Dubai: Dubai travel authorities have tightened entry guidelines for visit visa holders stressing on the necessity of carrying essential documents and funds.
According to tourism agencies interviewed by Khaleej Times, travelers on Dubai visit visas are now required to possess Dh3,000 (67,947.75 Indian Rupee)in cash, a valid return ticket, and proof of accommodation.
Firoz Maliyakkal, founder and CEO of Tahira Tours and Travels, spoke on the significance of these requirements and stated that travelers must ensure they have a valid visa, a passport with at least six months' validity, and a confirmed return ticket. Additionally, they must carry sufficient funds equivalent to Dh3,000, along with proof of accommodation in the UAE, which can be in the form of a relative's or friend’s residence or a hotel booking.
While this regulation has been in place for some time, recent enforcement measures aim to enhance monitoring and compliance among travelers. Libin Varghese from Rooh Travel and Tourism said that stringent checks at airports aim to prevent overstaying and promote transparency within the tourism sector.
Instances of travelers encountering difficulties due to non-compliance have surfaced. Abin S, a tourist arriving from Cochin International Airport, was unable to provide sufficient proof of accommodation and had to endure a four-day wait at the airport before returning to his hometown. Similarly, Indian tourist Abhishek was denied boarding at Cochin International Airport for failing to meet the documentation requirements, resulting in financial losses and the need to rebook his flight to Dubai.
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London, Nov 22: A bomb disposal squad deployed as a “precaution” to the South Terminal of Gatwick Airport concluded an investigation into a "security incident" on Friday after making a “suspect package” safe.
The South Terminal of Gatwick Airport, the UK's second busiest airport after Heathrow, which was briefly shut owing to the incident reopened following the incident.
The Gatwick is around 45 km south of London.
Two people detained during the enquiries have since been allowed to continue their journey as the airport was opened.
“Police have concluded their investigation into a report of a suspect package at Gatwick Airport. Officers from the EOD (Explosive Ordnance Disposal) team made the package safe, and the airport has been handed back to its operator,” Sussex Police said in an updated statement.
“Two people detained while enquiries were ongoing have subsequently been allowed to continue their journeys. There will remain an increased police presence in the area to assist with passengers accessing the South Terminal for onward travel,” the statement added.
Earlier on Friday, the incident caused severe disruption at the busy airport’s South Terminal, while the North Terminal of Gatwick Airport remained unaffected.
“Police were called to the South Terminal at Gatwick Airport at 8.20 am on Friday (November 22) following the discovery of a suspected prohibited item in luggage,” a Sussex Police statement said.
“To ensure the safety of the public, staff and other airport users, a security cordon has been put in place whilst the matter is dealt with. As a precaution, an EOD (Explosive Ordnance Disposal) team is being deployed to the airport. This is causing significant disruption and some roads around the South Terminal have been closed. We’d advise the public to avoid the area where possible,” it said.
Footage on social media taken outside the airport showed crowds of frustrated travellers being moved away from the terminal building.
Gatwick said it was working hard to resolve the issue.
“A large part of the South Terminal has been evacuated as a precaution while we continue to investigate a security incident," the airport said in a social media post.
“Passengers will not be able to enter the South Terminal while this is ongoing. The safety and security of our passengers and staff remain our top priority. We are working hard to resolve the issue as quickly as possible.”
Train and bus services that serve the airport were also impacted while the police carried out their inquiries.
In an unrelated incident in south London on Friday morning, the US Embassy area in Nine Elms by the River Thames was the scene of a controlled explosion by Scotland Yard dealing with what they believe may have been a “hoax device”.
“We can confirm the 'loud bang' reported in the area a short time ago was a controlled explosion carried out by officers,” the Metropolitan Police said in a post on X.
“Initial indications are that the item was a hoax device. An investigation will now follow. Some cordons will remain in place for the time being but the majority of the police response will now be stood down,” it added.