Dubai - Countries have tightened safety measures over new, more infectious Covid-19 strains.
Passengers wearing hazmat suits inside the Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Paranaque, Metro Manila, Philippines. — Reuters file photo
With new, more infectious strains of Covid-19 being detected around the world, countries have tightened measures to curb its spread.
Several announcements have been made for travellers from around the world, including the UAE, as countries scramble to introduce new safety measures.
Below is a list of announcements that are applicable to travellers from the UAE.
>> Philippines
Filipino residents in the UAE returning home need to undergo a facility-based 14-day quarantine period, even if they have a negative Covid-19 PCR test result.
Additionally, foreign travellers (non-Filipinos) from the UAE and all the other countries covered shall not be allowed entry. The directive is applicable till January 31.
>> Denmark
Denmark has announced a temporary suspension on all flights from the UAE.
Faisal Lutfi, Assistant Undersecretary for Consular Affairs at the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, has said that communication is currently underway with the Danish authorities to clarify the details and cases behind the decision.
>> US
All travellers to the US — aged two years or more — will have to carry a Covid-19 negative test result before boarding the flight from January 26. They also need to quarantine on arrival. The test needs to be taken no more than three days before travel.
>> UK
The UK issued an advisory earlier this month, making it mandatory for travellers going to Scotland and England to furnish a negative Covid-19 test result taken up to 72 hours before departure. This rule came into effect on January 18.
>> Canada
Canada requires all travelers to have a negative Covid-19 test result before arrival. The test must have been taken within 72 hours of travel.
>> Belgium
Belgium will start banning non-essential travel to and from the country starting January 27. Foreign nationals entering the country for “professional reasons” will have to show a double test: A negative PCR test on departure and a negative PCR test on arrival.