Dubai added to Scotland's travel quarantine list

Travellers arriving in Scotland from Dubai now have to self-isolate for 10 days, the Scottish Government has said. 

The change, which came into effect from 4am, has been attributed to a number of coronavirus cases identified in passengers who have flown into Glasgow from the destination since the new year. 

Passengers who have travelled into the country from Dubai since January 3 have also been asked to isolate for 10 days, from the day they arrived in the country. 

Failure to comply with the requirement to quarantine can result in a fine of more than £480.

Guidance remains that people should not be undertaking foreign travel, other than in exceptional circumstances, the government added. 

Transport secretary Michael Matheson said: "It is evident, both in Scotland and in countries across the world, that the virus continues to pose real risks to health and to life and we need to interrupt the rise in cases.

"Imposing quarantine requirements on those arriving in the UK is our first defence in managing the risk of imported cases from communities with high risks of transmission. That is why we have made the decision to remove Dubai from the country exemptions list.

"Whether or not an overseas destination has been designated for quarantine restrictions, our message remains clear that people should not currently be undertaking non-essential foreign travel. 

"People need to stay at home to help suppress the virus, protect our NHS and save lives."