Rapid coronavirus screening facility for people entering Abu Dhabi

A rapid-testing facility for the coronavirus, which produces results within five minutes, has been opened up in Abu Dhabi to screen people entering the emirate without a Covid-negative-result.

The facilty, which operates in a tent, was launched on Sunday. It is located near the last exit of the Sheikh Zayed Road (Dubai-Abu Dhabi road) before the Ghantoot border check point.

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The Abu Dhabi Emergency, Crisis and Disasters Committee and the Department of Health said they have implemented the laser-based DPI technique to facilitate entry into the emirate. 

Travellers to the Emirate of Abu Dhabi can be screened for COVID-19 upon entry by a laser-based DPI technique. A negative result will allow entry to #AbuDhabi, while a positive result will lead to further testing through a PCR test. pic.twitter.com/2XiVVqgNNP

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"Travellers to the Emirate of Abu Dhabi can be screened for COVID-19 upon entry by a laser-based DPI technique. A negative result will allow entry to Abu Dhabi, while a positive result will lead to further testing through a PCR test," said a statement issued by the Abu Dhabi Media Office on Tuesday morning.

"Those who undergo a PCR test must return to their residence and avoid contact with others until their results are available. Meanwhile, travellers with a negative result of the usual COVID-19 test will continue to be allowed entry within 48 hours from receiving the result."

The test costs Dh50.

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

.@mohapuae adopted a device developed by #AbuDhabi-based QuantLase Imaging Lab to mass screen potential COVID-19 cases. The laser-based DPI technique can detect virus-caused inflammation in blood samples within seconds. pic.twitter.com/qqFeIzqRG9

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According to authorities, travellers with a negative Covid-19 test result will continue to be allowed to enter the emirate within 48 hours from receiving the result. 

The public has been encouraged to plan ahead and undergo tests in advance as much as possible to avoid any potential delays.

The new facility works 24/7 to serve people entering the emirate and doesn't require pre-booking.

Test results are obtained within minutes and the person is given a certificate which they can present to authorities to be allowed entry to Abu Dhabi if they get negative results. Test results can also be sent through the AlHosn app.

ismail@khaleejtimes.com