Local airlines within the UAE have established their own protocols and regulations aimed at safeguarding the well-being of expectant mothers during this pivotal period.
Given the UAE's status as a melting pot of cultures and nationalities, it's not uncommon for soon-to-be parents to journey back to their home countries or nations of citizenship for the birth of their child. Additionally, pregnant individuals residing in the UAE may find themselves traveling abroad for personal reasons, such as vacations or family gatherings. In response, local airlines have implemented specific guidelines to ensure the safety of pregnant travelers during these significant journeys.
For clarity on when it's permissible to travel, particularly towards the later stages of pregnancy, let's delve into the requirements set forth by various airlines operating within the UAE.
Emirates Airlines, for instance, permits passengers who are less than 29 weeks pregnant to book flights as usual, provided they have not encountered any medical complications during their pregnancy. However, travelers entering their 29th week of pregnancy or beyond must present a medical certificate signed by a doctor or midwife affirming their fitness to fly.
This certificate should include essential details such as the anticipated due date, confirmation of the passenger's good health, whether it's a single or multiple pregnancy, the doctor's assurance of an uncomplicated birth, confirmation of fitness for travel, and the latest date of declared fitness for travel. In cases of multiple pregnancies, travel is not permitted after the 32nd week; for single pregnancies, travel is restricted after the 36th week unless deemed necessary due to an emergency, in which case a MEDIF form must be completed.
Similarly, Etihad Airways follows a comparable protocol. Pregnant passengers can travel up to the 28th week without documentation, but beyond that, they may need to provide a medical certificate. For single pregnancies, travel is restricted from the 37th week onward, and for multiple pregnancies, from the 33rd week.
Flydubai and Air Arabia also adhere to similar guidelines, with slight variations in the specific weeks of pregnancy allowed for travel and the documentation required. For instance, Flydubai permits travel up to the 28th week without a medical certificate, while Air Arabia requires all pregnant passengers up to their 35th week to provide a medical certificate.
