Travel
guidelines
and regulations
To make sure you stay protected when you travel, it’s really important that you read these guidelines before you fly. Remember to check the regulations at both your departure and arrival destination.
From 24 December, Abu Dhabi will reopen to tourists – and we can’t wait to welcome you back! You’ll be exempt from quarantine if you’re travelling from select countries. Always check in advance.
New global travel restrictions are currently impacting travel to and from the UK. If you’re travelling to and from the UK, you must have a COVID-19 PCR test 72 hours before your flight. Check guidelines below for more details
COVID-19 PCR testing is mandatory before every flight to give you the confidence to travel the world again.
Depending on where you are flying to, your test must be carried out between 48, 72 or 96 hours ahead of your flight departure time. Please make sure your test result is in the language mandated by the government of your destination country.
If you're flying with Etihad Airways between 1 October 2020 and 31 March 2021, COVID-19 PCR testing is included with all flights from Abu Dhabi. This excludes flights to China where you will be required to arrange a COVID-19 PCR test at an approved G42 clinic.
Visit any Life Dx authorized sample collection facility in the UAE, or arrange for your sample to be collected from home. Book at lifedx.net/etihad, call +971 600 551 636 or email passengers@lifedx.net.
Children under 12 and people with severe and moderate disabilities are exempt from COVID-19 PCR testing, though this is subject to the regulations at your destination.
Remember to print your test result as you will be required to present it for validation at check-in. You must present a medical certificate or other relevant document, clearly stating the type of test and the result.
You may also present your test result via the Al Hosn app if you are flying to Abu Dhabi.
If your test is positive or you are unable to present proof of your negative COVID-19 PCR test, you will not be permitted to travel. You can rearrange your flight for free, or cancel and use the value of your flight towards your next trip with Etihad Credit. Read more
COVID-19 global wellness insurance cover is included with every Etihad Airways ticket up to 31 March 2021 – just one of the ways we promise to keep you protected with Etihad Wellness.
Our COVID-19 global wellness insurance cover is an extension to your travel insurance, giving you extra peace of mind as you travel the world. If you’re diagnosed with COVID-19 whilst you’re away, we’ll take care of your medical expenses and quarantine costs.
For extra peace of mind and protection, we always recommend you purchase travel insurance before you fly.
Travel with confidence
Book your flight at etihad.com. If you are a UAE resident, you no longer require ICA approval to return to Abu Dhabi.
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Your COVID-19 PCR test must be carried out a maximum of 96 hours before your flight departure time.
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When you receive your negative COVID-19 PCR test, you’re fit to fly.
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Always check global travel regulations before you fly.
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Find out about the steps we’re taking to make sure you feel safe and well when you travel with Etihad Wellness.
Read our wellness guide
Travel smarter and save on flights worldwidewith Etihad TravelPass.
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Book now for freedom to change your travel plans if you need to. Start exploring
