .

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Airport security liquids rule – what is changing?

Advanced ct scanners at some uk and european airports mean liquids and laptops can stay in the traveller’s bag – but the 100ml size limit has returned, article bookmarked.

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Many airline passengers say the worst part of any journey is the airport security check. Worldwide, an average of half a million people pass through airport security every hour . Travellers resent the limit on LAGs (liquids, aerosols and gels) in cabin baggage, as well as the obligation to extract electronics such as laptops and tablets from hand luggage.

The liquids rules were introduced hastily worldwide in 2006 as “a temporary measure” to protect against explosives. Despite repeated promises they remain in place.

In 2019 Boris Johnson vowed the rules would be eased at major UK airports by 2022, allowing larger quantities and eliminating the need to have liquids separately scanned. Rishi Sunak’s government then extended that deadline to 1 June 2024.

While new scanners are being installed at checkpoints at all the UK’s main airports – the work was not fast enough to meet the June deadline.

The big four UK hubs – Heathrow , Gatwick , Manchester and Stansted – said several months ahead they would not be ready in time. The then-transport secretary, Mark Harper, granted airports an extension , but warned that they could be fined if they further delay the roll-out of smoother security.

A week afterthe deadline, progress in aviation security actually went into reverse, with the Department for Transport (DfT) ordering airports with the new equipment to restore the old 100ml limit on LAGs .

Simon Calder, former security officer at Gatwick airport and current Independent travel correspondent, explains more.

Cabin baggage: what are the rules?

The list of items that cannot be taken through an airport security checkpoints in carry-on bags has increased over the decades. Prohibitions have evolved in reaction to terrorist attacks – successful and otherwise.

All weapons, whether firearms, knives or explosives, are banned from hand luggage. But there are also strict rules about larger quantities of liquids, aerosols, gels, pastes, lotions and cosmetics, extending even to yoghurt, soft cheese and Creme Eggs.

For passengers, the best plan is to assume that no container for any liquid, aerosol or gel can be above 100ml.

At most airports LAGS must be carried within a resealable clear plastic bag with a maximum volume of one litre, and removed for the security check. But at seven UK airports with advanced equipment already installed, the liquids can be left in the passenger’s luggage.

How did the liquids rule come about?

In August 2006 the aviation industry – and baffled passengers – awoke to find security rules for passengers had tightened overnight. The government announced that it had uncovered a terror plot to blow up transatlantic jets from Heathrow to North America.

The perpetrators aimed to take the ingredients for improvised explosive devices on board a number of aircraft. The ingredients, derived from hydrogen peroxide, were intended to be smuggled aboard in soft drink containers. The plotters aimed to assemble the bombs on board before detonating them and destroying the plane. They were later convicted of offences including conspiracy to murder and conspiracy to cause explosions.

The bosses of Britain’s airlines were called in the early hours of 10 August 2006 to be told their passengers would be banned from carrying anything more than a purse or wallet into an aircraft cabin. Even pens were banned from transatlantic flights, on the grounds that the ink they contained was a liquid.

One concession was made, for nursing mothers: they could take milk for their baby through the checkpoint, but only if they tasted it first in front of security staff to demonstrate it was the real thing.

Baggage systems could not cope with two or three times the normal number of items, and Heathrow airport ground almost to a standstill. Flight networks elsewhere in the UK and Europe were also affected.

Three months later, the rules were eased – but with strict limits that prevail today at almost all UK and overseas airports.

Were they always intended to be permanent?

No. The limits were introduced as a “temporary measure” while airport security technology caught up. But progress has been painfully slow.

Even a very modest relaxation of the rules – to allow airport purchases of drinks to be taken through checkpoints in a sealed “security tamper-evident bag” (Steb) – took years to be implemented. Many passengers are still being caught out, losing their expensive airport purchases, because duty-free drinks are not allowed through the airport where they change planes.

Is there a technological solution?

Yes. Modern scanners use computed tomography (CT) – the same technology as medical scanners – to analyse the molecular structure of the contents of a passenger’s bag. The machines can detect potential threats and present security officers with a three-dimensional image of the contents.

They can also analyse whether laptops and other electronic equipment present a danger.

At airports where the technology is installed, liquids and laptops no longer have to be removed.

The aim is that security should be enhanced, with more sophisticated assessment of potential threats. The amount of staff time consumed in “secondary searches” should be reduced, allowing officers to spend more time assessing passenger behaviour.

Travellers have a much easier experience: they no longer need deconstruct their cabin bags, and the whole airport process feels much smoother and less stressful.

That sounds great – so what are we waiting for?

The new kit was first used in Europe at Shannon in the west of Ireland , where “liquids, gels, pastes, lotions and cosmetics in containers of any size” have been allowed through security since March 2022.

To reduce stress for passengers and increase security, in 2019 the government told all major UK airports to have advanced CT scanners at security checkpoints by 1 December 2022 . But the deadline was missed.

During the Covid pandemic, airports faced catastrophic losses as passenger numbers collapsed. The obligation to make the multi-million pound investment required was lifted.

In 2022, the then-transport secretary Mark Harper promised the airport experience would become easier from 1 June 2024: “The tiny toiletry has become a staple of airport security checkpoints, but that’s all set to change. I’m streamlining cabin bag rules at airports while enhancing security.

“By 2024, major airports across the UK will have the latest security tech installed, reducing queuing times, improving the passenger experience, and most importantly detecting potential threats.”

How did that turn out?

Badly, with the vast majority of airports failing to meet the deadline. They include the UK’s four biggest airports, which handle most of the nation’s passengers: Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester and Stansted.

• A spokesperson for Heathrow airport told The Independent : “Heathrow has to replace 146 lanes, while some of the smaller airports have less than 10 to replace, this shows the magnitude of the work ongoing at Heathrow while we continue to ensure smooth security experiences for passengers.”
• Gatwick expects to be fully ready in the first three months of 2025. A spokesperson for the Sussex airport said: “We currently plan to have completed the major logistical operation required to install the remaining scanners in Q1 2025, after the busy summer peak period has concluded.”
• Manchester Airports Group, which owns Stansted and East Midlands as well as Manchester, has the new scanners “in place on a large number of our security lanes” – but the programme will not be completed until 2025.

A senior aviation figure, Jonathan Hinkles, told Airliner World : “For airports – many still battling to repair their financial balance sheets after the pandemic – the huge cost of this new equipment is an unwelcome burden.

“The government-imposed deadline date deprived them of any real ability to negotiate prices with suppliers of the new equipment, and much of the new kit is turning up late too.”

In April 2024, the government said: “We recognise that installing the new security equipment at busy airports has been a logistical challenge, with some airports having to undertake significant construction work to allow the new, extremely heavy equipment to be fitted. In some cases, airports have been required to construct entirely new screening halls.”

Mr Harper said: “It’s important we give those airports yet to meet the deadline a second chance to get the job done.”

The then-transport secretary said aviation security law would be changed so non-compliant airports could be fined – though that legislation was scuppered by the election being called.

Some complied, though?

Yes. Seven airports met the 1 June 2024 deadline: Aberdeen, Newcastle, Teesside, Leeds Bradford, Birmingham, Southend and London City. In addition, Bristol airport says it will have the new equipment fully in place by 14 June 2024.

They saw having the kit in place as a competitive advantage, with the promise of an almost complete relaxation of the liquids rule – with up to 2 litres being allowed through.

But in a shock move, from 9 June 2024 they were ordered to restore the 100ml limit. It was not a complete reversal; passengers will still be able to leave liquids, aerosols, gels, etc, in their cabin baggage. They must, though, be in containers of 100ml or less.

Why did that happen?

It was not the airports’ choice. At London City and Teesside, for example, the new scanners have been working well for over a year.

A Department for Transport spokesperson said: “This temporary move is to enable further improvements to be made to the new checkpoint systems.”

Mr Harper later said: “We’ve reintroduced that rule while updates, changes are made to the scanning equipment at the airport to make sure we can continue delivering our world-leading levels of aviation security.”

The Independent understands the move has nothing to do with fears of weaker aviation security. Instead, it resulted from concerns about long queues at UK airports as the summer rush – amplified by football fans departing for Euro 2024 in Germany.

Ministers fear that delays at security checkpoints could build up because the new equipment is mis-identifying many innocuous items in passengers’ baggage as posing a threat.

Sources have told The Independent that harmless liquids such as sunscreen have been misidentified as high-threat substances.

While security has never been compromised, a number of airports using the new scanners have experienced long queues due to a higher-than-expected rejection rate, with security officers obliged to carry out hand searches of cabin baggage.

On several occasions while passing through checkpoints at non-fully compliant airports with the new kit, I have witnessed the system snarling up due to the large number of bags required to undergo a hand search – and gone from imagining I had plenty of time for a coffee before the flight to sprinting to the gate.

If sunscreen shows up as a possible threat, why does the quantity matter?

Because the 100ml limit was selected as a sufficiently low volume to avoid an on-board threat. Effectively, the airports with new scanners can pass bags that would otherwise be rejected. The aim is to speed up the process and reduce queues.

When everyone is ready, will that be the end of problems?

Not necessarily: passenger confusion is a constant problem for aviation security. It was difficult enough conveying the two sets of rules, “old” and “new”, for items carried in cabin baggage. Because of the publicity surrounding light-touch security at a handful of airports, there are fears that travellers may infer rules have changed everywhere.

Worldwide, lack of conformity is a key issue for aviation security professionals – and passengers.

At many airports liquids are limited but can stay in the traveller’s bag. Laptops and tablets such as iPads must be removed in the UK and many other countries, but in some nations they need not be.

The European Union (and wider Schengen Area) has also reverted to the “old” rules at all airports from 1 September 2024, following concerns about the new equipment installed at some airports. Olivier Jankovec, director general of the airports’ body ACI Europe, said: “Those airports which have been early adopters of this new technology are being heavily penalised both operationally and financially.”

In Israel, procedures are entirely different. The authorities say: “Passengers should arrive three hours prior to departure for the security check procedure.” There is sometimes intense questioning by officials, and laptops must be removed. But liquids are permitted without restriction.

The main issue: passengers should not expect aviation security to be the same worldwide – or even UK-wide. At some small Scottish airports including Barra, Campbeltown and Tiree there have been no security checks since 2017 .

Is this going to cost me more?

The airports that are collectively investing hundreds of millions of pounds will be seeking a return – and that could include raising fees. But the long-term aim is that new tech should cut staff costs, representing savings for airports.

Willie Walsh, director-general of the International Air Transport Association ( Iata ) – representing airlines worldwide – said: “Implementing this technology should not come with a big bill. In fact, simplified processes should deliver significant efficiencies.”

“Speedy deployment should be possible. The technology has already been used successfully and for a long time at various airports across the world with measurable improvements to the passenger experience.”

Will aviation security remain a permanent pain?

No. In 2019 Iata described the prevailing security situation as “no longer sustainable”. It has been working with airports for over a decade on a project called “Smart Security”.

Ultimately walk-through metal detectors and security pat-down of many passengers should be eliminated, with technology assessing possible threats more effectively than humans watching screens.

The passenger should be able to walk unchallenged along a corridor flanked by detectors, barely aware that they are being checked.

Checkpoints will still be staffed, but security personnel will be freed up to do what people do best, which is to study the behaviour of passengers and identify “persons of interest” for further investigation.

However, as the reversals at UK and EU airports show, there is a long way to go.

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Travel ban on two individuals under counter-terrorism sanctions

The travel bans are in addition to the financial prohibitions to which they are already subject.

• Nazem Ahmad and Mustafa Ayash, who were designated by HM Treasury on 18 April 2023 and 27 March 2024 respectively, are now subject to a travel ban and so cannot enter the UK.
• This is HM Treasury’s first use of the power to impose a travel ban on an individual under its Domestic Counter Terrorism Regime.

The UK Government has announced a travel ban on two individuals under the Domestic Counter Terrorism Sanctions Regime. A travel ban means persons are excluded for the purposes of section 8B of the Immigration Act 1971 – it means that they cannot enter the UK.

This action is the first use of new travel ban powers under the Domestic Counter Terrorism Sanctions Regime. The travel bans are a part of continued efforts to protect the integrity of the UK economy from terrorist financing threats. They are used to target those who are suspected of being, or to have been, involved in terrorist activity in the UK but are not UK nationals.

Further information on how the travel ban is implemented can be found on the Home Office pages of GOV.UK.

Sanctioned individuals now subject to a travel ban:

• Nazem Ahmad, suspected Hizballah financier.
• Mustafa Ayash, promoting terrorism through his involvement with Gaza Now, a terrorism-promoting media network.

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