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.
You need to have a COVID-19 PCR test before you fly to Abu Dhabi, even if you are just transiting. For most destinations, your test must be carried out 48 or 72 hours before your flight, though this will depend on your final destination.
Read more about transiting in Abu Dhabi
COVID-19 PCR testing is mandatory before every flight to give you the confidence to travel the world again.
For most destinations, your test must be carried out 48 or 72 hours ahead of your flight departure time. This will depend on where you are flying to and from, so you should always check in advance at etihad.com/destinationguide. 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.
Find a clinic
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
You must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test result before every Etihad Airways flight. For most destinations, your test must be carried out 48 or 72 hours ahead of your flight departure time. This will depend on where you’re flying to or from and your transit time.
You can read more at etihad.com/destinationguide. Always remember to check the requirements at both your departure and arrival city by selecting the ‘Flying to’ and ‘Flying from’ tabs.
You can take your COVID-19 PCR test at any accredited medical facility.
If you are travelling to China, you must take your test at one of these G42 clinics listed below. Tests from other medical facilities will not be accepted:
*Home testing is available with these clinics
No, you will not be required to quarantine if you’re travelling straight to Dubai. You are permitted to travel to Dubai or any northern emirate by Etihad Chauffeur, Etihad Coach or Airport Taxi only.
Yes! You can pay to reserve your seat from the moment you book you ticket, or you can select your seat when you check-in online.
We’ll always do our best to make sure that you are seated with your family. The best way to guarantee the seats you’d like is to book them in advance.
Read more about our seat choices
You’ll always find the most up to date travel information – including testing and quarantine requirements – at etihad.com/destinationguide.
Use the ‘Flying to’ and ‘Flying from’ tabs to check the regulations at both your city of departure and arrival.
Yes! We’re proud to be the first airline in the world to vaccinate all pilots and cabin crew on board against COVID-19. It’s just one of the ways we’re keeping you protected with Etihad Wellness.
Etihad Wellness
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