Coronavirus Dubai: FCO issues urgent new travel warning for UAE – latest update

Dubai and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are normally very popular with British holidaymakers. The destination is ideal for winter sun and those looking for a relaxing and luxurious break. However, the UAE today issued an urgent warning concerning travel in the light of the spread of coronavirus.

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Subsequently, the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) has now updated its travel advice.

Entry rules to Dubai and the UAE have been changing almost daily in the past week due to coronavirus.

Previously, the country revealed that the majority of visitors won’t be able to obtain a visa and so won’t be able to enter.

“From 19 March, the UAE will temporarily suspend all visas on arrival with the exception of Diplomatic passport holders,” stated the FCO in its travel advice yesterday.

However, the UAE has now gone one step further with its entry restrictions.

Visitors are now not allowed to enter the country at all.

The FCO explained the details in its latest travel advice to Britons, updated today.

“With effect from 19 March only UAE Citizens will be allowed to enter the UAE,” said the Foreign Office.

“All UAE Residents who are abroad will not be allowed to re-enter the UAE for a period of at least two weeks.

“This period could be extended. Please contact your nearest UAE Embassy for further advice.

“Visitors are not allowed to enter the UAE until further notice.

“If you are transiting through a UAE airport to another destination please check with your carrier before travelling.”

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The FCO added: “The UAE authorities have stated that any violation of instructions and procedures put in place to limit the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) will be treated as a crime punishable by law.”

There are current 113 confirmed cases of coronavirus in the UAE.

Globally there are 227,310 confirmed cases and there have sadly been 9,311 deaths.

This week the FCO advised against all but essential travel outside the UK for 30 days.

“If you now need to change or cancel your travel plans, follow these steps,” said the FCO.

These are:

– Contact your airline, travel company, cruise line or other transport and accommodation providers

– Get in touch with your insurance provider

– Continue to follow the NHS coronavirus guidance. 

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