A senior aviation official revealed that individuals vaccinated against COVID-19 could benefit from less stringent travel requirements in the upcoming months.
Adel Al-Nahedh, Chief Operating Officer of Emirates Airline, discussed the recent collaboration between the Dubai Health Authority and Emirates Airline, which will create a digital version of medical records related to COVID-19 for travelers. These records will provide information about travelers’ COVID-19 status, including test dates, infection dates, and eventually, vaccination records. He noted that once fully operational, each traveler's health information will be shared directly from accredited DHA laboratories to the Emirates booking system.
"We are trying to establish a connection between Emirates systems, whether at the time of booking or check-in, and the humanitarian affairs management systems," he said. While vaccination passports may not become mandatory for flying, those vaccinated may be able to bypass quarantine and isolation regulations in different countries.
Al-Nahedh explained that by sharing digital medical records with airlines, travelers could return to a smoother travel experience, as relevant COVID-19 test data would be automatically provided, eliminating the need for passengers to carry any documents. He added, "I can’t speak to any Emirati ruling, but I believe that instead of [vaccination passports] being mandatory, there will be a relaxation of certain standards for vaccinated individuals," indicating that hurdles would be less for travelers who have received vaccinations compared to those who have not. The humanitarian affairs management will work with the Ministry of Health and Prevention to connect the system with all laboratories in the UAE.
