ABU DHABI: The UAE has scrapped PCR test rules for fully vaccinated people arriving in the UAE from February 26.
The National Emergency, Crisis and Disasters Management Authority (NCEMA) on Friday said fully vaccinated passengers only need to show a vaccine certificate with a readable QR code.
Those who are not vaccinated must show a negative PCR test conducted within 48 hours of departure or a recovery certificate with a QR code proving they have recovered from coronavirus within a month of the date of travel.
It also came as Abu Dhabi scrapped its green list system and removed quarantine for all international travelers.
Ncema also announced that all sports activities could resume, while ending physical distancing requirements in the tourism and economic sectors from the same date.
However, authorities stressed people must follow the Al Hosn green pass requirement, or present a negative PCR test result of no more than 96 hours to attend all local events, exhibitions, and cultural and social activities.
Changes were also introduced at the country’s mosques. NCEMA approved the return of the pre-pandemic time intervals between prayer calls and the iqaamah. The iqaamah calls worshippers to pray.. A limited number of sanitized copies of the Quran will be available, but worshippers must keep a physical distance of one metre.
The pronouncement comes amid a sweeping relaxation of rules announced on Friday which included the elimination of the mandatory use of masks outdoors.
Abu Dhabi also ended border rules requiring travelers entering from other emirates to show Al Hosn green pass or move through an EDE scanner. This is effective from Monday.
However, the green pass is still needed for entry into public places in Abu Dhabi.
The announcement comes in support of the ongoing efforts at the country level to achieve sustainable recovery while maintaining public health and safety against the background of the continuation of various activities and return to normality nationwide.
According to the announcement, mask-wearing is mandatory in public indoor spaces and optional outdoors. It’s also been decided to cancel the quarantine requirements for COVID-19 contacts. Covid contacts working in all state sectors have to conduct a PCR test daily for five days’ time.
