As October unfolds, UAE residents planning international travel should be aware of significant updates that may impact their journeys.
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As October unfolds, UAE residents planning international travel should be aware of significant updates that may impact their journeys.
As October unfolds, UAE residents planning international travel should be aware of significant updates that may impact their journeys. From streamlined entry procedures to onboard safety regulations and evolving border control systems, staying informed is crucial for a smooth travel experience.
Effective October 1, 2025, travelers flying from the UAE to Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport can now complete their arrival details online before departure. The new E-Arrival Card replaces traditional paper immigration forms with a secure online platform. Passengers can submit their information up to three days prior to arrival. This initiative aims to reduce waiting times at immigration and streamline entry for Gulf-based travelers visiting India for work, family, or tourism. Currently, this system applies to foreign nationals; Indian citizens and OCI cardholders can utilize the Fast Track Immigration–Trusted Traveller Programme (FTI-TTP) launched in June 2024.
Emirates has implemented a ban on the use of all power banks onboard its flights, effective October 1, 2025. While passengers may still carry power banks in hand luggage, they are prohibited from using them during the flight. This decision follows a safety review highlighting the risks associated with lithium battery incidents, including overheating, fires, or explosions caused by ‘thermal runaway.’ Emirates recommends fully charging devices before boarding, especially on long-haul flights, and notes that every seat is equipped with in-seat charging ports.
Starting October 12, 2025, Europe will begin rolling out its new Digital Entry/Exit System (EES) across 29 countries, with full implementation expected by April 10, 2026. The EES will gradually replace manual passport stamping for non-EU nationals, including UAE residents. The system will collect biometric data such as fingerprints and facial images, along with passport and travel details. During the initial rollout, biometric checks may not be active at every border crossing, so passports may still be stamped. The EES aims to track the maximum authorized stay (90 days within any 180-day period), replace passport stamping in most cases, and help reduce border wait times by enabling automated checks.
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