Dubai/Abu Dhabi and current covid test requirements

[MamaDuckling]

Hello,

We are heading to UAE next week, flying into Dubai then driving to Abu Dhabi for a few days. We understand we need proof of covid negative status to access water parks/attractions in Abu Dhabi still.

Can anyone local please confirm this is the case, and if so, do you know whether we can get that test done at either airport?

mamy thanks!

I went recently and yes needed, although I got my test there the hotel sent someone from the hospital over to do it or you can walk into the hospital to get a test took, 12 hours to get results.

Thanks @Dazedandconfused10 - do you know if there is anywhere that would turn it around faster, or option to pay more in hotel for faster results?

Oh yeah, sorry, totally forgot they could offer faster results - ours were done at about 10pm and we were going to bed so no need to pay for a quicker result. Much cheaper than the cost of a test here too.

That’s fab thank you!

Hi @Dazedandconfused10 - do you know if a UK test would have been valid? Online info is a bit confusing. Seems that as long as it’s within 30 days it’s valid, but unclear if it has to be a UAE test? Any idea?

I think they might! I managed to misread the guidance completely and got from the uk to the hotel without even showing any proof at all to anyone. If they don't they'll help you arrange another test, but it felt very much like a tick box exercise.

You can get a test in AD for only 40AED as the price is fixed. Dubai is more expensive and in my experience, so is the UK. You need to have the test within the last 30 days if you are vaccinated. You can use the Al Hosn app as a visitor as well as a resident.

Mostly pcr results come back in about 12 hours.

Thanks both.

@losingit31 im not too fussed about the cost, just don’t really want to faff about at another airport (we fly into Dubai but driving straight over to Abu Dhabi). Not even sure if the test centre at Abu Dhabi airport is airside or not either?

so if a UK test two days before we fly will be valid, that would be preferable?

You can get a test at DXB with almost instant results, I believe.

All the AD info is here: visitabudhabi.ae/en/plan-your-trip/covid-safe-travel