Swabs for Dh180: Flydubai offers discounted PCR tests for passengers

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

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

Currently, all passengers travelling from Dubai to the united kingdom or Europe must have a PCR swab test only 96 hours before departure. Additionally, all passengers either going to, or connecting through Dubai, must have a swab test within 96 hours of departure.

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

"This service offers fast and efficient testing at a low price. Along with our safety precautions up to speed and our recently introduced free global cover for Covid-19, passengers could be encouraged to travel realizing that for each and every step of their journey these services can help more passengers fly again.”

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

The tests can be executed at 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've 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 a scheduled appointment. For a set of participating clinics, just click here.

Free Covid-19 medical cover for travellers

News of the discounted tests comes one week after flydubai announced it'll 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 indeed they contract the coronavirus.

Emirates made an identical announcement in July, when it became the first on the globe to provide passengers free assistance if they catch the virus.

The assistance being provided by flydubai is valid for 31 days from the date of the first flight, whether or not this is a one-way or return journey. Passengers can even land within their chosen destination and keep on to another city - by train, bus or plane - and remain qualified to receive the help of the airline for Covid-19 until those 31 days are up.