Emirates and DHA implement digital verification of Covid-19 records

Travellers can now check-in with Emirates without presenting physical Covid-19 PCR test reports

Dubai-based carrier Emirates and the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) have begun to implement full digital verification of Covid-19 medical records pertinent to testing and vaccinations for travellers based in the UAE.

Travellers who have taken a PCR test in Dubai can choose to check-in without presenting a physical Covid-19 PCR test report. Additionally, those who have received their Covid-19 vaccination at a DHA health centre in Dubai can, with their PCR test results, have their documents synchronised during check-in. The information will then be matched with the entry requirements of the destination country.

The procedure aims to enable faster processing times for customers departing from Dubai International Airport. Emirates will only process information specifically related to the Covid-19 entry requirements of the customer’s destination. Once check-in formalities are completed, information will be immediately expunged from the carrier’s systems.

The next phase of digital verification will see the integration of health records within the IATA Travel Pass.

Customers who have taken PCR tests or vaccinations outside of Dubai will still be required to provide their physical travel documents at check-in. 

The integration comes less than two months after the signing of the MoU between Emirates and the Dubai Health Authority.

Emirates Airline chief operating officer Adel Al Redha said: “We are delighted to take this step within the aviation sector and cooperate with the DHA in linking our systems together to enhance the customer experience by processing the relevant documents in a more efficient, secure and effective manner. ”

DHA CEO of joint corporate support services Ahmed Al Nuaim added: “This partnership will help make travel easy and convenient, as well as ensure validation of all necessary Covid-19 medical records.”

Explaining the vital role played by technology in the initiative DHA director of IT, Kleitham Ali Al Shamsi said: “This partnership reinforces that technology has the potential to securely, conveniently and effectively assist airlines to receive the verified Covid-19 test results and vaccination records.” 

For more information, visit the Emirates