ICA registration must for travellers flying into Abu Dhabi

Starting August 27, all passengers flying into the UAE capital must register on the Federal Authority For Identity and Citizenship (ICA) Smart Travel Service.

That's according to the latest guidelines issued by Etihad Airways, which said the rule will apply to adults, children and infants, even if they are travelling onward to Dubai or another emirate.

In a statement sent to ARN News Centre, the UAE national carrier said the decision, which is following a government directive, will not apply to UAE nationals and transit passengers. 

Once registered the passengers will receive a QR code via email.

Passengers who have been vaccinated outside of the UAE can upload their records at least five days before travel to get it validated.

This step can be skipped for passengers who have been vaccinated in the UAE. 

The airline clarified that vaccination is not a condition of entry to Abu Dhabi but will be needed to move about freely in the city.

Travel Update: New regulations apply for your trip to Abu Dhabi. Following government directives, you must register via the ICA Smart Travel Service before your flight even if you are travelling to Dubai or another emirate. For more details, visit https://t.co/qdnKJkGoXg pic.twitter.com/dxnvPufwn2

— Etihad (@etihad) August 26, 2021

However, passengers from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka will still need to get ICA approval before they can fly to Abu Dhabi.