Abu Dhabi updates entry procedures for truck drivers and vehicles transporting goods

Abu Dhabi has updated the entry regulations for drivers of trucks and vehicles transporting goods, effective from Monday, February 1, 2021.

All drivers must show a negative PCR test result received in the last seven days to be allowed entry into the emirate, the Abu Dhabi Emergency, Crisis and Disasters Committee announced on Monday.

Vaccinated drivers will be offered free PCR tests every seven days.

The decision is in line with precautionary measures to curb the spread of Covid-19, a statement said.

Violators may be liable for legal fines and penalties.

The committee urged the public to continue to adhere to precautionary and preventive measures.

The UAE has seen a rise in cases during the past few weeks, reporting a total of 3,591 new infections on January 25.

The health ministry also confirmed 3,820 recoveries and six deaths.

Read: Covid-19 update: UAE reports 3,591 new cases; nearly 2.5m vaccine shots administered

Earlier this month, Abu Dhabi also announced new Covid-19 testing requirements for all those entering the emirate from within the country.

It said a negative PCR or DPI test result not older than 48 hours is required to gain entry into Abu Dhabi. Previously, these test results had a validity of up to 72 hours for entry into the emirate.

It added that a mandatory PCR test must be undertaken by those who enter on day four of their entry for those staying for four days or more, and on day eight for those staying for eight days and above. The day of entry into Abu Dhabi is counted as day one.

Those failing to take these PCR tests on day four and eight will be liable for fines.

These procedures are applicable to all UAE citizens and residents, including Abu Dhabi residents, except for those vaccinated as part of national vaccination programmes and volunteers in the Phase III vaccine clinical trials who have an active status (letter ‘E’ or gold star) on the Alhosn app.

Read: Abu Dhabi changes Covid-19 testing rules for those entering from within the country