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UAE-India travel guide: No PCR tests required; other Covid safety rules explained

With india resuming international flights from march 27, travel between the two countries is back to pre-pandemic levels..

Sahim Salim

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Published: Sun 27 Mar 2022, 12:35 PM

Last updated: Mon 4 Apr 2022, 3:38 PM

International flights to and from India have started operating at 100 per cent capacity from Sunday, March 27, after a gap of two years. Regular flights had been suspended as a Covid safety measure, with India operating some flights under air bubble agreements with multiple countries, including the UAE.

With travel restrictions eased, flights between the UAE and India are back to pre-pandemic levels.

Dubai-based Emirates, for instance, said it will re-introduce pre-pandemic flight frequencies to its destinations in India from April 1. The airline will be operating 170 weekly flights to nine cities in the country.

Here is a step-by-step guide to planning your travel from the UAE to India and return. These steps are based on the latest updates posted by Air India, Emirates and Etihad Airways on their websites as on March 27. They are subject to change based on regulatory announcements by authorities in the UAE and India.

>> Flying to India

- If you are fully vaccinated against Covid-19 and hold a vaccination certificate issued in India and UAE, you don’t need to take a PCR test. The vaccine doses must have been completed at least 15 days before departure.

- Children aged under 5 years are exempted from PCR tests.

- All relevant documents, including a self-declaration form, must be uploaded on the Air Suvidha portal.

- Only asymptomatic travellers will be allowed to board.

- Passengers are advised to download India’s Aarogya Setu app.

- Thermal screening will be carried out at Indian airports.

- On landing, some passengers will be selected for random PCR testing. They will be allowed to leave after sample collection.

- All travellers are required to self-monitor their health for 14 days after arrival.

>> Flying to the UAE

- All UAE residents can travel to Abu Dhabi and Dubai without GDRFA or ICA approvals.

- If you are fully vaccinated against Covid-19, you don’t need a PCR test to travel to the UAE.

- You also don’t need to take a test if you hold a Covid-19 recovery certificate issued within 30 days of departure.

- Children aged below 16 flying to Abu Dhabi don’t need to take a test.

- Children aged below 12 flying to Dubai don’t need to take a test.

- All others must take a PCR test within 48 hours of travel.

• UAE-India travel: No PCR test needed for fully vaccinated passengers
• Covid-19: India relaxes restrictions on international travel
• Covid-19: Airlines to resume more UAE-India flights as travel restrictions eased

- Passengers flying to Abu Dhabi need not take a test on arrival. They may undergo one for Dh40.

- If requested, passengers flying to Dubai must undergo a PCR test on arrival. Such passengers chosen at random need to self‑quarantine until they receive a negative result.

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UAE-India travel: everything you need to know as PCR tests dropped for Emirates

Passengers arriving on international flights can skip mandatory home quarantine and tourists from 99 countries no longer need pcr tests.

India lifted a ban on international flights on March 27. AFP

India has updated entry requirements for incoming travellers, removing the need for vaccinated passengers from certain countries to present a negative PCR test result on arrival.

The rules now apply to travellers from 99 countries, including the UAE, Oman, Saudi Arabia and Lebanon .

Passengers who received both doses of their Covid-19 vaccination in India also no longer need to present a negative PCR result, meaning Indian residents returning to the country from the UAE are exempt from having to take a test when leaving the Emirates.

If you’re planning to travel to India in the near future, here’s everything you need to know before you go.

Do I need to quarantine in India?

Travellers arriving in India no longer need to quarantine after authorities revoked the rule on seven-day mandatory home isolation for passengers coming from overseas. Only travellers who are symptomatic, and subsequently test positive for Covid-19, will have to quarantine.

Instead, all travellers should self-monitor their health for 14 days from the date they arrive in India.

Do the new rules apply to vaccinated passengers?

The new rules apply to all arriving passengers, regardless of vaccination status.

Do children need to quarantine on arrival in India?

No, children do not need to quarantine on arrival, but parents should monitor their symptoms for 14 days after arriving in the country.

Do I need a negative PCR test to take a flight?

Vaccinated arrivals from certain countries no longer need to present a negative PCR test result when flying to India. Passengers who received both doses of a Covid-19 vaccination in India will also no longer need to present a negative PCR result, regardless of the country they are flying from.

There are 99 countries on the list from where PCR tests are not required, including the UAE. The detailed list can be found here and is updated regularly.

All other travellers must have a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of departure. Travellers should upload the test results to the Air Suvidha portal before flying.

The best thing in these testing times is getting a COVID-19 test done before you get on your flight. Because you deserve to enjoy your time in the sky.  Book your RT-PCR & Rapid PCR slot now. https://t.co/WDL1C6TunY pic.twitter.com/zaaHFo71Qy — Delhi Airport (@DelhiAirport) January 7, 2022

Children below 5 are exempt from testing rules both pre and post-arrival, but those aged 5 and above must follow the rules in place for adults. Any children who develop symptoms of Covid-19 at any point during their trip will have to take a PCR test, regardless of age.

What do I need to do before flying to India?

There are a few documents that need to be submitted by passengers travelling to India.

Firstly, there is a self-declaration form which can be submitted online via the Air Suvidha portal , this needs to be filled in before travel and must include details of any countries visited in the previous 14 days.

A declaration also needs to be completed for each passenger, certifying that the Covid-19 negative certificate submitted is authentic, and an undertaking to face criminal charges if it turns out otherwise.

Travellers also need to download the Aarogya Setu app on their mobile devices for Covid-19 track and trace purposes in India.

Will I be tested for Covid-19 on arrival in India?

Some travellers will need to undergo further PCR testing for Covid-19 on arrival in India. New regulations state that 2 per cent of total passengers on each flight will undergo random post-arrival testing at the airport.

These travellers will be identified by the airlines. After the on-arrival test, they can leave the airport and will only need to isolate if they test positive.

There will also be thermal screening by health officials in airports across the country.

Is India still using its 'at-risk' list for travel?

The most recent update to India's travel rules means that the previous "at-risk" list of countries from where travellers had to undergo additional entry rules no longer applies.

What happens if I test positive while in India?

If you develop symptoms and subsequently get a positive PCR test result, then you’ll have to go to an isolation facility where a doctor will assess you and advise on the follow-up process.

Close contacts of a positive case will be contacted, including co-passengers and anyone in the home or hotel where the person with Covid-19 has been isolating. Fellow passengers who were seated three rows in front and three rows behind anyone who tests positive will also be considered close contacts.

Until when are the new rules in place?

No end date has been set for the new home quarantine rules with official documents stating that the rules are in place until “further orders”.

India recorded 913 new Covid-19 cases on April 3 alongside 13 new deaths, according to Johns Hopkins University data.

The country has recorded more than 43 million total cases since the onset of the global pandemic, says Johns Hopkins.

Anything else I need to know?

Different states in India may also have their own rules for Covid-19 management, so travellers should check the rules in place for the destination they are travelling to.

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Flying to Dubai from India? Here are the guidelines you should follow

Dubai-based emirates airline announced recently it will resume services from india, south africa and nigeria, after officials in dubai eased travel norms for passengers from the three countries..

Emirates airline will on Wednesday resume flights between the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and India as announced recently by the UAE-based airline. The announcement came after authorities in Dubai, on June 19, eased travel curbs for passengers from three countries, including India.

Also Read: Dubai eases travel curbs for fully vaccinated Indian travellers

Following the easing of travel norms, Emirates had said in a statement, “We welcome the latest protocols and measures announced by Dubai’s Supreme Committee and Disaster Management to allow the safe resumption of passenger travel from South Africa, Nigeria and India to Dubai onwards. We will resume carrying passengers from South Africa, Nigeria and India in accordance with these protocols from June 23 onwards.” The UAE first suspended air travel to and from India in April as the latter battled a devastating second wave of Covid-19; the ban was later extended till July 6.

Here are the guidelines you need to follow if flying from India to Dubai:

(1.) Passengers with a valid e-residence visa, who have received two jabs of the Covid-19 vaccines approved in the UAE, will be allowed in Dubai. The following four vaccines have been approved in the UAE: Sinopharm, Pfizer-BioNTech E, Sputnik V and Oxford University-AstraZeneca shot.

(2.) All the passengers flying to Dubai from India need to show a negative RT-PCR report from a test conduct 48 hours before departure. Also, only QR-coded negative PCR test reports will be accepted.

(3.) Additionally, passengers flying to Dubai will have to take another Covid-19 test – a rapid PCR one – four hours before departure. They will have to undergo further RT-PCR testing upon arrival.

(4.) Passengers from India will undergo institutional quarantine till their RT-PCR test report is out, likely within 24 hours of the test.

Dubai airport’s Terminal 1 will reopen on Thursday after a 15-month closure. Flights were operated through Terminal 2 and Terminal 3 last year amid the Covid-19 pandemic.

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• Here’s what you need to travel from India to UAE and onward…

• Peden Doma Bhutia ,
• ETTravelWorld
• Updated On Aug 5, 2021 at 02:55 PM IST

@EdenLama4 Hi Eden, only UAE residence visa holders who have been fully vaccinated in the UAE and hold an official… https://t.co/V4LNFojrJ1 — Emirates Support (@EmiratesSupport) 1628151641000

• By Peden Doma Bhutia ,
• Published On Aug 5, 2021 at 02:54 PM IST

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Why You Should Book Emirates Flights between USA and India; 5 Things to Check Other than Best Fare Deals

Emirates Airlines is in the world’s top 10 safest airlines for 2023, according to AirlineRatings.com that rates airlines against various parameters of safety in the sky every year . Other than a good safety rating and highly competitive fare deals, Emirates flights have other reasons to woo you on board during a long-haul international flight between USA and India.

IndianEagle.com , a most trusted USA-India travel booking portal, handpicked five best experiences as compelling reasons to book Emirates Airlines flight tickets for your upcoming travel. In September 2022, Emirates received three Skytrax World Airline Awards, including World’s Best Economy Class for its steadfast commitment to making international economy flights comfortable and enjoyable through periodic upgrades in seating, service, catering and technology.

PC: Emirates Airlines

Let your kids be pampered on board

Inarguably, Emirates is one of the best family-friendly airlines for catering to kids’ needs on board. Be it dietary care to or infight entertainment of children, Emirates goes an extra mile to ensure parents travel in comfort. Children’s meals available on Emirates Airlines flights to India from USA are served to young travelers aged between two and 12. If your child has specific diet requirements, you can make a choice from Emirates’ children-only inflight meals during or after booking your travel.

The availability of organic baby food on board makes Emirates flights the first preference of family travelers with kids younger than 2 years . The airline assures, “You can rest easy knowing your little one is properly nourished on board”. If you carry home-made baby food or milk, you can get it reheated on the aircraft. Also, Emirates’ flight attendants provide bottle-warming service. Those not carrying baby food from home can request it as baby-feeding bottles and milk formula loaded with essential nutrients are available for free on Emirates flights from Boston to Chennai , Emirates flights from San Francisco to Kolkata , and on other routes between USA and India.

Among the top kids-friendly airlines, Emirates loves to keep young travelers entertained and occupied on board . The airline’s award-winning inflight entertainment comprises children-specific programs including 50 Disney classic films that leave little room for your child to throw tantrums. Flight attendants provide funky headphones that children can put on comfortably to tune to their favorite channel or program. Apart from that, older children are provided with age-appropriate activity packs so that they don’t get bored during such long-haul Emirates flights from Seattle to Delhi , and on other routes from India to USA.

“Emirates Airlines makes traveling with kids easier by providing complimentary strollers in Terminal 3 at Dubai International Airport. With your baby cruising in a stroller, you can easily get around the terminal and experience various facilities during a layover at Dubai Airport. Some of our customers flying with Emirates described this as an ‘incredible service’”, said the chief travel advisor of IndianEagle.com . The strollers are sanitized and disinfected for the safety of kids, as assured by the airline.

Let your taste buds relish regional delights  

Regionally inspired inflight dining is one of the reasons to grab the best deals for Emirates flights between USA and India . Dubai’s flag carrier is known for treating India-bound passengers to a selection of festive dishes when an Indian festival like Navaratri or Diwali is around. Even cheap Emirates economy flights to India offer a fulfilling infight dining experience.

There are two onboard menus – one for the first international leg from USA to Dubai, and the other for the connecting leg from Dubai to India. Likewise, Emirates Airlines’ India to USA flights have two different menus. You will be served Greek yoghurt with berry compote, Kanchipuram idlis and uthappam with sambar, Pav with Akuri (a spicy scrambled egg dish in the Paris cuisine of India), Sevaiyan topped with roasted almonds and pistachios, and Breakfast cake with a selection of tea, coffee and juices during the first leg of Emirates flights from Hyderabad to Dallas , from Bangalore to Chicago ORD , from Kolkata to New York JFK , and on other routes from India to USA.

Economy travelers are literally pampered on the connecting flight from Dubai to New York, Chicago, Seattle, Boston, Newark, San Francisco, Dallas, Houston, and D.C. The menu has grilled chicken (served with baked beans, creamed spinach, potato croquette), braised chicken with steamed basmati rice, grilled vegetable crepes (served with potato hash, sautéed spinach and mushrooms), and mutter paneer with jeera rice in the main course. Emirates Pizza and Toasted smoked turkey sandwich are the vegetarian snacks on the menu. Desserts include fresh seasonal fruit and chocolate mousse cake. Chickpea salad with potatoes and wild rice is served as an appetizer.

Travel in comfort on Emirates A380 flights

Emirates Airlines’ fleet primarily consists of Airbus 380s and Boeing 777s. Both the aircraft types are deployed for Emirates flights between USA and India via Dubai . In India, only Mumbai and Bangalore are the destinations for Emirates’ A380 flights from Houston and New York JFK. The world’s largest double-decker A380 with top-notch cabin interiors, cushioned seating with plenty of legroom, bigger entertainment screens, and attentive flight attendants makes a compelling reason to book Emirates flight tickets from Houston IAH to Bengaluru , and New York JFK to Mumbai, India. Starting in mid-February 2023, A380s will be deployed for Emirates flights from SFO to Mumbai (BOM) and Bengaluru (BLR).

Interestingly, Emirates’ Premium Economy is being rolled out across the fleet of more than 120 Airbus 380s. Emirates Premium Economy flights to India from USA and other countries are expected to take off in 2024 . Fully-flat beds, complimentary Wi-Fi, and onboard lounge are the flagship features of Emirates A380 business class flights from Houston IAH to Mumbai , and New York to Bengaluru. Even economy cabins of Emirates A380s are worth a mention for spacious seats with adjustable headrests, multicourse regional meals, and seamless access to hundreds of entertainment programs on the seat-back HD TV. Economy seats are 18-inch wide and come with 32-inch legroom on A380s – which make you travel in comfort and at ease.

Fly entertained on Emirates

Emirates Airlines has received Skytrax Awards in the ‘Best Inflight Entertainment’ category for more than 12 years. Traveling alone on one-stop Emirates flights between USA and India? The huge content lot of 5000 movies, music, sports videos, TV shows, and web series will keep your company throughout your solo flight. There is unlimited Indian regional content that may leave you spoilt for choice.

Emirates’ award-winning inflight entertainment system (ICE) offers a good selection of Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, Bengali, Hindi, Kannada, Gujarati and Marathi movies as well as TV shows . You can binge watch Joji, Marakkar, The Priest, Drishyam 2, and Gold Case in Malayalam; Jai Bhim, Kobra, Kaadan, and Karnan in Tamil; Radhe Shyam, Bangarraju, Konda Polam, and Aranya in Telugu; Jhara Palak, Kuler Achar, Pratidwandi, and Kakababur Protyaborton in Bengali; Chandramukhi, Jivan Sandhya, and Pawankhind in Marathi; KGF, Physics Teacher, Four Walls, and Amruth Apartments in Kannada.

Get Emirates’ free Dubai stopover program   

One of the reasons to book low-fare Emirates flights between India and USA is Dubai Connect, a Dubai stopover program for international transit passengers with a minimum 8-hour layover . Depending on the transit time in your itinerary, you can apply for a “Dubai Connect” package that includes complimentary hotel stay, meals, airport transfers, and a complimentary transit visa to Dubai. Having a US visitor visa (B1/B2) or a Green Card valid for 6 months is key to establishing your eligibility for a visa on arrival in Dubai. Or else, you need to pre-arrange a transit visa to Dubai. Only US nationals and citizens are eligible for the UAE’s free visa on arrival.

Dubai City sightseeing is one of the best perks of flying on Emirates between USA and India . Unlike Abu Dhabi International Airport, Dubai DXB Airport lets you go out to explore the city even during a layover shorter than 8 hours. Interestingly, until 31 March 2023, you can use your boarding pass as “My Emirates Pass” to unlock special deals and grab discount offers at tourist spots, restaurants, museums, theme parks and brand stores in Dubai. We recommend checking our exclusive Dubai Layover Guide for further information.

Disclaimer : Emirates Airlines’ inflight services and amenities may vary depending on routes, aircraft types deployed across the network, and fare types. The information that this article provides is mostly obtained from the airline website, the accuracy or authenticity of which is not guaranteed by Indian Eagle.

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259 thoughts on “ why you should book emirates flights between usa and india; 5 things to check other than best fare deals ”.

I have one question. I know anyone traveling from US to India has to do RT PCR test except in case of death. What about those who are vaccinated & tested positive and they waited for their quarantine period (10 days.). Do they again need to go for RT PCR test and what if again their report comes as positive. It will be great if you can explain or provide how some1 can. travel to India in this case.

Hi Gagan! As far as we know, there is no such exemption and you will be required to submit your negative RT-PCR report to travel to India despite being fully-vaccinated and recovered from the virus.

Hi, I have one question. Are the flights started? Can we travel from the US to India with an RT/PCR test?

Hi Alex! As far as we know, there is no problem in flying from the US to India. Please be advised to call our travel advisors at 01-800-615-3969 to book the best travel deals as well as get accurate information for a smooth travel.

Can I fly from Mumbai to Dallas on Emirates on Indian passport? Any special requirement apart from negative covid report? Thanks

Hi Prasad! There are travel restrictions placed by the US on India. Only a certain group of travelers are exempted and allowed to travel to the US. Please be advised to go through https://www.indianeagle.com/travelbeats/usa-india-air-travel-restrictions/

I have a flight from delhi to seattle on july 28th, got email that flights has been cancelled?

Hi Kiran! If you are a customer of Indian Eagle, please be advised to call our support desk.

Hi, My wife need to Travel from India to USA on Emirates Flight. There will be layover in Dubai. Is there any travel restrictions if she is on H-4 visa. And does she need to quarantine in Dubai for 14 days.

Please advice.

Hi Pratik! As of now, Emirates has suspended flights from India until August 7. So she won’t be able to travel Emirates until the ban is lifted.

Hello, We have a Flight from Hyderabad to Miami on August 12th with Stop at Dubai. Will there be any issues or cancellations of this flight. I just bought the tickets few days ago. We are US Citizens. Please advise!

Hi Rafi! To the best of our knowledge, you are not eligible for transit in Dubai. Travelers who have been in India during 14 days before their planned departure for the UAE are barred from arriving or transiting in Dubai.

Hello , I have a flight from New Delhi to jfk on 18th august with transit at Dubai

I am going on f1 visa . Please let me know if there are any issues

From jfk I have connecting flight to Dallas

Hi Gurupartap! There won’t be any issue as UAE is allowing transit passengers from India to travel via Dubai from August 5.

Hi Any idea about flights from UK to India? I tried to book a flight from UK to India and the travel consultant said that India is allowing flights from UK to India via Dubai but on returning ticket India is not allowing people to transit through Dubai . That really doesn’t make sense as you are allowed to come in to India but you cannot fly the same route back to UK

Hi Ramakant! To the best of our knowledge, there are direct flights from the UK to India.

what is transit traveller

Hi Sonu! If you take a stopover or layover in a third country while traveling from USA to India, or from India to USA, you are a transit traveler.

Hi Is it allowed to travel from India to Dubai (Air Dubai) and Dubai to USA ( Emirates). With a valid US visa and NIE approval.

Hi Prasanna! You can travel on Emirates via Dubai. We are booking the best flights on Emirates for our customers. You can on IndianEagle.com or call our travel advisors at 01-800-615-3969.

Hi, I am on H1B visa with a NIE approval. Can i fly with Emirates with transit at Dubai ?

Hi Gokul! Yes, you can. FYI we have the best fare deals for cheap Emirates flights from India to the US. You can check on our website IndianEagle.com or call our travel advisors at 001-800-615-3969.

Need urgent Info, My Brother is on F1 Student Visa, he is traveling from India to Dubai (Emirates) and Dubai to USA ( Emirates) . He is fully vaccinated with CoviShield .

Concern: I would like to know, is he allowed to USA from Emirates flight ? is there any restrictions in Dubai traveling from India? his halting time is 15 hours in Dubai .

Thanks Ramesh

Hi Ramesh! He can travel on Emirates flights. Please note he should have a single PNR for the entire itinerary from India to Dubai and Dubai to USA. Having a single PNR, he will be able to enter and transit in Dubai.

Are there flights now from JFK to Hyderabad ?

Hi Kris! There are flights from JFK to Hyderabad. Please call our travel advisors at 01-800-615-3969 to get the best deals for cheap flights from NY JFK to Hyderabad.

Can students travel on Emirates to USA without any hassles and are fully vaccinated. Do they need to quarantine or can travel via Dubai

Hi Vivek! Indian students with valid US visa can travel on Emirates flights via Dubai.

Sir I’m a F-1 visa holder. And I’ve a ticket of New Delhi to New York on 19th with transit time of 4 hours 30 minutes at Dubai. I’m 17 and travelling alone without vaccination. Would I be able to finish a smooth travel or anything else is required?

Hi Bhavya! Vaccination is not mandatory for entry to the US. So no worries. Make sure to take an RT-PCR test within 72 hours of boarding the flight at Delhi Airport.

Hi , Is Emirates allowing passengers with valid H1B visa and NIE Exception to board flights from India to USA?

Hi Raman! Indians with a valid visa and NIE approval can travel on Emirates flights from India to the US.

I have a B-2 visa and need to make my way back to India for a project. From what I have read I should be able to get a flight from Orlando through Dubai, correct?

Hi CJ! There are Emirates flights from Orlando to India via Dubai. You can check the best Emirates flights on our portal IndianEagle.com.

Hi there. Can we stay in Dubai for 14 days on transit visa? This is for india to dubai to US travel so basically using Dubai as the third country travel route.

Hi Christine! The UAE is still not open for 14-day stopover of Indians.

Hi, Can vaccinated Indian national (mother of H1 resident in USA) with valid traveler B1/B2 visa (without NIE) enter USA transitioning through third country like UAE or Qatar or any other country? If Yes, how many days required to stay in the third country?

Hi Ankur! Following a 14/15-day stopover in a third country, to say Doha or Mexico, Indian nationals with B1/B2 visa can enter the United States. Please go through this guide https://www.indianeagle.com/travelbeats/bypass-us-india-travel-ban-via-qatar/

Hi there. Can we stay in Dubai for 14 days and travel to USA as Dubai lifted ban on Indian travelers ? We have valid US H1B and H4 visas. We are not fully vaccinated so cannot opt for Qatar as third country.

Hi Shilpa! Dubai does not yet allow Indian travelers to take a stopover before their onward travel to a third country. Indians traveling on Emirates or Etihad flights are allowed a few hours of transit in a separate transit lounge at Dubai and Abu Dhabi Airports.

I am a canadian citizen stranded in India. I had a flight for 13th Aug for cochin dubai toronto. Can i travel from cochin dubai newyork or any destination in US and stay there till i get a PCR test done there and go to Toronto. I have already have taken my 2 vacination

Hi Mathew! Being a Canadian citizen you are eligible for travel to Canada via Dubai and the US. Please note you are required to meet the testing and quarantine measures as mandated by the government of the US and Canada.

Hi, I am a US citizen (OCI card) planning to visit family in Kerala in September. The plan is to fly into to Kochi via Dubai on Emirates. A couple of questions I have are:

1. Is a negative RT-PCR report taken in the US (within 72 hours of departure) sufficient, or do I need to take another COVID test upon arrival in Kochi? 2. I plan on staying in Kerala for 10 days only and will return to the US after that, via the same route. The way I understand this, for short term stays like this, I just monitor myself and there are no other quarantine or restrictions. Is that correct? 3. For the return trip to US (transit via Dubai), is a negative RT-PCR test taken in Kochi (within 72 hours of departure) sufficient? I ask because somewhere I read (I think) something like a COVID test needed within 4 hours of departure for people traveling from India to Dubai (even transit).

Thank you, Ravi

Hi Ravi! Because of your transit in the Middle East, you need to give your swab sample for a molecular test on arrival at Kochi Airport. However, you will be able to exit the airport without having to wait for the test result. If the test result comes negative, you will be advised self-monitoring of health. There are no other restrictions. For return travel to USA from India and transit in Dubai, you need to take an RT-PCR test within 72 hours prior to boarding in India.

Thank you for your reply. For the travel to India, Emirates has sent me an email that has a requirement like this:

“All passengers must submit an undertaking form on the online portal agreeing to follow advice by the appropriate government authority to undergo home quarantine or self‑monitoring of their health for 14 days or as mandated”

This is mentioned in addition to the self declaration form requirement at the Air Suvidha portal. Also, the link they provide above takes me to the Air Suvidha portal only. Only problem is, there is no such ‘undertaking form’ there. Can you please tell me where to find this form?

Also, I will be there in Kochi for 10-11 days only. For such a short duration stay, is there a requirement for home quarantine for 7 days in Kochi? (since I will have a negative COVID PCR test result from the US, and I have also been fully vaccinated)

thanks again! Ravi.

Hi! I want to bring my parents to US from India on B1/B2 visa. They might want to visit Dubai too. Is it fine to book a ticket initially from India to Dubai, stay for a week and book another from Dubai to US?

or any other recommendation is highly encouraged.

And I know they need to take RT-PCR test again in Dubai, but can you confirm?

Hi Mantra! The UAE is not yet open for visitors from India. Only those Indians who have Dubai residence visa can visit Dubai and stay there. The UAE allows only transit travelers from India on Emirates and Etihad Airways flights. Your parents can enter the US following a 14-day stopover in Doha. Please go through https://www.indianeagle.com/travelbeats/bypass-us-india-travel-ban-via-qatar/

Hi there ! Since, Dubai is now open for visitors having B1/B2 as tourists, I am planning to visit US via after quarantine in Dubai. Would we be able to continue our journey to USA after spending 14 days in UAE.

And, what are the other requirements ?

Kindly confirm. Thanks, much appreciated.

Hi Sanjay! The UAE is not yet open to visitors from India. We know that the UAE has announced visa on arrival for Indians having US visitor visa. FYI, the visa on arrival is for those Indians (with B1/b2 visa) when they plan to take a stopover in Dubai or Abu Dhabi while traveling to India from the US.

Is Emirates flying right now from USA (Seattle) to India? I have a ticket for tomorrow but I am not sure I will be able to travel.

Emirates Airlines is operating flights from Seattle to India. Please be advised to call Emirates for reconfirmation. If you are one of our customers, you can call our support desk at 1-800-615-3969.

Hi, Did anyone travelled through Emirates with H1B and NIE approval from India to USA? I have contacted couple of Emirates Customer service folks and they are not aware of NIE

Hi Kotesh! No problem. Many in the customer service team of non-US airlines are not aware of NIE.

Hi Team, I can see an update saying that Indians with valid visa for at least 6 months are eligible for visa on arrival at UAE if we are travelling via Ethihad. Can we stay there for 14 days and then travel back to USA after 14 days? Please confirm thanks in advance

Hi Abin! The UAE is not yet open to visitors from India. We know that the UAE has announced visa on arrival for Indians having US visitor visa. FYI, the visa on arrival is for those Indians (with B1/b2 visa) when they plan to take a stopover in Dubai or Abu Dhabi while traveling to India from the US.

I am on H1B with NIE. I will be eligible to travel to USA via emirates ..right??

Hi Simran! Yes, you are eligible for direct entry to the US. You can travel on Emirates via Dubai.

When can Indian citizens with a visitor visa travel to the US? I need to bring my mom to the US ASAP.

Hi Srini! Mostly, Indians on B2 visa are subject to the Presidential Proclamation 10199. She can enter the US with the help of NIE or following a 14-day stay/quarantine in a third country.

Question – my parents have a valid B2 visa, and are booked on Emirates, can they now spend 14 days in Dubai and then travel to the US? Any other details I should be aware of?

Hi Sajay! The UAE has opened to fully vaccinated tourist visa holders from India. Please note only those immunized with two doses of Covishield are welcome to the UAE where they can take a 14-day stopover before entering the US. We covered a full-fledged article on this topic shortly.

Hi, I have a valid h4 visa and planning to travel from mumbai to seattle via dubai (emirates airline). Can I quarantine at dubai for 14 days and then fly to Seattle? Am i eligible for visa on arrival?

Hi Arpit! You’re not eligible for visa on arrival in the UAE. You need to apply for a UAE tourist visa. If granted, you can enter Dubai and take a 14-day stopover there before traveling onward to the US. For more information, please check https://www.indianeagle.com/travelbeats/uae-tourist-visa-indians/

Hello, I am planning to travel from San Francisco to Mumbai(final destination) via Emirates flight that transits through Dubai. I have a valid visa from the Indian Consulate. Based on your earlier responses, there will be a swab test at the Mumbai airport. Do I need to wait for results ? Is there a mandatory 7 day institutional quarantine in Maharashtra independent of the result or is it only if the test is positive ? Thank you very much for answering my question.

Hi Anna! As per the new updates, there is no institutional quarantine for those traveling from or transiting through the UK or the Middle East.

Hi Can B2 visa holders take a stop over of 3 months in Dubai and then come to USA ? Travel will be India ->Dubai ( 3 months stay ) -> USA return Journey USA -> Dubai ( 1-2 months stay ) -> India

Hi Preetha! As 3 months or 90 days is the maximum validity of a UAE tourist visa, a B2 visa holder from India can stay for 3 months in Dubai. Initially, the visa is valid for 30 days, which can be extended twice for 30 days each time. Please note the UAE is open to only fully-vaccinated tourists from India. Please check the list of vaccines approved by the UAE government https://www.indianeagle.com/travelbeats/uae-tourist-visa-indians/

Can we travel to Delhi from USA via Dubai and come back from Delhi to USA via Dubai. While going, want to travel Dubai for 3 days and then go to Delhi. 1 h1b holder without stamping but valid visa ,2 H4 without stamping but valid visa,1 minor kid US born. Is it possible?

Hi Mann! You can travel via Dubai as a transit traveler. For a stopover of 3 days or more in Dubai, you need to apply for a UAE tourist visa. Please note only fully-vaccinated tourists are welcome for a stay in Dubai. Please check https://www.indianeagle.com/travelbeats/uae-tourist-visa-indians/ for the list of vaccines approved by the UAE government.

I got my US citizenship recently and holding US passport can I travel to India with Indian visa now

Hi Ramanujam! May we know what visa to India you do have? Please note the tourist visa is currently suspended. You need an entry X visa.

If an US citizen is on ENTRY visa to India, can they stop over in Dubai, by getting on ARRIVAL visa? I am planning to accompany my mother who has visitor’s visa to USA and planning to stay in Dubai for 14 days before travelling to USA. Can my mother also get on arrival visa in Dubai for her stay Or should she get tourist visa only before travel to Dubai? Thanks

Hi Sree! US citizens are eligible for visa on arrival in the UAE given they have confirmed flight tickets for return travel or onward travel and their passport must be valid for 6 months from the time of arrival in the UAE. It is better to apply for your mother’s UAE visa before traveling to Dubai.

Can b1/b2 visa holders travel from India to USA via Dubai quarantine in Dubai for 14 days in residence and then enter in to USA??is there any rule that they travelers should hotel quarantine??

Hi Sharmi! There is no quarantine in Dubai for fully-vaccinated (please check the WHO-approved vaccines in the article below) travelers from India. Please go through this article https://www.indianeagle.com/travelbeats/uae-tourist-visa-indians/

Hi, I am a green card holder. Can I travel from US to India via dubai in emirates in the month of October. Please advise

Hello! Yes, you can travel to India via Dubai from US. Please be advised to call our travel advisors at 01-800-615-3969 to book the best travel deals.

Hi, I have a valid H1B visa. Can I travel from India to USA via Dubai with 14 days quarantine in Dubai? Please let me know what special consideration required and is it possible? I am fully vaccinated with covaxin

Hi Divya! You can if you have a UAE tourist visa. Please go through our guide https://www.indianeagle.com/travelbeats/uae-tourist-visa-indians/

Hi , I am on H1B visa which is valid till next one year. Can I travel to USA via Dubai without Quarantine. I am fully vaccinated.

Hi Sai! If you are fully vaccinated with a WHO-approved vaccine, you can enter Dubai and have a quarantine-free stay there.

I am traveling to Kochi, Kerala via Emirates. Emirates has sent me an email listing out all the requirements needed for the travel, like registering at the Air Suvidha portal etc. But they also mention about submitting an ‘undertaking form’, it goes like this (below). The link in it takes you to the https://www.newdelhiairport.in/ site but there is just no undertaking form there. Any suggestions on where I can get this undertaking form?

thank you! Ravi

Are senior citizens are permited to take with them (with priscribed medicines for daily usage by qualified Doctor at india with prescription on hand for around 5months to stay with their kith and kin at USA . Since Dubai being taken as third country option to USA and not as transit . Does this are permitted legally and not viewd as violation as per Health ministry of DUBAI.

If a person from Mumbai is vaccinated with Covaxin(awaiting WHO approval) does he need to have hotel/institutional quarantine in Dubai during the 15 day stay. Is it 15 nights or 14 nights before flying to JFK. He has Valid B1/B2 visa and can he get visa on arrival in Dubai for the 15 day stay. If he flies EMirates can he choose his own hotel or stay with relatives Request an snarky response

Hi Yogesh! In the first place, Dubai not open to those who are vaccinated with Covaxin.

Hi! What are the guidelines to travel to USA from india via DUBAI

Hi Vatika! If you are not subject to the Presidential Proclamation, all you need is a negative COVID PCR report with a QR code from India. If you are subject to the presidential proclamation, you can take a 15-day stopover in Dubai before traveling to the US. You can also go through https://www.indianeagle.com/travelbeats/uae-tourist-visa-indians/

Hi , I am planning to travel from USA to Chennai via Dubai on the 22nd of October , are the flights operating as normal ? Last time i booked my flights from Chicago to Dubai and it got cancelled in May 2021 , what is the probablity that the flights wont get cancelled again ? I cant take a chance now as i am travelling on an emergency , are the flights operating between Chicago to Dubai and Dubai to chennai with out any cancellations now ?Please advice

Hi Pradeep! Emirates flights are on between USA and India. Sometimes, flights get cancelled due to low occupancy, geo-political tensions, natural calamity, or schedule revision.

Hi, I am a US citizen, I dont have OCI or PIO card yet. I have Entry Visa. Have booked tickets to India via Emirates airlines from SFO to MAA transiting through Dubai. However travel requirements to India posted in Emirates website seem to indicate that I dont qualify for travel via Emirates airline. https://www.emirates.com/us/english/help/covid-19/travel-requirements-by-destination/ In Indian govt website – https://www.civilaviation.gov.in/en/about-air-transport-bubbles its mentioned that “Indian and US carriers are now permitted to operate services between India and USA”. Since Emirates is not a US or an Indian carrier, this also raises concern. In this website its clearly mentioned that US citizens on Entry visa can travel to India on Emirates airline. Can you please clarify this discrepancy and possibly share any supporting document from govt. website or Emirates website that I can carry with me to prove my eligibility to travel Emirates airline to airport authorities in case I am detained from boarding the flight? ​

thank you Ram

Hi Ram! If your entry visa does not have ‘T’ (tourist) mark, you can travel to India. Emirates is also operating air bubble flights between USA and India via Dubai. Many of our customers who we booked on Emirates’ air bubble flights have traveled between USA and India.

I’m a US citizen and I have a business visa for India (it’s a paper visa in my passport and it valid through 2023). Similar question to above – I’m flying on Emirates to Chennai 30 Oct 2021, and their guidance here https://www.emirates.com/us/english/help/covid-19/travel-requirements-by-destination/ is unclear and inconsistent with the information here https://www.civilaviation.gov.in/en/about-air-transport-bubbles

Will I be able to board the flight and travel to India?

Thank you, Anna

Hi Anna! In our knowledge, your business visa in paper format is valid for travel to India. You can travel on Emirates flights to India. We booked Emirates flights for our customers who have traveled between USA and India hassle-free. Do still be advised to check with the embassy or consulate in your jurisdiction or the airline.

Hi I am a Canadian Citizen working in the US. I plan to visit my family in Ahmedabad. There is a flight from Seattle-> Dubai -> AMD. Will I be able to travel as long as I provide a negative RT-PCR test for both ways?

Hi Punit! You can make a round trip between US and India without restrictions. With a negative report for the RT-PCR test to be taken within 72 hours prior to traveling from Seattle, you can enter India. If you are fully vaccinated with a WHO-listed vaccine, you can travel back to the US without hassles. Please let us know if you have any other concern.

Hi, I am an Indian on F1 visa working on opt in San Jose. I have been vaccinated. I will be travelling to India in Nov 20 via Emirates and return on Dec 25. I have a 20 hour layover at Dubai during return. Can I take a transit visa and see Dubai during that time. Will I be eligible for any Emirates hotel for this long transit period in night. If not what option do I have. Thanks Hitesh

Hi Hitesh! As your layover duration is more than 8 hours, you are eligible for a Dubai transit visa. Please note you have to book a hotel accommodation in Dubai for availing the transit visa. You can apply for Dubai transit visa from the official website of the Dubai immigration authority.

Hi, Thanks for reply. Do I need to take another rt PCR test in Dubai if I go out of the airport ? Also since layover is greater than 10′ hours I have to go out of airport in believe? Will I get the reports back before the next flight which is only 20hrs. Do I have the option to stay at airport itself.

Hi Hitesh! It is not mandatory to go out of Dubai airport even if the layover is greater than 10 hours. It is up to you. If you choose to get out of the airport, you may be needed to take a rapid antigen test. There are lounges and other accommodation options at Dubai Airport.

I am an Indian on H1B Visa going to India for stamping purpose around 1st week of December. I have a 19 hour layover in dubai while travelling from USA to INDIA. Will i be able to visit Dubai during that time taking a dubai E-Visa ? We will be getting a Covid test done before our travel to India. Is there anything else we need to take care of. Are we allowed to travel in Dubai in these times ?

Hi Harsha! As your layover duration is more than 8 hours, you are eligible for a Dubai transit visa. Please note you have to book a hotel accommodation in Dubai for availing the transit visa. You can apply for Dubai transit visa from the official website of the Dubai immigration authority.

HI I am an US citizen and I am traveling to Hyderabad via Dubai in Emirates. I have a flight Seattle -Dubai-Hyderabad.I believe I need to take a RT-PCR test in Hyderabad airport upon arrival and also while coming back Do I need to take another RT-PCR test in Hyderabad as the info provided in the emirates site. My stay in India is for 22days can you please help clarify

Tourists transiting through Dubai All transit passengers must complete all the requirements of their final destination.

Transit passengers from the following countries must present a negative COVID‑19 PCR test certificate for a test taken no more than 72 hours before departure:

Bangladesh, India, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, South Africa, Uganda, Vietnam, Zambia

Transit passengers from these countries with a Dubai Connect booking and/or transit time of more than 10 hours must present a negative COVID‑19 PCR test certificate with a QR code for a test conducted within 48 hours of the time the sample was taken at an approved health facility. Passengers must also present a Rapid PCR test report with a QR code for a test conducted at the departure airport within six hours of departure.

Hi Lily! No test to be taken within 48 hours or within 6 hours prior to boarding at Hyderabad Airport unless you have a Dubai connect booking or more than 10-hour transit time in Dubai.

Our in laws are indian citizens with Indian passport holders. They are travelling on Nov 9 on Emirates via Dubai. They are vaccinated and entry into USA is not a concern. Does India’s travel bubble arrangement allow them to travel on Emirates via Dubai or will be denied boarding? India’s air bubble website is not clear. Any guidance or link that provides clarity is appreciated

Hi Mani! Hope your in-laws are vaccinated with Covishield. They can travel on Emirates flights from India via Dubai.

Thank you for the prompt response. Yes they are covishield vaccinated. Should they mention anything differently with the immigration authorities during exit formality in India or can they just say going to the USA? The department of civil aviation website says people of Indian origin can only to travel to Dubai or of their travel destination is.in Africa or South America. Is there a bulletin that I am missing? Or should we plan on paying for the visa on arrival at Dubai to circumvent the bubble regulation?

Hi Mani! Please go through the guidelines https://www.indianeagle.com/travelbeats/usa-requires-foreign-visitors-vaccinated/ . Dubai’s visa on arrival is required only if Indian travelers take a stopover in Dubai.

Similar situation. Mom/dad coming on B1/B2 visa from BOM-DUB-BOS, moderna fully vaccinated. So from what I am reading, they should be good to transit via dubai, and NO Visa on arrival needed.

Hi Priyanka! They can transit via Dubai/Abu Dhabi. No issues. They don’t require the visa on arrival.

I am an Indian.I have fully vaccinated. I am planning to go SFO via Dubai on 18th November with b1/b2 visa on emirates flight from hyderabad. Can I travel without any problem at present situation . What precautions I have to take before my journey start? Please clarify my doubts.

Hi Babu Rao! If you are vaccinated with Covishield, you are good to travel. Please go through https://www.indianeagle.com/travelbeats/usa-requires-foreign-visitors-vaccinated/ for more information.

We both are fully vaccinated and visa permitted passengers. We booked tickets to Houston on 14th November 2021 by Emirates flights. Can we travel from Hyderabad on the said date? Please clarify.

Hi Satyanarayana! If you are fully vaccinated by Covishield in India, you can travel from Hyderabad on or after November 8.

Parents want to travel from US (San Francisco) to Ahmedabad in next week or two – basically in November. They are Indian citizens and were fully vaccinated in India already.

I have gotten mixed response on whether they can take any airline other than Air India. For example, can they travel from San Francisco to Ahmedabad with Emirates with one stop over in Dubai? What about Etihad airline which goes from San Francisco -> New York -> Doha -> Ahmedabad? Several people I talked to said that we can only take Air India flight. I cannot find any concrete answer on this online anywhere 😐

Hi Mana! Indian citizens from the US can travel on one-stop flights operated by Emirates, Etihad and Qatar Airways. Many of our Indian customers who we booked on Emirates and Qatar Airways flights in the past few months traveled hassle-free to India from the US.

hello, i am indian passport and B2 visa holder, planning to fly new york from mumbai. my Emirates flight is bombay-dubai – milan – new york , where dubai and milan is only transiting for 1.5 hours each. can i fly on this route and will it not break the air bubble pact between india – usa?

Hi Hitesh! You can fly this route.

My Mom-in-Law is traveling on 9th Nov in Emirates from Cochin to Dubai to Orlando (Transit via Dubai ). Please let me know, whether the following is correct,

1. RT PCR Test before 72 hours (someone say 48 hours?) 2. Any other tests ? ( her connecting flight is within 3 hours from Dubai) 3. Vaccinated proof 4. Attestation form (Where to download the attestation form ?)

Thanks Sathish

HI Satish! She must have vaccination proof (international travel certificate from CoWin if vaccinated in India) and a negative report of the COVID-19 viral test taken within 72 hours prior to her scheduled departure from Cochin. You can take a printout of the attestation form https://www.cdc.gov/quarantine/pdf/combined-passenger-attestation-p.pdf

I also have my in laws traveling on 14th and have 5 hrs layover at Dubai. Is 72 hrs enough or has to be within 48 hrs Covid test

HI Jayesh! They should take the COVID test within 72 hours prior to their scheduled departure from India.

At present (07-11-2021) are Gulf based Airlines like Qatar and Emirates operating their flights from India to the US and the other way round. This doubt arises as the Air Bubble Arrangement with Qatar and UAE appears to cover only South American destinations and not the US. Is it safe to book Qatar and Emirates for end November travel.

Hi Qq – My sister is travelling from India to US via Emirates – one way and return on Dec 10 via Qatar. Here transit time in Dubai is 13 hrs. Can she stay in the airport or access the Dubai connect? I’ve seen some blogs saying one will have to leave the airport if the transit time is above 10 hrs. Any clarity here is highly appreciated.

Hi Anuhya! As per the current rules, travelers from restricted countries, including India, are required to leave the airport if the transit time is more than 10 hours. She can apply for ‘Dubai Connect’ online at least 24 hours prior to her scheduled departure from India. Please note a request for ‘Dubai Connect’ is subject to the UAE immigration approval. If approved, she will get complimentary accommodation, visa on arrival and free transfer service. If denied, she must either apply for a visa on arrival or have a pre-approved transit visa for Dubai.

Hi Anuhya, When is your sister travelling? If she has travelled please share her experiences. My parents have 13hr layover as well and they are travelling on Nov 25. Do we need to book our own hotel?

Hi I am planning to go to India from Seattle via Dubai and planning to take Emirates flight from Seattle to Dubai(return) and then separate flight (Indigo) from Dubai to India(return), its 2 separate bookings. I am fully vaccinated with Pfizer. So in that case, do I need to apply for transit visa or short term visa and would it be visa on arrival and would there be any issues with the visa

Hi Ajacks! You don’t need a visa on arrival/transit visa in Dubai unless you have layover for more than 10 hours at Dubai Airport or unless you plan to take a stopover in Dubai.

Thanks for the reply but I would have to go through Dubai’s immigration to collect my bags for my second(IndiGo airline) reservation from Dubai to India, so would i require anything during that

Thank you for your Blog, it’s very informative. I am a US green card holder and planning a trip from seattle to india with a stopover in dubai on the return leg. Am i eligible for a visa on arrival in dubai since i’m coming from india. Also please note that i am fully vaccinated.

Thanks Rajesh

Hi Rajesh! You don’t need a visa on arrival in Dubai unless your itinerary has a layover for more than 10 hours at Dubai Airport or unless you plan to step out of the airport.

Yes, i plan to stay in dubai for a couple of days before i make the return trip back to SEA.

I am on H1B Visa and will be travelling through Emirates from SFO to Mumbai mid november with transit in Dubai. I am fully vaccinated with Pfizer.

Will I just need to take an rt-pcr test within 72 hrs before my departure from SFO and then upload it to the air suvidha portal along with vaccination proof prior to my mumbai flight from dubai ? Or will I also need to take another test on entry in mumbai (& assuming no need to wait at the airport for test results if this is the case) ?

On the return journey, back to SFO from Mumbai with stop over again in dubai – is there still a need to take an rt-pcr test for vaccinated flyers on immigrant H1 B Visa ?

Thanks for all the helpful information ! This article was a godsend.

Hi Sera! It is not mandatory for travelers from the US to upload the vaccination proof on Air Suvidha. You can carry it. If you are found asymptomatic during thermal screening at Mumbai Airport, you are not needed to take any test on arrival. As per the guidelines for travel to the US, you need to take a COVID-19 viral test at an ICMR-approved lab within 72 hours prior to your scheduled departure from Mumbai and carry the original vaccination proof.

Thank you ! To clarify, it’s still mandatory to take a pcr test 72 hrs before departure (from sfo) and upload to Air Suvidha portal for flying into Mumbai right ?

Also, how do I know which facilities are icmr-approved labs in Mumbai ? Is there a directory online that lists this out ?

Hi Sera! It is still mandatory to take an RT-PCR test before traveling to India. You can google for the ICMR-approved labs in Mumbai. FYI, all reputed hospitals have an ICMR-approved COVID-19 testing facility in India.

Hello, My parents are traveling to US from India in Jan 2022 on B2 visa. Are there any restrictions on travel via Dubai thu Emirates. They are fully vaccinated. Trust negative RT PCR test is sufficient.

Hi Jayalakshmi! There are no restrictions for fully-vaccinated Indians’ transit via Dubai. Please make sure the transit time is less than 10 hours at Dubai Airport. If the transit time is 10 hours or more at Dubai Airport, some restrictions will apply to them. FYI, we have very good fare deals for Emirates flights. You can log on to our portal IndianEagle.com or call our travel advisors at 1-800-615-3969 (within the US) for hassle-free selection of the best itinerary and booking of flight tickets. Thank you!

Hi, I have two hours lay over at Dubai airport on my way from USA to India. Can I come out to meet my sister? Is it feasible? Thanks in advance.

Hi Hemang! Please be advised to check with the airline. In our knowledge, there are hassles. You may need a transit visa to step out of the airport.

Hello, I will be traveling to India in Jan 2022 on a 30-day tourist visa. I have heard sometimes Emirates flights gets cancelled from USA to India. Do you have idea about what happens if flight gets cancelled? Will they provide the earliest new flight? I’m concerned because if it does get cancelled and they don’t have any other flights soon, I might miss the event I’m going for

Hi Ronak! As of now, there is no update whether Emirates flights will be cancelled for travel in January 2022. Nothing can be guaranteed given the current volatile scenario.

My parents are travelling from Hyd to IAD through emirates and they have 13hr layover in Dubai. As per latest restrictions i see they might not be eligible for Dubai connect. Will they need to place separate Dubai visa as they have to exist airport and arrange hotel accomodation?

Please fill me in with details on what to do.

Hi Abhinav! If they are not eligible for Dubai Connect, they must apply for a paid visa on arrival or have a pre-approved Dubai transit visa. There are other regulations, like they need to take a Rapid PCR test at Hyderabad Int. Airport within 6 hours of their scheduled departure. A Rapid PCR test costs nearly Rs 5000 per person. Apart from this, they do also need to take a COVID-19 PCR test within 48 hours prior to their scheduled flight to Dubai.

Thanks for your response.

How can i check if my parents are eligible for Dubai Connect?

A Rapid PCR test is required for all passengers travelling through Emirates or only for travellers with 10hr+ layover?

Hi Abhinav! You will get response from the UAE Immigration authority to the online application for a Dubai Connect. Make sure to apply for Dubai Connect a few days (at least 24 hours) before their scheduled flight from India. A rapid RT-PCR test is mandatory for those whose final destination is Dubai and whose transit time is more than 10 hours at Dubai Airport.

Hi I am traveling from Hyderabad to Boston via Dubai. I am is citizen. Are there any restrictions for US citizens travel from India.

Hi Ramagopal! There are no restrictions if the transit time/layover is less than 10 hours at Dubai Airport. You must have your original vaccination proof and a negative COVID-19 viral test report.

My spouse (Indian Citizen, US Visa expired on GC EAD AP) and my daughter (US Citizen) are planning a trip to India. As flight are expenses so we have booked, USA to DUBAI and same day Sharjah to DEL After 20-25 days, DEL to Sharjah and Dubai to USA

Please let me know know the UAE visa on arrival details and COVID restriction process. Do we need pre visa or can get visa on arrival? Do we have to go through test again? They will be carrying RT-PCP from US.

Hi Karan! Being a US citizen, your daughter is eligible for Dubai’s visa on arrival, which does not require advance visa arrangements. Your spouse is not eligible for Dubai’s visa on arrival because of her expired US visa. She must apply for a 48-hr UAE visa prior to her onward and return trips, or a multiple-entry tourist visa (valid for 30 days from the first entry to Dubai). Both travelers (your spouse and daughter) should take an RT-PCR test within 72 hours prior to traveling to Dubai from the US. Please note the UAE has different regulations for the entry of travelers from India. Travelers from India, who will exit Dubai Airport or take a stopover in the UAE or who have the transit time more than 10 hrs at Dubai Airport, need to two tests: An RT-PCR test within 48 hrs prior to scheduled departure from India and a rapid PCR test at the departure airport in India within 6 hours before boarding.

Both and my wife are Indian Citizens, have a valid visa but it expires in less than six months from the date of journey. We are flying Emirates from JFK to Dubai, stay in Dubai for 3 days, and then take the flight to India via Sharjah during the onwards journey. While coming back to US, we are flying to Sharjah from India and then taking flight from Dubai to JFK the same day.

Please let me know know the UAE visa on arrival details and COVID restriction process or any complications we may run into? Thanks in advance for your service and advice.

Hi Harsha! You are not eligible for Dubai’s visa on arrival because your US visa must be valid for 6 months. You should apply for a 96-hr UAE visa prior to your onward trip to Dubai from the US. Both of you should take an RT-PCR test within 72 hours prior to traveling to Dubai from the US. Please note the UAE has different regulations for the entry of travelers from India. Travelers from India, who will exit Dubai Airport or take a stopover in the UAE or who have the transit time more than 10 hrs at Dubai Airport, need to take two tests: an RT-PCR test within 48 hrs prior to scheduled departure from India and a rapid PCR test at the departure airport in India within 6 hours before boarding. You should have the Dubai transit visa during return travel.

I have a flight from SFO to CCU in early December and return back in January. Transit time in Dubai on the journey from USA to India is 16 hrs and on return is 20 hrs (more than 10 in each case) . The flight from SFO to DXB is emirates while from DXB to CCU is FLy dubai. On the return both are emirates. Have the following questions

a> While we are all vaccinated, we understand need to do RT PCR for all passensgers, up to 72 hrs before the flight and have the report ready. b> Do we need to do one more round of vaccination in Dubai as well (note during boarding of the DXB to CCU flight , 72 hrs would have crossed from the first report) ? IF yes, cost estimate for the test ? c> Can I check out in the Dubai Airport (get a visa) and then check back in before the DXB-CCU flight ? d> Would the COVID requirment be different based on I leave or not leave the airport ? e> Do I need to get one more round of COVID test in Kolkata as well (it would be almost 90 hrs after the first test in USA)

************ QUESTION on the return Journey FROM CCU to SFO***************** a> Do we need to do one more round of vaccination in Dubai as well (note during boarding of the DXB to SFO flight , most likely 72 hrs would have crossed from the first report) c> Can I check out in the Dubai Airport (get a visa) and then check back in before the DXB-SFO flight ? d> Would the COVID requirment be different based on I leave or not leave the airport (stay within airport area)? e> Do I need to get one more round of COVID test in SFO as well as well (it would be almost 90 hrs after the first test in India)

Please advise . Thanks for the guidance .

Hi Deb! If you have only one PNR for the entire itinerary from SFO to CCU, it is enough to take an RT-PCR test and get the report issued within 72 hours prior to the first leg of the journey. If there are separate PNRs for SFO to DXB and DXB to CCU, you may consider taking an RT-PCR test at Dubai Airport. Please note additional vaccination is not required in Dubai. You can check out and re-check in at Dubai Airport if you are eligible for a visa on arrival or have a pre-approved transit visa. If you are a US citizen or have a 6-month valid US visa/green card, you are eligible for a visa on arrival at Dubai Airport. If you are asymptomatic, you don’t need to undergo additional testing on arrival at CCU Airport. Again, additional vaccination in Dubai or additional testing at SFO is not required during your return journey.

Please check for “regulations for travelers from India if Dubai transit time is over 10 hours” in https://www.indianeagle.com/travelbeats/air-india-vbm-air-bubble-flights-2020/ . Hope this helps you.

Hi! Fully vaccinated US citizen with eTourist Visa for India (no OCI). Planning travel on Turkish Airlines from New York to Abu Dhabi and on Air Arabia from Abu Dhabi to New Delhi (9 hour layover), both separate tickets (not same PNR). Are there any issues with the air bubble arrangements traveling from Abu Dhabi to Delhi? Any other considerations (COVID testing, visa, etc) to keep in mind? Greatly appreciate the guidance – this is all quite confusing!

Hi! Fully vaccinated US citizen with eTourist Visa (no OCI). Planning travel from New York to Abu Dhabi and Abu Dhabi to Delhi (9 hour layover, separate tickets / PNR); same sequence for the return flight. Any issues with the India leg (inbound and outbound) with respect to UAE air bubble arrangement? Don’t want to be denied boarding on the way there or on the way back. Appreciate the guidance!

Hi Shruti! No issues. If you have all the documents including a negative RT-PCR test report, you are good to travel.

I am a US citizen visiting Dubai for 4 days from Europe and then heading to India after Dec 15th. Fully vaccinated (Moderna) and will have PCR test before UAE and India. Any other restrictions I should be aware of?

HI Amy! No other restriction. Being a US citizen, you are eligible for Dubai’s visa on arrival. Make sure to upload your vaccination proof, a negative RT-PCR report and submit a self-declaration form on Air Suvidha within 72 hours prior to traveling to India from Dubai.

My parents with B1 visa, will be traveling from Chennai(MAA) to DXB to Los Angels (LAX)

They will do the RTPCR test as per the current US guidelines I.e within 3 days of travel. I would like to know as they would be transiting through Dubai with layover of 2 hrs, will they still need RAPID PCR test 6hrs before they onboard Chennai flight ?

Hi Sankar! As the transit time is less than 10 hours, they don’t need to take a rapid RT-PCR test. Please note the USA-bound travelers from India and other countries will be required to take an RT-PCR test within 24 hours, instead of the current 72 hours, from next week.

I am a US Citizen traveling to Kochi India from Washington DC on 10th Dec by Etihad , but my Abu Dhabi to Kochi leg has been cancelled by Etihad. I am working with travel agent to book me to Chennai or Bangalore not sure it will workout. My question is can I book my own ticket to Kochi from Abu Dhabi or Sharjah or Dubai ( being Dubai and Sharjah are 2 hours drive from Abu Dhabi) ? Is there any time limit I should fly out ? do you need any visa to travel by road to Dubai or Sharjah ? My return ticket on 31st December COK to Abu Dhabi and Abu Dhabi to IAD is confirmed. Thank you for your great service.

Hi Kumar! US citizens are eligible for a visa on arrival at any port of entry in the UAE. Given the current and upcoming scenario in the wake of Omicron variant, please be advised to book your flight to India from Abu Dhabi itself where you will land from the US.

Hi Can you please let me know of travel bubble still exists, can I travel from Ireland to India via Dubai now or is there any restriction in place

Hi Navin! Ireland is classified as a country at risk. Traveling from Ireland, you are subjected to mandatory RT-PCR testing on arrival. If the report is negative, you will be directed to undergo home-quarantine for 7 days and additional testing on day 8.

Is there in chances to cancel flights to USA from Ahmedabad I January. I m about to fly so I want to make sure before I fly out. I book tickets to emirates. Plz let me know. I need to know

Hi Chandni! Given the volatile scenario of travel, nothing can be said certainly.

I will be travelling from hyd to dubai to seattle with a 20 hour layover in dubai. Do i have to get tested for covid again in dubai? if yes, is it pretty easy to do so, ie. finding the testing facility, and getting results within 20 hours? I am travelling on a US passport. Thanks for your help.

Hi Sapan! Please go through the Regulations for travelers from India if Dubai transit time is over 10 hours in https://www.indianeagle.com/travelbeats/air-india-vbm-air-bubble-flights-2020/ . In our knowledge, transit travelers from India are not required to take a test at Dubai Airport. Due to your 20-hour transit time/layover in Dubai, you need to take two tests before your departure from India.

I will be travelling to India from San Francisco on Dec 25th via dubai. I have a 27 hr layover in dubai and will be visiting dubai during this time. Do I need to get tested for covid again in dubai? How is easy is to find testing facilities in dubai and get results? Thanks for your help

In this new postponement of International flights by India up to 31st January, ’22, is it going to affect Eithad airways flying to India from US? Kindly let me know.

Hi Alkesh! What you got to know about international flights to India is the suspension of normal/regular international flights. Since March 2020, normal international civil flight operations have remained suspended. It has no impact on air bubble flights that the airlines are currently operating.

I’m flying from San Francisco via Dubai to Chennai. Is there any other document required apart from a Covid test 72 hours before departure?

Hi PV! Other than a negative RT-PCR test report, you must have a color printout of the self-declaration form that you are required to fill out on Air Suvidha within 72 hours prior to your travel from SFO. If you are fully vaccinated, make sure to upload the vaccine proof on Air Suvidha and carry the original document.

I am India citizen and having H1 Visa (My H1 visa is getting expired in July 23rd 2022). I am flying from SFO to Delhi via Dubai on 4th Feb and coming back on 26th Feb. I have below queries: 1. SFO to Delhi – Having 8.55 hrs layover, So do i need transit visa? 2. Delhi to SFO – Having 14hr layover, so do i need transit visa? 3. Do i need to get another RTPCR test at Dubai?

Thanks, Amit

Hi Amit! A Dubai transit visa or visa on arrival is not required unless the transit time/layover is 10 hours or more. As of today, no COVID-19 testing during transit in Dubai.

Hi, So during my back journey from Delhi to SFO has layover time more than 10 hrs, so i need transit visa? Also i heard if people are not coming in direct flights from USA to India, they are getting tested in Delhi airport and waiting for result. Is this the case?

Hi Amit! You need a pre-approved transit visa if the transit time is more than 10 hours in Dubai during travel from India to USA. You will have to take a test on arrival if you are found symptomatic in thermal screening or if you are among the 2% of the total passengers identified for random testing.

Are flights will be opn in January 1st week or any chances of lockdown?

Hi Sid! Currently international flights are open.

Hello and thank you for the wealth of information here.

I arrived from USA last week on Emirates and am scheduled to return on January 11th. But I am getting concerned whether the Emirates flight might get canceled (example: United and Delta airlines canceled domestic flights). I know we cannot predict what may happen in two weeks, but do you think the chances of Emirates canceling its flight are high (despite them operating in air bubble)? Should I get worried and buy an earlier return ticket?

Thank you for any advice you can provide.

I’m an Indian passport holder traveling back to India from the US (SFO) via Emirates with a transit time of 3 hours at Dubai airport. My passport is valid until 2027, but my H1B visa has expired. I’m hoping I do not have to apply for any kind of visa/approval in regards to transiting via Dubai on my journey onto my final destination in India considering my expired US visa. Kindly advise. Thank you for your help & advice!

Hi Mahendra! You can travel to India and transit via the UAE despite your US visa having been expired.

I have travel tomorrow from Orlando to Bangalore via Dubai. Do I have to give the rapid test or PCR test on landing in Bangalore

Hi Anurag! Fully-vaccinated travelers from the USA are not required to take a post-arrival test, except 2% of the arrivals for random testing. If you are identified among the 2%, your swab will be collected before you leave the airport.

Greetings!! I am planning to visit US in. February along with my wife.. Return journey will be in April. Which Air line is operating. Or Emirates operating Hyderabad to LA flights. If yes what will be the lowest/ best price for return ticket Hyderabad- LA- Hyderabad

Hi Vinod! We have the best deals available from our partner airlines for a round trip between India and the US. Please be advised to call our travel advisors at 01-800-615-3969 or write to us at [email protected] .

Hi, I have to travel US from HYD on 21st. Is RTPCR test enough or do we need to give rapid test as well ? Please help!

Hi Siva! Taking a regular RT-PCR test is enough. Wish you safe travel!

Hi, I am planning to travel from delhi to toronto via dubai on March 2022. I am an indian national.

option 1 – By emirates with 14hr layover. Q1) can i take pcr/rt pct test in transit area? Q2) how long it takes for the results Q3) if i need to go out of the transit area to do the test, do i need visa?

option 1 – Take flight1 from delhi to dubai & then light2 from dubai to toronto after say 15hrs or so. Q1) where can i take pcr/rt pct test in airport area? Q2) how long it takes for the results Q3) since my terminals wud change, i guess i need to go outside, do i need visa?

Hi Biren! Travelers from India, among the restricted countries, are required to leave Dubai Airport’ terminal if the transit time or layover is over 10 hours in Dubai. In this case, you can apply for Dubai Connect online at least 24 hours prior to your scheduled departure from India. A request for Dubai Connect is subject to the UAE immigration approval. If approved, you will get complimentary accommodation outside the airport, complimentary visa on arrival and free airport transfer service.

If denied, you will have to arrange accommodation outside the airport and must apply for a visa on arrival or have a pre-approved Dubai transit visa. In case you are unable to provide evidence of accommodation (hotel or a friend/relative’s residence in Dubai) outside Dubai Airport (DXB), you are likely to be denied boarding at the departure airport in India.

As per the UAE’s current regulations, travelers from India with the transit time/layover more than 10 hours at Dubai Airport must take a COVID-19 PCR test within 48 hours prior to scheduled departure from India and a (additional) Rapid PCR test at the departure airport within 6 hours of scheduled boarding. These two test reports must be negative and have a QR code.

Do we have to take both COVID-19 PCR test before departure within 48 hours and Rapid PCR test at departure airport within 6 hours ?

Can you please confirm ?, I thought only one of them would suffice.

Hi Niharikar! Is there transit time/layover 10 hours or more at Dubai Airport in your itinerary?

Yes, the layover time is more than 10 hours at Dubai airport, from your previous comments I got clarified that we have to take both tests and also is there an eligibility criteria for getting a transit visa and accommodation through Dubai Connect ? and if we are denied by Dubai Connect, I understood that we need to have our own accommodation with our own expenses but will we definitely be given a transit visa for leaving the airport for an accommodation, or is there any criteria for that ?

Hi Niharikar! You can check https://www.emirates.com/in/english/before-you-fly/visa-passport-information/ for information about the UAE visas.

Hi, I just called emirates and they confirmed that if the layover is less than 24 hours we need not leave the airport.

did the rules change recently , can you please confirm my query ?

thanks, Niharikar Komirelly

I am a UK resident, but travelling to the US for 7 days on February 17th and then plan to travel to Mumbai via Dubai connection (Emirates flight) on 25th February. does the UAE exemption apply? My fiance and I cannot do the 7 day quarantine. We know that flights from the UAE are exempt (from the 16th January ministry update).

Can you confirm if we need to still do the 7 day quarantine in Mumbai?

Hi Sagar! All international arrivals are subject to 7-day home quarantine and RT-PCR testing on day 8 in India, irrespective of their travel origin and itinerary.

hello there, I am USA Citizen and planning trip to India, but I want to spend few days in Dubai, what is best advice for me. I know there as been some rules changed regarding per testing. I also heard that I need insurance to enter dubai.

What is the best advice for me.

Hi AKB! If you travel to India after a few days in Dubai, you are required to take an RT-PCR test and upload the negative report on Air Suvidha before flying into India.

I am in H1B and dont have visa stamping can I travel USA to India Visa Dubai without stamped Visa

Hi Dilip! You can travel to India via Dubai without your H1B visa stamped.

I have a flight Delhi-SFO next week with a layover of 14 hours in Dubai. Do I need a transit visa ? What are the Covid Testing requirements? RT-PCR within 48 hours or Rapid test at the Delhi Airport will work ?

Hi Ashim! With the layover being more than 10 hours, you need to apply for a Dubai Connect at least 24 hours before your international flight from Delhi. If approved, you will get complimentary hotel accommodation, free airport transfer and a visa to enter the UAE. If not, you are eligible for a visa on arrival on condition of having a US visa or Green Card valid for minimum 6 months. You either need to take an RT-PCR test within 48 hours before your flight to Dubai or a medical certificate with a QR code if you recovered from COVID-19 within one month before your arrival in Dubai. The requirement for rapid RT-PCR testing within 6 hours at the departure airport has been scrapped.

I am travelling from Delhi to Orlando (US) via Emirates. For the COVID test, can I get a TruNat test or a normal RT-PCR is required?

Hi Rubal! You are required to take either an antigen or RT-PCR test.

Hi Greetings, My Son a USA citizen with X-1 India multiple entry visa issued in 2018 (5 year visa expires in 2023) will be traveling with us (GC holders) to India via Dubai in Emirates in April.

Does Emirate allow X-1 visa holders to board the flight since we find info only on OCI/PIO card holders? Please let us know as we don’t want to get denied boarding last minute.

Thanks, Devan

Hi Devanbu! Your son has a valid visa. Hence, he can travel on Emirates between USA and India.

Hi Greetings,

Need Advice:

I lost my Indian passport with a valid F1 visa 2 years ago. I applied for a new passport in Indian Embassy, Chicago, USA. Now I had a New Indian passport without any US Visa stamped on it. I am now planning to travel to India in the month of May 2022.

Will there be any problem traveling to India?? Does all the Airlines allows to travel?? Or should I travel through a specific airlines??

For example, can I travel From Chicago(ORD) to India(HYD) via Dubai ( Emirates Airlines). Since my New passport does not have any prior visa stamped in it. Does anyone who faced such situation and can you share your experience and suggestions about my situation.

Thanks. Sharath

Hi Sarath! In our knowledge, Indian passport holders having an expired US visa can travel to India via the Middle East. But your case is absolutely different. There is no prior visa stamp on your current passport. Please be advised to check the same with Emirates, and if possible, obtains a NOC from the embassy for hassle-free travel.

I’m travelling from Mumbai to the US via Dubai on Emirates. My flight departs Mumbai on Apr 15 at 19:20, arriving Dubai at 22:00. And onward departure from Dubai is on Apr 16, 02:20 to IAD (i.e. the following day but within 4 hours of my arrival in Dubai). To address the need for the RT-PCR test for the US, must I take a test on the 15th itself and get results back same day in India or can I test on the 14th?

Hi Aaren! As per the regulations, you can take the test any time on April 14, the day before your international flight from Mumbai.

Hi, We are traveling with our 8yr old kid, SFO->Dubai->Hyderabad with 40hours stopover in Dubai. According to UAE guidelines, kids less than 12yrs old do not need Covid test to enter Dubai. But according to Indian guidelines, they need negative Covid test to enter India.

My question is: Will the airlines allow our kid to board without Covid test at SFO (since we are stopping in Dubai), and then we can do the test in Dubai and satisfy the condition to travel Dubai->Hyderabad.

Hi Vijuki! In our knowledge, your son can travel from the US to Dubai without any test. However, be advised to get confirmation from the airline.

Are Indian Passport holders with a valid B1 B2 (tourist) USA Visa allowed to fly Emirates from Mumbai to Washington via Dubai with a less than 10 hours transit layover?

Also, the travel advisory requires a Negative RT PCR Report where the test is carried out less than 24 hours before flight departure. Most Laboratories in Mumbai stipulate a turnaround time of “within 24 hours” for Report to be made available. This may entail time constraints, especially if flight departure time is around midnight to say 0400 hours. Is a Rapid RT PCR Test Result acceptable?

Hi Zarir! Indian passport holders can travel on Emirates via Dubai. The layover/transit time is not an issue. As per the United States’ requirement, you should take an antigen or RT-PCR test any time the day before your international flight from Mumbai. Let’s assume your international flight from Mumbai is scheduled on March 26. You need to take the test any time on March 25. You can take a rapid antigen test.

I am an US citizen traveling back on 27Apr DEL-DXB-DFW with a 9 hour layover in Dubai. Can I go out of the airport and visit friends? I will have my RTPCR done on 26Apr as per USA entry requirements before India departure. Since my DXB-DFW flight departs on 28th early morning 2.30am from DXB, do I need to get PCR/Antigen testing done again in Dubai since I stepped out of the airport?

Hi Mehta! In our knowledge, additional testing is not required for stepping out of the airport during the layover in Dubai. However, be advised to check with the airline’s kiosk at Dubai Airport after your arrival there.

Thanks for your reply. My main worry is for the flight back to US – since it would be more than 1 day when lasted tested in India.

Hi there, We are traveling April 5th to Chennai in Emirates EWR-ATH-DXB-MAA. Do we need to have covid testing done 72hrs prior for my son who is 4.5 years old as he is not vaccinated yet? We both are fully vaccinated plus booster shot as well so assume we are fine with transit at Athens airport & Dubai airport. Please advise. Thanks.

Hi Rajkumar! India’s current guidelines exempt kids under 5 years of age from taking a pre-departure RT-PCR test. Your son does not require the test for transit via Dubai. We are not sure about the transit via Athens. Hence, be advised to check with the airline whether your son needs a negative RT-PCR test report for transit via Athens.

Hi Rajkumar, A quick question if you could answer. Do you need Athens / Greece transit visa for people on H1 (visa stamping)?

Hello We are senior citizens travelling to USA on 25th April 2022 by Emirates transiting through Dubai with layover of more than 10 hours and availing Dubai connect services. We are fully vaccinated. We are informed that we have to take RT PCR test one day before departure that is 24th April. However, the flight from Dubai to US will be on 26th early morning. Will the RT PCR test done in India on 24th April hold good?. We will be provided VISA in Dubai by Emirates for our stay in Hotel since layover is more than 10 hours under Dubai connect.

Hello Hemchand ji! If your flights (India to Dubai and Dubai to USA) are ticketed together under the same PNR, your report of the RT-CPR test taken in India on April 24 is valid for the connecting flight from Dubai to USA. No additional test is required.

I am an Indian national, I want to travel from USA to India on May 23rd and my itinerary is as follows: Newark (EWR) to Dubai via United Airlines with a layover in Zurich Dubai to Pune (PNQ) via Spicejet

Will I face any issues due to the covid air bubbles? I read on Indian Civil Aviation website that “only passengers originating from UAE or any country in South America or Africa should be allowed to travel on flights from UAE to India.”

I also read that people traveling from USA to India can transit via Dubai only if they are flying with Emirates.

Can you please confirm if I am able to fly?

Hi Jaanvi! You can travel. There are no such restrictions any more, as air bubble travel regulations have been eliminated with effect from March 27, 2022.

I will be travelling to Dallas from Mumbai via Dubai and my transit time in Dubai is 5 hours. I won’t be going out of Dubai airport. I am Indian passport holder and having valid US visa. Do I need transit visa at Dubai

Hi Sunil! You don’t need a transit visa for Dubai since the layover is under 10 hours.

Hi, I will be traveling this month end to USA from New Delhi. Can i carry my keyboard Casio CS300 with me?

Hi Suraj! The airline can better address your query.

I am scheduled to travel from Kolkata (India) to New York (US) via Dubai on May 1, 2022

I understand that all international travelers to the US are required to carry a negative RTPCR test, not older than 1 day before the date of travel.

My flight from Kolkata to Dubai will fly on May 1, 2022, and the flight from Dubai to New York will fly on May 2, 2022.

The layover in Dubai is around 3 hours.

1) Is it okay if I get an RTPCR test done on April 30, 2022, i.e., one day before the first leg of the itinerary?

2) Can the test be performed at any time on April 30, 2022? Or should it be within a 24-hour window prior to the departure from Kolkata?

Would be great if you could help with the above questions. Thanks!

Hi Ramesh! You can take the test any time on April 30, 2022.

I am Indian citizen traveling to Costa Rica. My flight Transit through Dubai and USA. My question is i know with US b1/b2 visa I can transit through USA but with Indian passport and USA b1/b2 visa, can I transit though Dubai? Or if i need to apply any kind of visa??

Hi Sakir! You can transit through Dubai as you have a valid US B1/B2 visa.

Hi, I am returning back to US in Emirates this weekend. Do we need to fill online attestation form? Received a notification from Emirates that I will be receiving online attestation form, which will be available 48 hours before departure but i haven’t received any email with the link for form and my US phone/text doesn’t work. Is there a way to complete this attestation form at Airport in India? Please let me know.

Thanks, Ravi

Hi Ravikumar! Below is the link to the United States’ attestation form. This form is the same for everyone, irrespective of the airline you choose to travel on. https://www.airindia.in/images/pdf/Attachment-A-Fillable-Attestation-English-p.pdf

Thanks! I was able to scan the QR code that was provided during check-in at the airport to fill in the form which was easier. They don’t accept printed attestation form.

My mom is going to travel back from USA to India via emirates MCO-DXB-DEL with 3 hours layover in Dubai. Does she require any RT-PCR test to be done in USA or in Dubai?

Hi Anjali! If she is fully-vaccinated, she needs not take an RT-PCR test in the US or Dubai. All she needs to do is upload a copy of her vaccine card/certificate on Air Suvidha and fill out a self-declaration form on Air Suvidha within 72 hours before her journey from the US.

Thank you so much!

Hi Indianeagle,

I am travelling with my wife and daughter from SFO to MAA on 3rd June, I already uploaded copy of my vaccination certificate on Air Suvidha and got the acknowledgement. 1) Is this too early and do I need to do it within 72 hours before departure? 2) I used one form and added my wife and daughter as co-passengers on the Air Suvidha form, is that ok?

Hi Senthil! Since three of you will be traveling together with the same PNR, it is ok to add them as co-travelers in the self-declaration form. As per the norm, you should fill out and submit the self-declaration form within 72 hours before traveling from SFO.

thanks a lot, appreciate the quick response

Wish you a very happy and safe trip!

We are US citizens (not of Indian decent) traveling from US to Dubai and want to spend 3-4 days in Dubai before flying to India. Flight from US to Dubai is Emirates and then we take another flight from Dubai to India. Also, on way back we are flying Indigo from India to Dubai and staying overnight before flying back to the US.

Hi Anju! What you posted in comment is your itinerary. May we know your query? What information are you looking for?

hi I want to travel from dallas to mumbai using emirates on sep 2022 and return oct 2022. Can i travel with expired usa visa in my passport, how will i change terminal for connecting flight in dubai for mumbai? Do we need any transit visa for this?

Hi Ram! In our knowledge, you can travel on Emirates and via Dubai with an expired visa. However, be advised to check the same with the airline for your satisfaction. Transit visa is not required.

I will recently travelling from Delhi to IAD transit in Dubai(transit time – 3hrs)

Please advise 1. whether negative RTPCR test is needed ? and what should be its validity. 2. Any self declaring form that needs to be submitted ?

Hi Rahul! You must be fully vaccinated and have valid vaccination proof. Or else, you won’t be able to travel to the US. A negative RT-PCR test report is not mandatory. You must have taken the final dose at least 14 days before your planned departure from India. You need to duly fill in and sign a passenger disclosure and attestation form that you will get from the airline. Kindly note Sputnik is not approved by the US.

Appreciate the information you provide us here!

I am planning to travel from India to USA with a stopover of 3 days (< 96 hours) in Dubai – tickets could be together or different. In either case, do I need to apply for a Transit Visa or am I eligible for a Visa on Arrival (I hold an US H1B Visa, if that matters)?

Also, does Emirates help me with the Transit Visa if I book an onward ticket from India to Dubai via Emirates and book the remaining leg from Dubai to USA via some other airlines?

Thanks for your help!

HI Srinivas! Only U visitor visa and Green card holders are eligible for a visa on arrival in the UAE. You need to apply in advance for a transit visa for 48 to 96 hours of stopover in Dubai/UAE. You must have a confirmed flight ticket for onward travel and a valid hotel booking for the duration of your stay/stopover in Dubai/UAE. We have best deals from Emirates and other airlines for your travel from India to USA via Dubai. Kindly log on to IndianEagle.com or call our customer helpline 001-800-615-3969.

Hi , My mom is going to travel back from USA to India via emirates to Hyderabad with 3 hours layover in Dubai. Does she require any RT-PCR test to be done in USA or in Dubai?

Hi Lily! If your mom is fully vaccinated (with the second dose of the two-dose vaccine at least 15 days before her departure from the US), she does not need to take an RT-PCR test in the US or Dubai. She should provide details of her vaccination in the Air Suvidha form and carry the vaccination card/certificate while traveling.

Thank you very Helpful information

You’re welcome. Wish a safe trip to your mother!

Is it easy for parents to do Dubai connect?

Hi Siddharth! Yes it is. First, you should check whether their itinerary is eligible for Dubai Connect.

Hi Everyone,

My friend has a return travel with Emirates next week, from Delhi to Los Angeles, USA. After a vacation of two months. She is traveling with a family member. There is a layover in Dubai, so where will be the port of entry / immigration for them ? Any helpful thoughts?

Hi Davis! Dubai is the transit layover in their itinerary, and Los Angeles Airport is the port of entry where they will undergo immigration checks.

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UAE airlines update travel requirements after latest relaxation of COVID-19 restrictions

Move follows UAE's decision to scrap PCR test requirements for fully vaccinated passengers

Dubai: UAE’s airlines have updated their travel requirements after authorities announced the relaxation of COVID-19 travel restrictions.

Emirates airline said effective February 26, 2022, passengers travelling to Dubai from all countries (GCC included) must fulfil one of the below requirements:

✈ Present a valid vaccination certificate(s) reflecting that the passenger is fully vaccinated with a vaccine approved by the WHO or the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and includes a QR code system; or

✈ Present a valid negative COVID-19 test certificate that should be based on a molecular diagnostic test intended for the qualitative detection of nucleic acid for SARS COV 2 viral RNA, that is issued within 48 hours from the time of sample collection and issued by an approved health service provider, with a QR code system; or

✈ Present a valid medical certificate issued by the relevant authorities that the passenger has recovered from Coronavirus SARS Cov 19 within a period of one month from the date of recovery to the date of arrival, with a QR code system

✈ If requested, passengers must undergo a PCR test on arrival in Dubai and self quarantine until they receive a negative result. In the event the passenger tests positive, then they should follow the guidelines issued by the relevant Health Authority in the Emirate of Dubai.

Transiting passengers

Transiting passengers are not required to present a COVID-19 PCR test certificate unless it is mandated by their final destination. Passengers booked with Dubai Connect/Stopover packages must follow the same PCR test requirements as applicable for passengers arriving/entering Dubai.

• COVID-19: UAE residents welcome scrapping of PCR test for vaccinated arrivals
• COVID-19: UAE scraps PCR test requirement for fully vaccinated passengers coming to the country
• India-Dubai travel: UAE residents no longer require GDRFA or ICA approval, says Air India
• COVID-19: Dubai ends PCR test requirement for vaccinated; masks not mandatory in open spaces

Following categories of passengers are exempted from PCR test requirements:

UAE nationals are exempt from taking a COVID-19 PCR test before departing for Dubai. They must be tested on arrival in Dubai, irrespective if they are holding a valid negative COVID-19 RT PCR certificate from the point of origin. This is also applicable for passengers accompanying a 1st degree UAE nationals’ relative or domestic worker escorting a UAE national sponsor during travel.

Children under the age of 12 and passengers who have a moderate or severe disability are exempt from taking a COVID-19 RT PCR test.

Abu Dhabi rules

On its website, Etihad Airways said passengers don’t need a test to fly to Abu Dhabi if they are fully vaccinated or hold a COVID-19 recovery certificate with a QR code dated within 30 days of departure; guests under the age of 16 need not get tested.

Passengers must take a PCR test 48 hours before flight to Abu Dhabi if they are not fully vaccinated and do not hold a COVID-19 recovery certificate; or they are transiting in Abu Dhabi and a test is required at the final destination.

"We warmly welcome this move by the UAE authorities to make travelling to and from Abu Dhabi and the UAE even easier, while maintaining a safe environment," said Terry Daly, Executive Director Guest Experience, Brand and Marketing, Etihad Airways.

"Abu Dhabi has built a reputation for delivering a robust response to the pandemic with high vaccination rates and a comprehensive approach to health and safety measures," said Daly.

PCR test result must contain a QR code if the travelers are arriving from: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Botswana, Congo, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Ghana, India, Kenya, Lesotho, Liberia, Mozambique, Nepal, Nigeria, Pakistan, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Uganda, Vietnam, Zambia, Zimbabwe

“If you do require a PCR test and you are unable to present proof of your negative COVID-19 PCR test, you will not be permitted to travel,” said Etihad.

The National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority (NCEMA), in coordination with its main partners, has announced updating the COVID-19 countermeasures from Saturday (February 26).

The announcement came 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 update, 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.

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Travelling To India From UAE? Must Check These Guidelines

• Travel Advisory

Are you planning to travel between the UAE and India? Well, if it is a yes, then you may be unsure of all the rules and regulations you need to follow –

• How many days prior to your travel should you take a PCR test?
• Do you need to take an advance test at all?
• Will you be asked to go into institutional quarantine in India or can you quarantine at home?

Here is all you need to know about travelling to and from India.

There are some basic considerations you need to keep in mind.

1. How soon should you get a PCR test before you travel?

2. What are the institutional quarantine requirements for passengers arriving in India?

3. What are the requirements of the airline that you are choosing to travel from?

The following guidelines have been provided by UAE-based airlines Emirates, Etihad, FlyDubai and Air Arabia for routes to India.

Travelling from India to UAE

Who is allowed to travel.

According to Emirates Airlines, flights from India to Dubai will be limited only to the following passengers:

• UAE nationals
• ICA/GDRFA approved UAE residents; and
• Any Indian national or national of Nepal or Bhutan destined for UAE or any country in South America or Africa only and holding a valid visa of the destination country.
• Most airlines offer relief for the test requirement for children under the age of 12 and people of determination. However, it is always advisable to check with your airlines before taking the tests.

Where possible, the result must be issued by a Pure Health approved medical facility. You will find your closest approved medical facility at purehealth.ae. Children under 12 and people with severe and moderate disabilities are exempt from COVID-19 PCR testing.

If there are no approved Pure Health facilities close to you, you may arrange a COVID-19 PCR test from an ICMR testing facility. No other clinics will be accepted.

Online check-in

Etihad also advises passengers flying in from India to the UAE to check in online.

If you are a UAE resident flying to Abu Dhabi, visit uaeentry.ica.gov.ae

Travelling to India from UAE

Important update:  Effective from December 23, 2021, until January 7, 2021, passengers originating in or transiting through the United Kingdom will not be permitted to enter India.

Travel to India is restricted to specified categories of passengers. You might also be required to take a COVID 19 PCR test before departure and undergo quarantine on arrival. Please check the requirements of your final destination before you travel.

Who can travel?

According to  Emirates Airlines , flights to India will be limited to the following passengers:

• Indian Nationals or nationals of Nepal or Bhutan stranded in UAE or in any country in South America or Africa;
• All Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders and person of Indian origin (PIO) cardholders holding passports of any country; and
• UAE nationals and foreign nationals (from any country in South America or Africa only) intending to visit India for any purpose (including their dependents on appropriate category of dependent visa) except those on Tourist visa.

According to  Etihad Airways , flights to India are limited to the following travellers only:

• Indian nationals stranded abroad.
• All Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) cardholders.
• UAE nationals (including diplomats) with a valid visa issued by an Indian Mission in any category covered under Ministry of Home Affairs (MOHA) guidelines dated June 30, 2020.

flydubai  provides a list of the following categories of travellers who are currently permitted to travel from the UAE to India, updated on December 31, 2020:

• Citizens and residents of India
• UAE nationals (including diplomats) with a valid visa issued by an Indian Mission in any tegory covered under Ministry of Home Affairs (MOHA) guidelines dated June 30, 2020.
• Citizens of Nepal and Bhutan
• Passengers with an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card or booklet
• Passengers with a Persons of Indian Origin (PIO) card
• Students/Minors if one of the parents is an Indian citizen or OCI card holder
• Spouses of Indian citizens
• Single parents of a minor who is an Indian citizen or OCI card holder
• Passengers returning from a neighboring country via India to their country of residence
• Passengers with diplomatic, official, UN/International Organisations or project visas
• Passengers with a non-Tourist visa issued from India
• Passengers with a visa or an e-visa issued after June 30, 2020 by India.
• Passengers are not allowed to transit Delhi (DEL).
• Visas and e-visas issued before June 30, 2020 are invalidated except for Diplomatic, official, UN/International Organizations or project visas/all category of Employment visas; airline crew; Business visa (excluding B-3 visa for sports).
• Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) staff
• Foreign diplomats and their family members
• Foreign citizens holding medical visas issued by the Embassy of India in their country of origin
• Citizens of Afghanistan, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Canada, Iraq, Japan, Kenya, Maldives, Nigeria, Oman, Qatar, USA, Ukraine and United Arab Emirates with an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card or booklet arriving from their country of nationality
• Citizens of United Kingdom with an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card or booklet arriving from the United Kingdom
• Passengers with an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card or booklet whose journey originated from the United Kingdom
• Passengers with an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card or booklet arriving from Ethiopia, France, Germany, Netherlands, Rwanda or Tanzania

According to  Air Arabia , the following passengers are allowed to travel to India:

• Indian nationals
• Nepal and Bhutan nationals
• Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) and PIO cardholders
• Foreign nationals (including dependents) on any visa except on Tourist visa.

Steps to follow

1. Fill out the self-reporting or self-declaration form  – All passengers must fill the self-reporting form on the website of the airport they are travelling to, at least 72 hours before the scheduled departure. Passengers will receive an approval code that must be presented at the time of departure.

2. Check airport requirements  – Find out the specific requirements based on the Indian state you are landing in, as well as the airport’s requirements. After restrictions were implemented recently, following the emergence of a new coronavirus strain, each Indian state has put in place specific requirements for institutional quarantine, who can exempt themselves from it and whether passengers will be able to take connecting flights within the country to other national airports. These guidelines are regularly updated and it is advisable to check the airport’s website to get the latest requirements before you book your ticket.

3. Conduct a COVID-19 test before you travel  – Some international airports in India do not have a mandatory requirement for a pre-travel COVID-19 negative test result. However, it may help you in getting an exemption from institutional quarantine, in some states. A state-wise breakdown of travel requirements is available below.

4. Keep printed copies  – It is always advisable to keep printed hard copies of your negative COVID-19 PCR test, any self-declaration forms or special request forms you may have filled in. Some airports may not accept digital copies like those on your mobile phone.

5. Quarantine guidelines  – Each state has specific regulations for quarantine requirements – whether at home or a state institution – quarantine exemption rules and eligibility.

What are the requirements across India?

The guidelines shared by Emirates Airlines on its website, updated on January 5, 2021, provide the following state-wise breakdown of travel requirements for passengers from the UAE.

Ahmedabad (AMD)

Passengers with final destination in Gujarat only will be accepted.

COVID 19 testing requirements

Passengers must carry printed copy of negative COVID 19 RT PCR certificate for test conducted within 96 hours of departure. This excludes children below 10 years of age.

Quarantine guidelines

All asymptomatic passengers will undergo a mandatory 14-day home quarantine.

Bengaluru (BLR)

All passengers travelling to Bengaluru (BLR) must download the Aarogya setu app, Quarantine Watch app and Apthamitra app on their mobile devices.

Passengers should carry printed copy of negative COVID 19 RT-PCR certificate for a test conducted within 72 hours of departure. Passengers without this certificate will also have an option to undergo this test upon arrival at their own cost. This excludes children below 10 years of age.

Quarantine exemptions

Business/short term travellers to Bengaluru with a negative COVID 19 RT-PCR test report are exempted from quarantine. Such passengers must submit a declaration of authenticity of the test report and will be liable for criminal prosecution if found otherwise. The test report must be presented upon arrival at BLR Airport.

Students taking exams in Karnataka will be exempted from home quarantine if they undergo Rapid Antigen testing with a negative result or if they submit a negative COVID 19 RT-PCR test report for a test conducted within 72 hours of departure.

Chennai (MAA)

All passengers must ensure TN e pass (Tamil Nadu government’s online registration portal for travellers) is applied and details are ready to be shown to state health authorities. You can register for the pass  here .

You may need to contact your airline to update the details on the TN e-pass 48 hours before departure.

All passenger who are cleared by state health officials are permitted to use any mode to travel home including on domestic flights.

Transit passengers who are travelling to other states have to apply for a fresh e pass on arrival and follow the other state’s process when connecting on to a domestic flight. Transfer facility of passengers and baggage is currently not available.

Passengers must carry a printed copy of a negative COVID 19 RT-PCR certificate for the test conducted within 96 hours prior to their arrival. This excludes infants below six months of age.

Delhi (DEL)

It is not mandatory to take COVID-19 PCR test before departure. However, it would be necessary if you want to request for an exemption from institutional quarantine.

All passengers must submit an undertaking form on the online portal – www.newdelhiairport.in – agreeing to undergo a mandatory seven-day paid institutional quarantine at their own cost, followed by a seven-day isolation at home with self-monitoring of health.

Passengers may request exemption from institutional quarantine by submitting a negative COVID-19 RT-PCR test report on arrival. This test should have been conducted within 72 hours of the start of their journey. The test report should be uploaded for exemption under  Air Suvidha on the online portal  for consideration. Each passenger must also submit a declaration with respect to authenticity of the report and will be liable for criminal prosecution if found otherwise. The test report could also be presented upon arrival at the point of entry airport in India.

Hyderabad (HYD)

COVID-19 testing requirements

It is not mandatory to take COVID-19 PCR test before departure

All passengers must submit an undertaking form on the online portal agreeing to undergo a mandatory seven-day paid institutional quarantine at their own cost, followed by a seven-day isolation at home with self-monitoring of health.

Passengers travelling to Hyderabad for business reasons and having a negative COVID 19 RT-PCR test conducted less than 72 hours prior to departure shall be exempted from the requirement of home or institutional quarantine. However, the passengers should return within four days of arrival as evidenced by confirmed return tickets.

Passengers may request exemption from institutional quarantine by submitting a negative COVID 19 RT PCR test report on arrival. This test should have been conducted within 72 hours of the start of their journey. The test report should be uploaded for exemption under Air Suvidha on the online portal for consideration. Each passenger must also submit a declaration with respect to the authenticity of the report and will be liable for criminal prosecution if found otherwise. The test report could also be presented upon arrival at the point of entry airport in India.

Kerala (COK/TRV)

All passengers travelling to Kerala must also update their details  online  at least two days before departure.

It is not mandatory to take COVID 19 PCR test before departure.

Quarantine Exemptions

Passengers travelling to Kerala may undergo COVID 19 RT PCR test on the seventh day of arrival and if they test negative, further quarantine of seven days is optional.

Kolkata (CCU)

Passengers must carry a printed hard copy of the negative COVID 19 RT-PCR certificate for a test conducted within 72 hours of departure. Children under the age of three years are exempted.

Passengers must upload negative COVID 19 RT-PCR test result on the Air Suvidha portal up to four hours prior to the flight departure.

Mumbai (BOM)

It is not mandatory to take a COVID 19 PCR test before departure. However, having a negative test result may help you if you are going to take a connecting flight within India.

All passengers must submit an undertaking form on the Air Suvidha online portal, agreeing to undergo mandatory seven-day paid institutional quarantine at their own cost, followed by seven days’ isolation at home with self monitoring of health. On arrival, no COVID 19 RT PCR test will be conducted. However, COVID-19 RT PCR test will be conducted during the fifth to seventh day at the hotel and all related costs are to be borne by the passenger.

All passengers travelling to Mumbai (BOM) and connecting on a domestic flight to a destination out of Maharashtra will be exempt from the above requirement, provided they have negative COVID-19 RT-PCR test conducted within 72 hours of boarding the flight. The passenger may also choose to undergo the COVID-19 RT-PCR test at the airport itself, however only after the negative results are received the passenger will be allowed to proceed for the domestic flight.

Passengers under the following exceptional circumstances would be considered for exemption of the seven-day mandatory institutional quarantine. Decision would be taken after arrival on verification of following reasons with proof of documents.

• Pregnant woman in advanced stage of pregnancy
• Death in immediate family.
• General Quarantine Exemptions for all airports except Mumbai (BOM)

Home quarantine of 14 days may be allowed only for compelling reasons or cases of human distress such as pregnancy, death in the family, serious illness and parent(s) with children 10 years old and younger. Passengers must apply for exemption under Air Suvidha on the online portal at least 72 hours before boarding.

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Travel advice for Dubai residents

Find out the process for returning to Dubai, whether you’re already overseas or you plan to fly from Dubai and return. 

Tourists travelling to, from, and through Dubai

Follow the process to make sure you have everything you need before you travel to, from, or connect through Dubai.

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Experience the world as part of your career, who we are looking for.

To be considered for Emirates cabin crew you’ll need to be:

• Fluent in written and spoken English (additional languages are an advantage)
• A natural team player with a personality that shines
• At least 160cm tall and able to reach 212cm high
• Able to meet the UAE’s employment visa requirements
• At least 21 years old
• At least 1 year of hospitality or customer service experience
• A minimum of high school (Grade 12) education
• No visible tattoos while in Emirates cabin crew uniform

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We’re travelling around the world to find the best candidates for our cabin crew team. Don’t see your city? Apply online and we’ll inform you when we are visiting nearby.

Walk into any of our Open Days happening all over the world. You don’t have to submit your application before you attend. Candidates are advised to read the requirements and arrive at the Open Day venue by the start time to register.

Candidates are required to complete an application online to be selected for our invitation-only recruitment events.

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