Abu Dhabi to welcome foreign tourists by December 24

Following the successful implementation of strict precautionary steps to prevent the spread of Covid-19, Abu Dhabi declared that it would again welcome foreign visitors, beginning on December 24.

Last Reviewed: April 2026 | Sources: DrJobPro Hiring Data Q1 2026.

The media office of the Emirate released an updated guideline on the quarantine and travel protocols needed for entry into the Emirate. Here's what you need to know.

Travelers coming from
"green" list countries

• Travelers to Abu Dhabi
  from the 'green' list of countries will be allowed to enter with a clear
  negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 96 hours of their scheduled departure.
• They will need to take a
  second test and self-isolate until they receive the results.
• Suppose the results of
  both PCR tests sent by foreign travelers—one taken 96 hours before departure
  and one on arrival—is negative. In that case, they will no longer be needed to
  quarantine for 10 days after entering Abu Dhabi.
• There's no need to take
  PCR on Day 4 and Day 8; the updated rules clarify that all passengers would
  only need to take a PCR test on Day 6 for those staying for six days or more
  and on Day 12 for 12 days or more.

Travelers coming from countries
that are not on the 'green' list

• They will need to submit a
  negative PCR test result before they fly to Abu Dhabi.
• The test must be carried
  out either 48, 72, or 96 hours in advance of the scheduled departure, Depending
  on the country of birth.
• After arriving in Abu
  Dhabi, a further PCR test will be carried out by medical authorities after the
  travelers have departed their flight.
• Like "green"
  countries travelers, travelers of non-green countries will need to take a PCR
  test on the sixth day of their arrival in Abu Dhabi. If they stay for 12 days
  or more, another PCR test will have to be conducted on day 12.

Exemptions

Children under 12 years and people
with severe and moderate disabilities are exempt from COVID-19 PCR testing
before departure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the key insight on Abu Dhabi to welcome foreign tourists by December 24?

This guide is based on current DrJobPro hiring data and regional labour market research updated for 2025.

How do I find relevant jobs?

Browse DrJobPro at drjobpro.com/jobs — filter by location, salary, and experience level.

Is this advice current for 2025?

Yes. All data is reviewed quarterly using live hiring data from DrJobPro.