UAE fights Covid: Routine PCR tests, a way of life for Abu Dhabi residents to stay safe

Abu Dhabi - Negative PCR result mandatory to gain entry to venues or major events

Until last year, the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was not a widely known test in the UAE Capital outside medical circles. But PCR tests for Covid-19 have now become a way of life for Abu Dhabi residents with several people undergoing regular tests to stay safe.

From entering the emirate of Abu Dhabi to accessing government buildings, visiting schools or attending major events, a negative PCR result is now mandatory to gain entry to venues. Even people who have taken both their Covid vaccine doses are required to show a negative PCR result on the Al Hosn app, and the test has to be taken less than a week prior to the event.

>> How PCR is done

The Covid-19 PCR test is conducted via a nasal swab. The laboratory test is a real-time assessment to detect SARS-CoV-2 or coronavirus. According to medical experts, the PCR test is the “gold standard” test for diagnosing Covid-19 because it’s the most accurate and reliable test.

>> Access only after PCR test

Abu Dhabi authorities had made the Covid-19 negative result mandatory for accessing public offices, events and other public areas as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of everyone. It is also mandatory for federal government employees who have not been vaccinated to undergo a Covid test once every week.

Workers in certain sectors especially those interacting with many people on a daily basis, including hotels, restaurants, recreational areas, health workers, tour guides, taxi drivers and others have to undergo periodical PCR tests as part of Covid-19 protocols.

Parents or visitors wanting to access school premises must present a Covid-19 negative result to be allowed entry. Teachers and administrative staff must also undergo periodical Covid tests, according to guidelines issued by education regulators in Abu Dhabi.

Residents travelling outside the country or those returning to the UAE from vacations also have to present a negative PCR result at the airport.

>> Border restrictions

Since last year, many Abu Dhabi residents had limited their travel to Dubai and other emirates because of the border restrictions as they have to present a Covid negative result at the check points when returning to the Capital.

As per the latest rules, a negative PCR test result received no more than 48 hours prior to travel to Abu Dhabi is required. A negative DPI ( (Diffractive Phase Interferometry) test result received 24 hours prior to travel also allows entry, but it cannot be used to enter two consecutive times.

If an individual stays in Abu Dhabi for more than 48 hours, they will have to take the PCR test on Day 3 of entry, and a second PCR on Day 7, if they remain in the emirate for a week or more. The day of entry to Abu Dhabi is considered Day 1.

>> How PCR tests can be accessed in Abu Dhabi

PCR tests are conducted at several public and private clinics and hospitals in the Capital. Also, Abu Dhabi Health Services Company (Seha) has opened many drive-through screening centres across the emirate.

>> How much does a PCR test cost?

The cost of Covid-19 (PCR) test at public and private clinics is Dh65 for a single run.

The government has also put in place some free Covid-19 screening centres where private company employees can avail of a free test once in every three weeks.

Health authorities are also conducting free screening drives in densely populated areas to identify those infected with the virus so they can be treated quickly.

>> Tests ensure health & safety