Boost your protection – How to get a COVID-19 booster shot in Dubai
Dubai Health Authority has begun administering Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine booster doses for adults. The initiative comes after the Ministry of Health and Prevention Adults announced a one jab booster programme in light of the continuing threat of COVID-19, especially new emerging strains.
Boosters were previously only available to those with health issues, those over the age of 50 and those who received the Sinopharm vaccine early in the immunisation programme. But now, all fully vaccinated people, aged 18 and over, can get the third jab. Read on to find out all about the COVID-19 booster shots in Dubai.
ABOUT THE COVID-19 BOOSTER SHOTS
According to the preliminary information from the World Health Organization, the latest variant of COVID-19, Omicron, is a major genetic mutation that modifies the virus’s properties to make it faster-spreading.
Although research is underway to find out the severity of the new strain, the UAE government has advised everyone, especially senior citizens, those with chronic diseases and people of determination, to take the booster dose as soon as possible.
An effective vaccine booster campaign could be more crucial as the global travel sector prepares for one of the busiest holiday seasons in recent years.
ELIGIBILITY FOR THE BOOSTER JAB
According to the Dubai Health Authority, people who took two doses of Pfizer-BioNTech can book a third shot. Apart from Pfizer booster shot Dubai, residents who have taken Oxford-Astrazeneca and Sputnik V are also eligible for the booster.
CENTRES FOR COVID-19 BOOSTER SHOTS IN DUBAI
The DHA has designated eight locations in Dubai to provide the COVID-19 vaccination booster Dubai. To get the third dose from any of these centres, you must make an appointment ahead of time:
- Za’abeel Health Centre
- Al Mizhar Health Centre
- Al Barsha Health Centre
- Nad Al Hamar Health Centre
- Albiet Metwahid Hall in Al Warqa
- Al Garhoud Medical Fitness Centre
- Al Karama Medical Fitness Centre
HOW TO GET COVID-19 BOOSTER SHOTS IN DUBAI
To get the 3rd dose of the COVID-19 vaccine in Dubai, appointments can be made through the Dubai Health Authority app or via Whatsapp. You can also call the DHA for booking.
BOOKING THROUGH THE APP
Steps to book an appointment through the DHA App are:
- On the app’s homepage, click on “Book COVID-19 Vaccine”.
- Carefully read the guidelines and then click ”Proceed to Book Appointment”.
- Choose your vaccination centre of choice and select ”Book Appointment”.
- Choose the date and time for your COVID-19 booster vaccination.
- Confirm booking.
BOOKING VIA WHATSAPP
The scheduling of the COVID-19 vaccine booster appointment via Whatsapp includes the following steps:
- Save the number 800 342 to your phone’s contacts.
- Send a “Hello” message to it using Whatsapp.
- After that, you can choose your preferred language and option three to schedule a vaccination.
- Before attaching your medical record number, or MRN, to your WhatsApp account, you will be prompted to agree to a disclaimer.
- You will receive a text with a verification code.
- Respond with “MRN linked” once the process is complete.
- Confirm MRN or add another.
- Choose the booster centre near you and the preferred time and date.
You can get your MRN by entering an Emirates ID number on the DHA website.
CALL DHA FOR BOOKING
Alternatively, you can arrange an appointment by calling DHA’s toll-free number 800 342 and following the voice prompts.
Note, you need to bring your Emirates ID to the vaccination centre, while Dubai visa holders must also bring their passport and Dubai visa copy. UAE residence visa holders living in Dubai should show proof of residence as well.
FAQS
Is it necessary for everyone to travel with a booster?
Not yet, but that is expected to change in early 2022 as more countries restrictions go from fully vaccinated to fully vaccinated with a third booster vaccine.
Should there be a time gap between getting the flu vaccination and getting the COVID-19 booster dose?
There is no need to wait between getting the flu shot and getting the booster shot.
Are there any exceptions for people who had a Pfizer shot after receiving the Sinopharm vaccine?
Residents of the UAE who have had a Pfizer dose following two Sinopharm injections are not obliged to have a booster shot at this time.
Are women who are pregnant or nursing eligible for the COVID-19 booster shots in Dubai?
Yes, the booster is safe for pregnant and nursing women.
How much does the booster cost?
Please note that all COVID-19 vaccines in the UAE, including the booster, are free of charge.
Like the initial vaccinations in the UAE, getting COVID-19 boosters shots in the UAE is extremely important. The UAE government has also emphasised the importance of adhering to preventive measures including wearing masks, regularly washing hands and maintaining a physical distancing.
Many countries worldwide, particularly those in the Gulf, have imposed travel restrictions to protect public health. Follow the rules for vaccinated residents in Dubai and other emirates to curb the spread of the COVID-19 strain.
