# United Arab Emirates in 2020 – Traveling During the COVID-19 Pandemic

- Link: https://warsawtravelers.pl/en/asia/united-arab-emirates-traveling-during-the-pandemic/
- Published: 2024-11-25T18:14:05+01:00
- Author: Filip Chochół

Ten wpis jest również dostępny w języku:  [⌊Switch to Polski⌉Polski](https://warsawtravelers.pl/azja/emiraty-arabskie-jak-podrozowalo-sie-w-czasach-pandemii/)

 Table of contents

## Hello! 👋

In September 2020, while the world was still grappling with the COVID-19 pandemic,
I decided to embark on a journey to the United Arab Emirates. It was a time when
traveling wasn’t easy, and most people were still avoiding long-distance trips. 
However, eager to explore new places, I chose to face the restrictions and challenges
that this difficult period brought.

This was my second visit to the Emirates, back when I was still traveling solo, 
before I met Jadzia. Looking back, traveling alone had its charm but also came with
extra challenges. I didn’t know what to expect – what procedures would be required
or even if the trip would happen at all.

This article is a recount of that trip. I’ll share the “hurdles” I had to overcome
just to board the plane and what it was like exploring the Emirates at a time when
the world was still adjusting to a new reality. Join me as I reflect on this unique
journey! 😊

 [ ⌊Dubai Atlantis Hotel at night with illuminated arches and palm gardens in the UAE⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/uae-dubai-atlantis-hotel-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊UAE, Ras Al Khaimah beach at sunset with a waving UAE flag over sandy shore and calm sea⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/uae-ras-al-khaimah-beach-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

## Procedures and requirements

In September 2020, during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, traveling came with
numerous restrictions and procedures. To enter the UAE, it was mandatory to present
a negative PCR test result for COVID-19, taken no more than 96 hours before departure.
The test had to be conducted in an [accredited laboratory](https://c.ekstatic.net/ecl/documents/health-screening-documents/approved-laboratories.pdf),
with the results provided in English or Arabic.

In Poland at that time, COVID-19 tests were not widely accessible, and their cost
was relatively high. For those planning to travel, taking a test was not only a 
necessity but also a logistical challenge.

To meet the [UAE’s entry requirements](https://blog.avocats.deloitte.fr/united-arab-emirates-covid-19-immigration-update/),
I used Warsaw Genomics’ services. I ordered a test that was conducted at home. A
laboratory worker arrived by taxi, provided a self-swab kit, and then collected 
the sample for analysis. The process was convenient and efficient, with results 
delivered the very next day.

It’s worth noting that at the time, the UAE’s entry procedures were strictly enforced.
Upon arrival at Dubai International Airport (DXB), travelers underwent additional
screenings, including temperature checks. If any symptoms of illness were detected,
there was a possibility of being directed for further testing or placed under quarantine.

Traveling during the pandemic required not only meeting formal requirements but 
also flexibility and readiness for unexpected changes. The epidemiological situation
could shift rapidly, affecting flight availability or the restrictions in place.
Therefore, before each trip, it was essential to thoroughly check the latest entry
requirements and prepare for potential challenges.

 [ ⌊Warsaw Genomics COVID test kit instruction sheet with a swab tube and cotton swab on top of it⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/poland-warsaw-covid-test-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

## How did I get to the Emirates?

In 2020, amid the pandemic, flights were more complicated than usual. A ticket to
Dubai with KLM, with a layover in Amsterdam, cost 1500 PLN. This included carry-
on luggage: a backpack and a small cabin suitcase. For those times, it was a really
reasonable price.

At the airport, it was necessary to have all the required documents on hand. A staff
member from the airline verified the COVID-19 test results. Honestly? Looking back,
the process felt quite lenient. The staff didn’t have the tools or means to truly
verify the authenticity of the test. I got the impression that even a doctored document
might have slipped through – though, of course, I’m not encouraging such actions!
Nevertheless, spending 400 PLN on a test wasn’t exactly pleasant.

### Take off from Warsaw and fly to Amsterdam

There weren’t many passengers on board, which definitely worked in my favor. The
flight was comfortable, with significantly more space around me than usual.

Unfortunately, face masks were mandatory from the moment I entered the airport until
I left the plane in Dubai. They were required at all times, which occasionally became
a challenge. For me, with a deviated septum, wearing a mask was particularly difficult.
Breathing was tough when the mask covered my nose, but sliding it down briefly brought
some relief. Thankfully, the flight attendants showed some understanding, even though
masks were officially supposed to be worn correctly at all times.

Despite the discomfort, the trip went without major problems.

 [ ⌊Passengers seated inside an airplane at Amsterdam Airport, Netherlands, with staff wearing masks during the flight⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/netherlands-amsterdam-airport-001-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊KLM airplane at Amsterdam Airport, with the jet bridge connected and ground crew nearby⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/netherlands-amsterdam-airport-002-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

### Transfer at Amsterdam-Schiphol Airport

During my layover in Amsterdam, I decided to take the opportunity for a quick stroll
through the city center. With a few hours to spare, I grabbed breakfast and explored
the area briefly. People on the streets were also wearing masks, but at least no
additional documents were required for entry into Amsterdam at that time.

And Schiphol Airport? It was emptier than I had ever seen before. Accustomed to 
bustling crowds, I was surprised by how few passengers were there. There was a dedicated
zone for flights outside the European Union, where additional document checks were
conducted.

 [ ⌊Amsterdam canal-side buildings with parked bicycles along a narrow waterway⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/netherlands-amsterdam-covid-001-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Amsterdam Airport arrivals hall with Samsung Galaxy Z Flip display stands and gate signage in view⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/netherlands-amsterdam-covid-002-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊KLM aircraft at Amsterdam Airport, with boarding bridge, jet bridge signage, and ground equipment.⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/netherlands-amsterdam-covid-004-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Amsterdam Airport departure area with yellow gate signs for Gates D, EFG and transfer routes⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/netherlands-amsterdam-covid-003-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Travelers waiting at Amsterdam Airport check-in counters with electronic flight information screens overhead⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/netherlands-amsterdam-covid-005-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

### What awaited passengers on the flight?

The plane I flew on was almost empty, which was a huge plus – it allowed for a comfortable
and spacious journey. However, the cabin crew looked like they had stepped straight
out of a hospital ward – protective gowns, goggles, masks, gloves – the full setup!
On top of that, the rules were much stricter than usual. Masks had to be worn properly
at all times, with no lowering them below the nose allowed.

 [ ⌊Aircraft cabin with rows of seats at Netherlands, Amsterdam Airport⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/netherlands-amsterdam-covid-007-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Passengers and flight crew in the aisle of an aircraft at Amsterdam Airport, Netherlands, with an EXIT sign visible⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/netherlands-amsterdam-covid-006-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

### DXB and document control

I landed in Dubai, and the first thing that caught my eye was the abundance of stickers
reminding everyone to maintain social distancing. Document checks were quick and
straightforward, with no significant issues. As I mentioned earlier, there was no
practical way for officials to verify whether the COVID-19 test results were authentic
or not.

Of course, if the document had raised any suspicions, there could have been consequences,
as using false documentation is a criminal offense. However, in practice, the checks
were quite superficial. The officials merely glanced at the test to confirm it said“
negative”, and that was it. Every time I had to undergo a COVID-19 test later on,
the scenario was always the same – as long as “negative” was on the result, they
didn’t seem to care about anything else.

 [ ⌊People queue inside Dubai Airport arrivals area with stanchions and flight information screens, UAE⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/uae-dubai-covid-001.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Dubai metro station interior with glass walls, platform doors, and pillars under a high ceiling⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/uae-dubai-covid-002-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

## What was tourism like during the pandemic?

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted global tourism, including the United
Arab Emirates. In 2020, the UAE implemented various restrictions to control the 
spread of the virus. In March 2020, the borders were closed to foreigners, and international
flights were suspended. However, by July 2020, Dubai reopened to tourists, allowing
entry only with a negative PCR test for COVID-19. Strict rules were in place, including
mandatory mask-wearing, social distancing, and limitations on the operation of tourist
attractions.

For travelers who prefer less crowded destinations, the pandemic period offered 
a rare opportunity for quieter exploration. Fewer tourists meant no crowds at popular
attractions, allowing for more comfortable experiences. However, traveling during
this time required adapting to local regulations and restrictions, which often differed
from those in other countries.

During my visit in September 2020, I noticed that the residents of the UAE were 
striving to maintain a sense of normalcy despite the ongoing restrictions. It’s 
important to remember that, as guests in a foreign country, we should always respect
and adapt to local regulations and customs, even if some of them might seem unusual
or inconvenient to us.

Traveling beyond Dubai, I observed a striking contrast between the modern city and
smaller towns. While Dubai dazzles with its cutting-edge architecture and infrastructure,
the smaller Arab villages exude a more traditional atmosphere, offering a deeper
insight into the culture and lifestyle of the UAE’s residents.

 [ ⌊Dubai article photos featuring a framed portrait of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum with a motivational quote⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/uae-dubai-covid-003-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Camels and a calf in a desert near Dubai, UAE, with sparse shrubs and distant industrial buildings⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/uae-dubai-covid-004-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Dubai skyline with high-rise towers and busy highway interchanges overlooking the coast in UAE⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/uae-dubai-covid-005-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Dubai street view with cars driving toward low desert mountains and roadside shops⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/uae-ras-al-khaimah-001-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

## Moving between Emirates

The United Arab Emirates consists of seven emirates: Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, 
Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah. Each emirate has a degree of
autonomy and can implement its own regulations, particularly evident during the 
pandemic.

During my visit in September 2020, I planned to visit Abu Dhabi. However, the regulations
at the time required a negative PCR test for entry into the emirate, conducted within
a specific timeframe before arrival. The test I had upon entering the UAE was no
longer valid. Checkpoints at the border between Dubai and Abu Dhabi verified the
validity of these tests. Due to these restrictions, I decided to skip Abu Dhabi 
and focused on exploring the other emirates instead.

 [ ⌊Driver in a car on a highway in Ras Al Khaimah, UAE, with skyline visible in the distance⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/uae-ras-al-khaimah-002-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Ras Al Khaimah street view with a rocky mountain backdrop and roadside shops under a clear blue sky⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/uae-ras-al-khaimah-003-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Ras Al Khaimah street with palm trees and vehicles, framed by rugged mountains under a clear blue sky⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/uae-ras-al-khaimah-004-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Dubai highway with overhead exit signs for Al Warqa’a, Ras Al Khor, and Hatta, UAE, with a truck on the right⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/uae-dubai-road-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

## Accommodation

### Dubai

During my stay in Dubai, I chose the [Elite Byblos Hotel](https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?pcs=1&cid=1933139&hl=pl-pl&hid=294805).
Overall, the room was quite decent—clean and tidied daily, with a bathroom that 
included a bidet and bathtub. The air conditioning worked perfectly, and the bed
was comfortable. On top of that, I received an upgraded room, which was a pleasant
surprise.

However, that’s where the list of advantages ended. The hotel clearly fell short
of five-star standards. Many amenities were unavailable, including the pool, gym,
and three out of four elevators. Breakfast was served to the room, but the wait 
time could stretch to an hour, and orders were frequently mixed up. To make matters
worse, the menu was the same every day, which quickly became monotonous.

The bathroom, despite being equipped with a bidet, had a crookedly installed sink
and silicone applied so poorly that it looked terrible. The exterior windows were
extremely dirty – a common issue in Dubai, but here it seemed particularly bad. 
The reception staff were not very helpful, and their attempt to charge me for breakfasts
that were already included in the price was, to say the least, frustrating.

 [ ⌊UAE, Dubai Hotel in pandemic time: contemporary hotel room with a bed, sofa, and suitcases in muted lighting⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/uae-dubai-039-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊UAE, Dubai Hotel in pandemic time: coffee cup on a dining tray beside tea setup and snacks in a quiet room⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/uae-dubai-038.jpeg)

### Fujarjah

In Fujairah, I stayed at the Royal M Hotel. Overall, the stay was quite decent, 
although some amenities were unavailable due to pandemic restrictions. Despite this,
the comfort of the room met my expectations, and the bed was exceptionally comfortable.

I did not order breakfast this time, so I had no reason to complain in this regard.

 [ ⌊UAE, Fujairah view from hotel over a desert highway with mountains in the distance⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/uae-fujairah-view-from-hotel-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Seating area inside UAE, Fujairah Shopping Centre with colorful chairs and tables in a modern lobby⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/uae-fujairah-shopping-centre-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

## Car rental

During this trip, I rented a car from Budget. The entire process was seamless – 
both pickup and return were quick and efficient. The rental price was reasonable
for the time, which further enhanced my overall impression of the service.

If you’re planning to rent a car abroad, be sure to check out our article **🚗 [How to Rent a Car and What to look out for](https://warsawtravelers.pl/en/guides/car-rental-what-you-need-to-know/)**–
packed with practical tips and information to help you avoid any surprises.

Don’t forget that renting a car in the Emirates requires an **🪪 [International Driving Permit](https://warsawtravelers.pl/en/guides/what-is-an-international-driving-permit-and-when-is-it-needed/)**–
learn more about how to obtain it in our dedicated article.

 [ ⌊White rental cars in Dubai, UAE, parked in a lot with modern buildings in the background⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/uae-dubai-rental-car-001-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Budget Vehicle Return Process document for Dubai car rental in UAE with printed instructions and contact details⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/uae-dubai-rental-car-002-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

### Is every car off-road?

And that’s where my adventure really began. I decided to veer off the main road 
and drive down a gravel side route alongside the highway. It seemed like a great
idea at the time… until the gravel road ended, and I got the car stuck in the hot
sand. The outside temperature? Around 38 degrees – a real scorcher. Well done, me.

The situation forced me to act quickly, before anyone from the rental company found
out about my “off-roading” adventure. After sitting in the scorching heat like an
idiot for two hours, I managed to find a local guy who came with a big Nissan to
tow me out. The whole thing was a comedy – while pulling my car out, he scraped 
the underside of my car on the only bush around. I was praying nothing got damaged.

The cost of this little adventure? 450 PLN. Initially, he asked for 600, but I managed
to haggle it down. I paid in cash at a nearby gas station (the currency card came
in handy here), settled the bill, and got back on the road. The moral of the story?
A lack of experience and not using your brain in that situation can lead to these
kinds of issues 😊 Never go alone into the desert by car, always travel with someone.
That way, if one car gets stuck, you’ve got a backup vehicle. And most importantly,
don’t take a car that isn’t suited for the terrain.

 [ ⌊White rental car in Dubai, UAE parked in the desert dunes.⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/uae-dubai-rental-car-003-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊White rental car on a desert road in Dubai, UAE, with utility towers in the background⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/uae-dubai-rental-car-004-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

## What was I able to see?

During my trip to the United Arab Emirates in September 2020, I had the opportunity
to visit several interesting places.

In Dubai, I visited the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, as well
as the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo. It was there that I saw penguins for the
first time in my life – a sight that really made me laugh! 😊 I also took walks 
around the area near my hotel, close to the Dubai Mall, and along Dubai Marina. 
However, it’s important to note that walking in Dubai is a completely different 
experience compared to European cities. The distances are much greater, and the 
pedestrian infrastructure doesn’t always make for a comfortable stroll – pedestrian
crossings, bridges, or underground paths are rare, as the city is mainly designed
with drivers in mind.

 [ ⌊UAE, Dubai Attractions: purple anemonefish sheltering among glowing tentacles in a Dubai aquarium tank⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/uae-dubai-atractions-003-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊UAE, Dubai Attractions: group of penguins in a purple-lit indoor exhibit enclosure in Dubai Attractions⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/uae-dubai-atractions-004-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Dubai skyline with tall skyscrapers, Emaar tower, and resort pools from UAE Dubai Attractions⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/uae-dubai-atractions-002-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Dubai attractions at night with the illuminated Burj Khalifa skyline and waterfront lights in UAE⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/uae-dubai-atractions-001-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

One of the most interesting places I visited was the abandoned Soviet Il-76 aircraft
in Umm al-Quwain. The plane stood on the outskirts near the road and was easily 
recognizable by the inscription “Palm Beach Hotel” painted on its side. It looked
like a relic of the past, attracting the attention of anyone passing by. Unfortunately,
as of the time of writing this article, the plane has been scrapped, marking the
end of its story as a local curiosity.

 [ ⌊A Russian plane at Umm Al Quwain, UAE, parked on the desert airfield with open sky above⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/uae-al-quwain-russian-plane-001-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Umm Al Quwain, UAE Russian plane parked on a desert airstrip with the nose facing the camera⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/uae-al-quwain-russian-plane-002-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

### Further exploration

During this trip, I decided not to limit myself to just Dubai. I wanted to see how
other emirates looked, so I hopped in the car and set off on an exploration. My 
route took me through Ras al-Khaimah, where I had the opportunity to admire the 
landscapes and observe how the emirates differed from one another. It was more of
a driver’s perspective of sightseeing than walking, but this approach allowed me
to better understand the layout of the cities and the unique characteristics of 
the region.

After spending the night in Fujairah, I decided to head to Hatta to see the famous
Hatta Dam. Although the two locations are over an hour apart, the drive was very
enjoyable. The Hatta Dam, located in the Hajar Mountains, is an impressive structure
surrounded by stunning landscapes.

This popular recreational spot offers opportunities for kayaking, hiking, and enjoying
nature. Climbing to the higher parts of the dam was a real fitness challenge for
me – heavy breathing all the way up, but the views from the top made every effort
worthwhile. Hatta is definitely a place worth visiting, especially if you’re looking
to experience something beyond the typical urban attractions of the Emirates.

 [ ⌊UAE, Hatta Dam: large mural painting of two men on the dam’s concrete face against a blue sky⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/uae-hatta-dam-002-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Hatta Dam in UAE with rocky mountains, a calm reservoir, and moored boats by the pier at sunset⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/uae-hatta-dam-001-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

## Return to Poland

This is where the next issues began. It turned out that in order to enter Poland,
a negative COVID-19 test result was required. With only 30 hours left before the
flight, I had no idea where to get the test done. There was an option in Fujairah
to get tested at a nearby hospital, but no one was answering the phone there. Not
wanting to take any chances, I decided to return to Dubai, to the Dubai Healthcare
City area, where I found a facility that could do the test in time.

### COVID-19 test

The whole process looked like a temporary festival – set-up seating, parking, makeshift
tents. The nurse took the swab, and for a moment, I felt like I had just pressed
the reset button – that’s the effect this procedure had on me. Theoretically, the
result was supposed to be ready within 24 hours, and I picked it up just an hour
before my flight. I quickly headed to the airport, ready for the check.

And what, absolutely no one asked me to show the test. All this fuss turned out 
to be completely unnecessary.

 [ ⌊Emirates Speciality Hospital in Dubai at night, lit up with blue lights and white tents in the foreground⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/uae-dubai-covid-hospital-001-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Dubai clinic waiting area with social distancing floor markers and seated chairs during the pandemic in the UAE⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/uae-dubai-covid-hospital-002-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊UAE, Dubai Pandemic article photos—people queueing inside a hospital reception area with token counter screens showing numbers.⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/uae-dubai-covid-hospital-003-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Emirates Specialty Hospital Dubai lab report showing Covid-19 PCR result: Not Detected (Negative)⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/uae-dubai-covid-hospital-004-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

### Airport

At Amsterdam airport, this time I didn’t go out anywhere. What amused me was the
plastic sheets instead of plexiglass at some service points. It looked a bit like
a scene from a futuristic pandemic movie – absolute craziness.

The return flight to Poland was similar to the one to the Emirates – few passengers,
flight attendants in gowns, masks, and gloves, and many shopping areas at the airport
were closed. The atmosphere of silence and emptiness was almost surreal.

It was a unique time that we are unlikely to experience again. If you had the chance
to travel back then, congratulations – you have memories to cherish and stories 
to share with future generations. 😊

 [ ⌊Dubai Airport departures hall with illuminated wayfinding signs for B1–B32 and C1–C50 at night⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/uae-dubai-airport-covid-001-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Dubai Airport departure hall with blue gate signs B17-B332 and B18-B332 overhead⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/uae-dubai-airport-covid-002-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Dubai Airport duty-free store with red “Dubai Duty Free” branding and neatly arranged displays⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/uae-dubai-airport-covid-003-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Netherlands, Amsterdam Airport terminal interior with lane closed signs and boarding gates B4/B6⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/netherlands-amsterdam-airport-covid-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

## The adventure that continues…

Traveling to the Emirates during the pandemic was a unique experience, but it’s 
just one part of our adventure with this country. If you’d like to learn more about
our other journeys and discoveries, check out these posts:

 * **🇦🇪 [First Impressions of the United Arab Emirates](https://warsawtravelers.pl/en/asia/united-arab-emirates-first-impressions-from-a-2019-journey/)**–
   The story of my first trip in 2019. What was my first encounter with the Middle
   East like, and what did I learn from it?
 * **👫 [A Guide to the United Arab Emirates ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/en/asia/united-arab-emirates-travel-reflections-and-practical-tips/)**–
   A comprehensive article on everything you need to know about the UAE. Pros, cons,
   our joint trip in January 2023, and our impressions.
 * **🏙️ [What to see in and around Dubai?](https://warsawtravelers.pl/azja/emiraty-arabskie-co-polecamy-zobaczyc-bedac-w-dubaju/)**–
   A Guide to Dubai’s Top Attractions and Surroundings. Tips on what to focus on
   during your trip.
 * **🌇 [Abu Dhabi and nearby areas – what do we recommend seeing?](https://warsawtravelers.pl/en/asia/united-arab-emirates-top-attractions-to-see-in-abu-dhabi/)**–
   A Guide to the UAE’s Capital and Its most fascinating spots. Plus, our experience
   riding in a self-driving taxi!

Enjoy reading and discovering the Emirates together! 😊