The extension of flight cessation is coming despite the
decision by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to open its borders to welcome fully
vaccinated tourists from all countries.
Flights between both countries have been halted since March
this year following diplomatic spat caused by COVID-19 protocols.
Since then, efforts to reinstate the flights have not
yielded results as both countries are yet to arrive at a common ground on the
procedure for inbound passengers.
Prior to the suspension of Nigerian flights by Emirates, the
airline was suspended by the Federal Government for introducing rapid antigen
test for Nigerian passengers in addition to the negative PCR test requirement
stipulated by the then Presidential Taskforce on COVID-19.
This prompted the UAE to suspend all flights to and from
Nigeria in the last five months.
Daily Trust reports that the Dubai News Agency WAM reported
on Saturday that with effect from Monday August 30, fully vaccinated tourists
would be allowed into the country.
It said applicants must have taken the full doses of the
COVID-19 vaccines approved by the World Health Organization (WHO).
"This decision applies to countries from which entry
was previously prohibited, given that people take the mandatory rapid PCR test
at the airport. Previous requirements remain valid for non-vaccinated groups.
"It is possible to register vaccination certificates
for travelers wishing to enjoy the advantages obtained by individuals who
received the vaccine in the country, through the Federal Authority for Identity
and Citizenship's platform and the Al Hosn application," the state media
reported.
But despite this, the coast is not yet clear for the
resumption of flights between Nigeria and UAE.
Emirates, in a statement on its website, said flights to and
from Nigeria will remain suspended until September 5, 2021.
"Customers who have been to or connected through
Nigeria in the last 14 days will not be permitted on any Emirates flights bound
for Dubai. Affected flight bookings have been cancelled," the airline
said.