Covid in UAE: Abu Dhabi updates cost of PCR test

The Department of Health - Abu Dhabi has updated the cost of PCR test conducted in the capital

To get a PCR test done, residents will now have to pay Dh40 across all medical facilities in the Emirate.

The decision will be effective from March 1, 2022.

Earlier, the cost of getting a PCR test was priced at Dh50 in the capital, with free test facility for some residents.

The reduction in cost comes two days after the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority (NCEMA) updated several Covid-19 regulations for residents, government employees and visitors in the city.

According to the update, the Al Hosn green pass would not be needed to enter Abu Dhabi from today (February 28).

However, Abu Dhabi residents and visitors to the Emirate, who wish to enter public places, tourist attractions, commercial centres and buildings or attend events, must maintain the green code on their Al Hosn app.

A ‘green pass’ is still required to enter public spaces in Abu Dhabi. A fully vaccinated individual can obtain a green status on Al Hosn app after getting a negative PCR test result. The green colour remains active for 14 days.

So, an individual needs to take a PCR test every two weeks to make themselves eligible to enter public places in Abu Dhabi.

Wearing mask outdoor is now optional

The Abu Dhabi Media Office also tweeted that EDE scanners that inspect commuters for Covid-19 symptoms would also be removed from the check points. However, the green pass system will still be needed to gain access to public places in the Emirate.

According to the new guidelines, wearing of face masks in outdoor spaces is now optional, although wearing of face masks in indoor spaces is still required, and physical distancing must still be observed.

Reduced precautionary measures

According to the new announcement made on February 26, those affected with Covid-19 do not need to wear wrist bands during home quarantine.

The quarantine rule is also removed for those in contact with Covid patients, but they will have to undergo daily Covid PCR tests for five consecutive days.

Increase in operating capacity

In tourist destinations and commercial premises, the committee approved an increase in operating capacity to 90 per cent.

At events, the committee has approved an increase in operating capacity to 90 per cent. Wearing of face masks in outdoor spaces is now optional, although wearing of face masks in indoor spaces is still required.

PCR tests for entry, along with green pass, are still required for entry, and physical distancing must still be observed.

At private events, the committee has approved an increase in operating capacity to 90 per cent.

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