Airlines open bookings as stranded residents rush to buy slightly expensive tickets to UAE

Gulf Today, Staff Reporter

International airlines have started accepting flight bookings to Dubai from India, Nepal, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Uganda after UAE authorities eased travel restrictions.

The authorities said the decision is effective from Aug.5.

As soon as the restrictions were eased, travel agents and airlines offices have been receiving barrage of phone calls for the latest travel procedures and ticket prices.

Gulf Today gathered information from the two big UAE airlines, Emirates and Etihad on flight resumption.

Emirates website shows bookings are open from Aug.6

But the prices remain slight high.

A one-way trip from Karachi to Dubai would cost around Dhs1,100.

While a one-way trip from Delhi to Dubai showed over Dhs2,100.

Some Indian airlines are also opened their booking services.

Pakistan’s PIA website showed flights availability from Aug.5.

However, a one-way trip from Karachi to Dubai with would cost around Dhs1,300.

Emirates also responded to a traveller from Bangladesh.

The Airline said, “Hi Ahmed. As per the latest updates, effective 5th of August, eligible travellers from Bangladesh will be allowed to travel to/through the UAE. We'll announce details of the latest protocols and requirements as soon as they're available.”

The UAE authorities have issued a list of requirements for passengers.

The authorities said holders of valid residency who received full vaccination in the UAE and 14 days have passed since receiving the second dose and carrying vaccination certificates approved by the official authorities in the country will be allowed to enter from those countries.

All of these categories are required to submit a request on the website of the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship to obtain the necessary approval. Vaccination certificates approved by authorities in the country should be attached.

A quick PCR test before boarding the plane will apply, in addition to applying the precautionary and preventive measures upon arrival, including quarantine and a PCR test.

Transit passengers from all countries from which transit passengers were previously suspended will be allowed to resume their travel, provided the traveller’s last destination accepts entry with a negative PCR test within 72 hours of the time of departure.

The country’s airports have allocated special lounges for transit passengers while taking all precautionary and preventive measures.