Identity and Citizenship - UAE and National Emergency, Crisis and Disasters Management Authority have launched the second phase of the UAE Resident Return Programme, which now removes the requirement for Abu Dhabi residents to wait for prior approval to return to the UAE capital whilst overseas.

Before booking flights to, or from Abu Dhabi, residents can visit a new website at https://uaeentry.ica.gov.ae, submit their passport details and Emirates ID number, to obtain instant verification of their UAE entry status, in accordance with their UAE residence visa validity.

Currently, all guests travelling on Etihad flights to, and via Abu Dhabi are required to show a negative COVID-19 PCR test result from a government approved testing facility. From 16 August, this will also apply to all guests departing from Abu Dhabi.

Travellers are advised to visit www.etihad.com/destinationguide to keep up-to-date on the latest information.