Four new Dh50 Covid-19 test centres open in UAE, two of them in Dubai

Four new rapid Covid-19 testing facilities have been opened in Dubai, Fujairah and Ras Al Khaimah that will perform laser tests for residents looking to enter Abu Dhabi. The UAE's capital requires a Covid-negative test result for residents and visitors to enter.

The Abu Dhabi Health Services Company (Seha) on Sunday announced that the new centres, including two in Dubai's Rashid Port and Al Khawaneej area, conduct tests using a DPI laser-based technology that produces results within five minutes. Four such centres are operational in Abu Dhabi.

Those wishing to get themselves tested will need to make an appointment through Seha's phone app. According to officials, only those who test negative for Covid-19 are given the result that allows them to enter Abu Dhabi within 48 hours from the time of testing.

"In case the DPI result requires an applicant to take a PCR test, he/she will need to take it at the same centre for Dh320," said authorities, adding that the person will be advised to stay at home until the test result is out.
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Officials said the DPI testing can only be done for those aged above 12 years.

According to the Seha, residents and visitors wanting to do the laser test must present their original Emirates ID to officials at the testing facility along with the QR code for the appointment.

Seha's app allows pre-booking of an appointment for an individual or for a group of three persons. A maximum of five per family including domestic help can also get pre-bookings.

A Covid-negative result is mandatory to enter Abu Dhabi. The negative test results must be shown to the authorities at the border via AlHosn app or as a text message from any hospital or screening centre in the UAE affiliated to the National Screening Programme.

The first rapid Covid-19 testing facility was opened in July on the Abu Dhabi-Dubai border near the Ghantoot checkpoint. The facilities have eased up commute between Abu Dhabi and other emirates ever since it was launched.

ismail@khaleejtimes.com

• Abu Dhabi

Ismail Sebugwaawo

ismail@khaleejtimes.com