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Travellers from UAE and Bahrain can now travel to Germany irrespective of vaccination status

The latest decision to add the two countries to the German safe list was based on a recommendation of the Council of the European Union

by Varun Godinho

October 13, 2021

The German government will now allow travel to Germany from Bahrain and the UAE, regardless of an individual’s vaccination status.

The latest decision to add the two countries to the German safe list was based on a recommendation of the Council of the European Union.

In an update issued by the EU Council on October 8, Member States were urged to lift the entry restrictions on travellers from Bahrain and the UAE, after it observed that both countries reported a drop in the number of coronavirus cases recorded in their respective countries over the last few weeks.

“Following a review under the recommendation on the gradual lifting of the temporary restrictions on non-essential travel into the EU, the Council updated the list of countries, special administrative regions and other entities and territorial authorities for which travel restrictions should be lifted. In particular, Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates were added to the list,” noted a statement issued by the Council.

Other GCC countries including Kuwait, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia were already present on the EU and Germany safe list.

The reduction in restrictions to travel to Germany apply to all travellers aged 12 and over. Visitors are now able to provide a negative Covid-19 test taken within 72 hours of travel, a valid vaccination certificate, or proof of recovery.

The EU issues and updates its recommendations to member states regularly. The safe list is reviewed and revised every two weeks by the EU authorities and members states.

“The new travel regulations for GCC visitors makes travel to Germany easier and more appealing for travellers,” said Yamina Sofo, director of sales and marketing of the German National Tourist Office. “The winter season remains an important travel period for Germany, and this news will support regional travellers’ interest in exploring the array of festive seasonal markets, spa and wellness retreats, and outdoor sporting activities across Germany.”