In case you’re tired of traveling and looking for a way to avoid quarantine, there are plenty of options. Worldwide, travel is reopening, and UAE residents can visit a number of gorgeous holiday destinations. From beaches to history and parties, there are destinations to suit every traveler. And, we’ve hand-picked ten stunning places, which are just under 7 hours from the UAE. However, do note that rules change over time. Be sure to check for the updated rules before booking your tickets.
Maldives
All UAE travelers will be given a 30-day tourist visa-free of charge upon arrival. No merest stay will be required, but all travelers must have confirmed accommodation before arriving at the Maldives.
The Maldives requires travelers arriving at Male International Airport to present a negative PCR test result. The Covid Test must be taken 96 hours before departure. Travelers who have transited for more than 24 hours must repeat the test. The certificate must have the passenger’s name as in the passport and the name and address of the examination laboratory. The initial COVID‑19 PCR test for transit/transfer passengers is valid, provided their transit time is not more than 24 hours.
Upon arrival, travelers need not undergo quarantine measures. Unique visa holders whose stay in the Maldives will exceed seven days must quarantine for 14 days in their place of residence or work. Foreign diplomats and their accompanying family members, Maldivians, and work visa holders must quarantine for 14 days in their home or work area.
All other travelers who have received the second dose of a COVID‑19 vaccine at least 14 days before arrival are exempt from the home quarantine requirement. Travelers should download the contact tracing app TraceEkee to allow authorities to trace any possible spread of the virus.
Bulgaria
The flight to this stunning destination from Dubai takes around five hours and a half. Unvaccinated travelers must carry a copy of a negative Covid-19 test result taken no more than 72 hours before arrival. Vaccinated travelers must have received their second jab at least 14 days before traveling. Those with proof of recovering from Covid-19 no more than six months ago can also fly to Bulgaria. The Sinopharm vaccine is also accepted. Fly Dubai has flights starting from AED 2,898.
Egypt
Egypt is now welcoming international tourists from around the world. It was announced that passengers older than six years must produce a negative PCR test to prove they are not infected with Coronavirus. Upon arrival in the country, the test must be conducted within 72 hours. If you fly directly to Hurghada, Marsa Alam, Sharm El Sheikh, or Taba, you can take the PCR test upon arrival. You will have to quarantine in your hotel room until you receive negative results, which will cost you $30.
Greece
Greece has reopened its borders to all international tourists, including UAE residents. Travelers must adhere to a few rules, however. Before landing in Greece, all tourists must complete the passenger locator form (PLF). Additionally, travelers must submit a negative PCR test report taken 24 hours before departure. However, those who have a vaccination certificate completed at least 14 days before their arrival in Greece do not have to take a PCR test.
Kenya
On August 1, Kenya began welcoming tourists from 129 countries for quarantine-free stays. Tourists visiting the African nation must fill out this health surveillance form and take a negative PRC test within 96 hours of travel. To fly within the national parks, no additional PCR tests or documents are necessary.
Lebanon
The city of Beirut is still reeling from the massive explosion, but it is open to tourists. Spending a few pounds is the best way to help the country! In order to travel to Lebanon, passengers must fill out a health declaration form and provide proof of a negative Covid-19 test within 96 hours of departure. Upon arrival at the airport, passengers must also undergo PCR tests. All passengers must have valid health insurance, which can be purchased when they arrive at Rafik Hariri International Airport.
Italy
With a negative PCR test taken no longer than 48 hours before travel, vaccinated UAE residents can enter Italy. Those who have traveled via Bangladesh, Brazil, India, or Sri Lanka in the past 14 days will not be permitted to enter Italy.
Before arrival, all passengers must complete the following declaration forms. The EU Digital Passenger Locator Form must be filled to enter the Italian territory. Passengers must be able to present the form as a printout or in digital format on their device. A QR code will be issued when the form is submitted, and this must be presented at the time of check-in.
All passengers arriving in Italy must undergo a Rapid Antigen Swab Test at their own expense. Under 2-year-olds are exempt. The test costs €20 ($25) euros and must be pre-booked online.
Seychelles
Travelers heading to Seychelles must provide a negative PCR test before departure. The rule also applies to children and infants. The test must be taken 72 hours before your date of travel and should be submitted electronically before boarding your flight. In addition, all travelers must have valid health insurance that covers any Covid-19-associated medical care.
Accommodations on the island can only be booked in resorts that are certified safe by the public health authority. It includes more than 200 hotels, resorts, villas, and apartments and is constantly updated. So, there’s a little something for every kind of traveler. Seychelles boasts pristine oceans perfect for snorkeling and diving. Besides, the island is also home to many stunning golf courses, fishing trips, and beaches.
Serbia
If you want to escape UAE’s summer, Belgrade is the best bet. Etihad airlines resume three flights per week to Belgrade from Sunday, August 16. You can reach the stunning winter spot five and half hours from Abu Dhabi. Besides, travelers don’t need a Covid negative certificate, and there are no quarantine rules upon arrival. However, strict rules must be followed when in the country.
Face masks are mandatory in public spaces and bars, and restaurants. Besides, the city’s brimming nightlife is not back yet, so that might not be a brownie point on your trip here. Temperature is pleasant in the mornings and gets more fabulous in the evenings. Travelers can soak in the city’s rich history and also binge on the delicious gastronomy. Don’t miss Belgrade’s Ada Ciganlija when here. A small peninsula on the Save River is ideal for spending hot, humid summers.
Lastly, if you want to escape the city vibes, head to Avala Mountain. Located 16 km away from the city, this is perfect for social distancing, soaking in some crisp air, and unwinding amidst nature.
Montenegro
In addition to the UAE, Montenegro is open to tourists from 50 countries on the green list. Tourists are required to wear facemasks at all times and follow social distancing. However, partying is strictly prohibited.