By Mohamed Lamin Massaquoi

Authorities in the United Arab Emirates, UAE, have announced the resumption of entry to travelers with tourist visas from all countries, including Sierra Leone and many others, who were suspended as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

A joint statement issued by The Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) and the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority, confirmed that applications for tourist visas would be opened to travelers from all countries, starting today, Monday 30th August 2021.

As part of its new rules, the UAE will receive tourists “from all countries” who have received both doses of a Covid-19 vaccine approved by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and passengers with tourist visas must take a mandatory rapid PCR test at the airport of departure and on arrival. The previous rules for unvaccinated (from restricted countries), including exempted categories, remain in place;those with tourist visas must register their vaccination certificates on the ICA website (www.ica.gov.ae) or AlHosn app for approval to “enjoy the same benefits” as vaccinated residents in the UAE before embarking on their travel to the UAE.

This release furthered that the move was part of the country’s strategy to create a balance between public health and the activities of vital sectors, and in support of the national efforts to achieve sustainable recovery and economic growth.