Swabs for Dh180: Flydubai offers discounted PCR tests for passengers

The low-cost airline has teamed up with Aster DM Healthcare to create the special rate for travellers departing from Dubai

Flydubai is offering travellers departing Dubai PCR tests for Dh180. EPA

Flydubai has teamed up with a healthcare provider to offer passengers discounted Covid-19 tests.

The low-cost airline has partnered with Aster DM Healthcare in Dubai to offer travellers PCR tests priced at Dh180. The swabs typically cost Dh370 at most testing clinics.

Currently, all passengers travelling from Dubai to the UK or Europe must take a PCR swab test no more than 96 hours before departure. Additionally, all passengers either travelling to, or connecting through Dubai, must take a swab test within 96 hours of departure.

“In this new way of travelling, we recognise that the precautionary measures that are in place result in additional planning and preparation for passengers as well as associated costs," said Hamad Obaidalla, the airline's chief commercial officer.

"This service offers fast and efficient testing at a discounted price. Along with our safety measures on board and our recently introduced free global cover for Covid-19, passengers can be encouraged to travel knowing that for each step of their journey these services will help more passengers fly again.”

The discounted tests are only available for flydubai passengers departing from Dubai, who must share their flight booking confirmation along with their Emirates ID or a copy of their passport when redeeming the offer.

The tests can be carried out at any of the 28 Aster Hospitals and Clinics across Dubai and the Northern Emirates, with results issued within 48 hours.

The Dh180 tests are valid for any passengers who have booked a flydubai flight, whether directly with the airline or through a travel agent.

Passengers can contact the Aster DM Healthcare call centre on 04 440 0500 to book an appointment. For a list of participating clinics, click here.

Free Covid-19 medical cover for travellers

News of the discounted tests comes one week after flydubai announced it will offer passengers free medical cover for Covid-19.

All travellers who fly with the airline will automatically be entitled to assistance towards medical costs incurred if they contract the coronavirus.

Emirates made a similar announcement in July, when it became the first in the world to offer passengers free assistance if they catch the virus.

The assistance being offered by flydubai is valid for 31 days from the date of the first flight, regardless of whether it is a one-way or return journey. Passengers can even land in their chosen destination and continue on to another city – by train, bus or plane – and remain eligible for assistance from the airline for Covid-19 until those 31 days are up.