Abu Dhabi Updates Entry Rules, New Validity For PCR, DPI Tests

by Vaishnavi Venkataraman
Abu Dhabi Updates Entry Rules, New Validity For PCR, DPI Tests

The UAE has bounced back to normalcy, but with strict restrictions. In terms of the nation, the capital – Abu Dhabi is taking one step at a time to combat covid-19. Abu Dhabi police had earlier had made it mandatory for residents, tourists and citizens entering Abu Dhabi to show Emirates ID, and Covid-19 certificates. However, the requirements for entering the capital city has changed once again. The new rule will be applicable from 1 February 2021. Read on to know more.

Residents Entering Abu Dhabi Must Take A PCR Or DPI Test

Residents and citizens entering the emirate must produce a negative PCR test taken 48 hours before entry. Alternatively, a negative DPI test taken 24 hours before arrival will also be accepted.

In addition, a second PCR test must be taken on day four for those staying more than four days and on day eight, for those staying in the capital for more than eight days. Alternatively, residents can also take a DPI test on day three for those staying for 48 hours or more. An additional PCR DPI test must be done on day seven, for those staying for more than seven days in the capital.

The procedures apply to all UAE residents, except those vaccinated in the national vaccination programmes. Volunteers in Phase III vaccine clinical trials whose status is active (letter ‘E’ or gold star) on the Alhosn app are also exempt from the new rule.

The authorities are quite serious about these tests and have announced that people who fail to follow the new rules will be liable for fines. The new procedures are effective from 1 February.

Those arriving internationally from countries on the green list are required to take a PCR test on arrival and again on day six in the country but do not need to quarantine. Those arriving from all other countries must quarantine for ten days and get a PCR test on day eight to end quarantine on day ten.

Also read: Abu Dhabi Students Of All Levels To Attend School From January 2021

Besides this, the latest guidelines also state that all residents will have to install Al Hosn mobile app to easily show test results and help monitor the spread of COVID-19. For the measures, they have introduced to enhance preventative measures for the early detection of COVID-19.

Also read: UAE Frontline Workers Can Enjoy FREE Entry To Qasr Al Hosn & Louvre Abu Dhabi Until April 2021

Volunteers in the covid-19 vaccine trials are exempt from these regulations. While entering the capital, the volunteers will have to use the emergency vehicle lanes when entering Abu Dhabi.

First Published: January 30, 2021 7:05 AM