COVID-19 restrictions relaxation: Al Hosn App Green Pass update
Effective from 7th November 2022, the UAE government has decided to lift the majority of COVID-19 restrictions, including the requirement to wear masks (except for in health facilities, hospitals and centers for people of determination) and the need to maintain Green Status on the Al Hosn App.
Contributing to the global efforts against COVID-19, all the emirates, including Abu Dhabi, had limited entry to public places, including restaurants, cafes, malls and shops. Particularly in the capital, only those with a Green Pass on Al Hosn could gain access to certain public venues.
However, after careful study and research, the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority recently announced that most COVID-19 rules would no longer be in force, except for a few specific measures. Read on for all the details.
ABU DHABI GREEN PASS NO LONGER REQUIRED
After more than two-and-a-half years of strict regulations, the government has eased COVID-19 measures across the country. This also means a Green Pass is no longer required to enter shopping malls, restaurants or other public places in Abu Dhabi.
As a consequence of the relaxation of COVID-19 safety measures, residents no longer need to undertake regular PCR tests to maintain Green Status on the Al Hosn app. However, the organisers of sporting event can still request PCR tests for entry.
The decision has been made subsequent to the success of the country’s vaccination programme, various treatment initiatives and consistently low infection rates. However, according to the authorities, all these actions are open to revision and adjustment dependent on constant review of the nation’s epidemiological situation.
Note that the Green Pass requirement for entry to Abu Dhabi from other emirates and the Green List for international travellers was removed on 26th February 2022.
ABOUT GREEN PASS IN ABU DHABI
The Green Pass is one of three colour codes on the Al Hosn app. The other two colours are grey and red. The contact tracing app Al Hosn is a UAE government initiative to contain the spread of coronavirus. The red, grey or green status on the Al Hosn app reflects the COVID-19 PCR test validity and the individual’s vaccination status.
Authorities implemented Green Pass Abu Dhabi on 15th June 2021 for all residents aged 16 and above. As per the Abu Dhabi Emergency Crisis and Disasters Committee’s statement, this pass was part of the emirate’s four-pillar strategy: active contract tracings, vaccination, safe entry and adopting preventive measures.
Previously, tourists and residents could maintain their Green Pass in the Al Hosn app by undertaking the following steps:
- Fully vaccinated tourists and residents must have a negative PCR test after every 30 days. Earlier, people were required to get tested after 14 days to retain their pass. However, from 28th September 2022, the government has increased the validity of negative PCR tests.
- Unvaccinated people must get a PCR test every seven days to maintain their green status.
- People who have just recovered from COVID-19 will get a 30-day Green Pass, 11 days after getting a positive test result.
- Children under 16 have the Green Pass automatically without needing a test.
GREEN PASS FOR TOURISTS
Although visitors and residents don’t need to show a green permit to enter public areas in Abu Dhabi, having the Al Hosn app on your phone is still recommended. It lets you keep your most recent vaccination and testing records.
Before leaving their home country, travellers can sign up for the “Register Arrival” section using the ICA app, fill out the required form and upload their vaccination certificate. Next, they will receive a link to download the Al Hosn app via SMS.
Upon arrival in the capital city, you will receive a UID (Unified Identification Number) via the ICA app, website or at the airport. You can register on the Al Hosn app immediately with the UID. Once the registration is complete, use the app to check your test results, travel test requirements and other vaccination-related information via an active QR code.
You can visit the official website of Al Hosn for further information.
FAQS
DO I STILL NEED TO ISOLATE AFTER TESTING POSITIVE FOR COVID-19?
Yes. Five-day isolation is still mandatory after testing positive.
DO I STILL NEED TO WEAR A MASK?
As per the latest briefing of the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority, the restriction on wearing a mask at all open and closed facilities has been lifted. Yet, you need to wear a mask inside healthcare facilities and hospitals.
HOW TO DOWNLOAD THE AL HOSN APP?
You can easily download the Alhosn app from Google Play or App Store. Enter your associated number and Emirates ID to generate an OTP to register. Don’t forget to turn on your phone’s Bluetooth while using the app.
WHAT ARE THE UAE-APPROVED COVID-19 VACCINES?
Sinopharm, Pfizer-use BioNTech and Sputnik V are some of the UAE-approved vaccines. These are accessible throughout the UAE and completely free of charge.
That is all we have for you on the latest update about the Green Pass Abu Dhabi. COVID-19 measures being eased throughout the country is definitely an optimistic sign for both residents and visitors of their lives finally returning to normalcy.
The timely initiatives by the Abu Dhabi Government have helped create a safe and healthy environment for everyone. And Al Hosn app is one of the integral tools in the fight against COVID-19.
If you need to get a COVID-19 PCR test in the emirate, you can book an appointment at any COVID-19 testing centre in Abu Dhabi. Numerous testing centres in Dubai also offer swift and efficient services.
