Travel to Abu Dhabi easily after visiting these test centres
UAE is one of the first countries in the world, which bounced back to near normal life thanks to the government’s timely efforts to control the spread of the virus. However, despite successfully flattening the curve and restricting the rampant spread of the disease, the government continues to enforce strict SOPs and conduct extensive testing to identify and isolate impacted patients. Abu Dhabi’s Health Services Company (SEHA) has opened up ‘Dh50 Covid-19 test centres’, which enables them to find potential cases quickly. Anyone planning to enter the city has to get tested at these centres before being allowed in as per the Abu Dhabi entry rules.
DH50 COVID-19 TEST CENTRES: THE TECHNOLOGY USED
In mid-July, the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHaP) announced the introduction of DPI technology (Diffractive Phase Interferometry) to examine COVID-19 cases. This laser-based technology-empowered health authorities to conduct large scale screening in a matter of minutes. A person can simply sit in a car, clean his or her finger with an alcohol swab, and then have their blood tested.
This testing works as the first step to identify any suspected cases of infection. If needed, the individual has to undergo a Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) swab tests too. This technology is a low cost, non-invasive and user-friendly alternative to the more widely used PCR test.
DH50 COVID-19 TEST CENTRES LOCATIONS
The first DH50 COVID-19 test centre was opened at the Ghantoot checkpoint on the last exit on Sheikh Zayed Road (Dubai-Abu Dhabi border). Since then a number of DH50 COVID-19 test centres have opened up in Abu Dhabi and other emirates.
The three centres in Abu Dhabi are located in Zayed Sports City, Corniche area, and Hili area in Al Ain. Residents who need to travel to the other emirates can do the test in Abu Dhabi itself if they are coming back to the emirate within 48 hours. This can help them avoid any unforeseen challenges when they want to return home.
Similarly, two centres were also opened in Dubai. They are located in the Port Rashid area and Al Khwaneej area.
In addition to these cheaper COVID-19 testing centres, there are also centres in Fujairah and Ras Al Khaimah as well.
WHO NEEDS TESTING?
As per the entry rules to Abu Dhabi, any individual aged 12 or older, who wishes to enter the emirate of Abu Dhabi has to be screened for COVID-19. This also applies to people who are leaving Abu Dhabi for a short period and plan to come back within 48 hours. They can get themselves tested and return to their home without any issues.
HOW TO GET TESTED FOR CORONAVIRUS?
You have to book an appointment via the SEHA smart app or call their customer service executives on 800-1717. When you visit the centre, the staff will check your original Emirates ID and the QR code before carrying on with the test. People who receive a negative test will be allowed to enter Abu Dhabi within 48 hours of testing. As the name suggests, the cost per DPI test is AED 50.
These DH50 COVID-19 test centres in Abu Dhabi are open from 08:00 am to 08:00 pm. The testing centres in the other emirates work from 10:00 am to 08:00 pm.
WHAT HAPPENS IF SOMEONE TESTS POSITIVE?
If the DPI test is positive, then it is mandatory to conduct a PCR (nose swab) test. It will take place at the same DH50 COVID-19 test centre. The cost per PCR test has been reduced to AED 250. The results of this test are received within 24 hours. Until then, the person is requested to stay at home and quarantine.
These newly opened DH50 COVID-19 test centre offer a convenient and cost-effective way for residents of the UAE to get tested and travel to Abu Dhabi.
There are some other centres where you can get tested for coronavirus in Dubai.
If you feel any symptoms, it might be a good idea to self-isolate and get your self tested. You have to be a responsible adult to help the government fight this pandemic.
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