Returning UAE residents no longer need entry permit: NCEMA

Starting today, residents returning to the UAE will not need entry permits issued by the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) to fly home.

In a series of tweets, the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) said it is under the second phase of the 'Residents Return Programme'.

It also coincides with the end of the summer holidays for educational institutions and the return of commercial activities as well as social and service facilities.

The ICA will now automatically grant pre-approval without the need to submit an application.

#NCEMA and the @ICAUAE approved the second phase for the return of residents, starting from 12/08/2020, aligned with end of the summer vacation for educational establishments and the continued return of shopping centers and services.

— NCEMA UAE (@NCEMAUAE) August 12, 2020

Residents have been advised to update their data, including a valid Emirates ID, passport number and citizenship, on the ICA website before flying back.

All precautionary and preventive measures will be applied to people upon their arrival in the UAE.

These include being tested for COVID-19 and adhering to the quarantine procedures. 

Returning residents are reminded to take the test no more than 96 hours before their journey and present their negative result certificates on arrival.