Tourists Might Be Able To Visit Dubai Again Very Soon

Despite the on-going COVID-19 pandemic, travel restrictions could be lifted within a few weeks

Last month the Dubai government made the decision to cease all tourist arrivals into the emirate via ports, in order to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus throughout the emirate. Now, it is hoping to welcome holidaymakers back into the emirate as soon as this summer. 

Authorities say the process of reopen to tourists will be gradual but could start as soon as July and will be based on global trends – but could be delayed until September.

“Many things remain closed and its more about the bilateral discussions. Is it going to be July when things start slowly opening up? Is it going to be September? We just need to make sure we’re ready if things come earlier than expected,” Helal Al Marri, director general of Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing, said to Bloomberg TV.

Dubai’s economy is heavily reliant on tourism, trade and retail. Tourist attractions have been shut down for the better part of the lockdown, however, some restaurants throughout the Emirate are starting to reopen. Both the Dubai Mall and Mall of The Emirates have partially reopened this week.

On April 24 the Dubai lockdown was eased. Residents are now allowed to leave their homes without a permit, between the hours of 6:00 and 22:00, providing they wear a mask at all times.

Lead image courtesy of Jason Lloyd-Evans (Chanel SS19)