Abu Dhabi: Only Individuals With ‘Covid-19 Vaccinated’ Status Will Be Allowed In Public Places

by Vaishnavi Venkataraman
Abu Dhabi: Only Individuals With ‘Covid-19 Vaccinated’ Status Will Be Allowed In Public Places

Abu Dhabi has new COVID-19 rules in place. Only individuals with ‘Covid-19 Vaccinated’ status and green status on their Alhosn will be allowed to public places in Abu Dhabi from August 20. However, this rule is not applicable to those who have received an exemption from vaccine requirements. Any fully vaccinated individual can get a green status on the application for 30 days after sgaring a negative PCR test result. However, vaccinated status will be invalid after six months of taking the jab. To keep vaccination status active, one must take a booster shot in six months.

Only Residency visa-holders Are Eligible For The Vaccine

Previously, it was announced that tourists in Abu Dhabi are eligible for free covid vaccination. However, the Abu Dhabi Government Media Office later clarified and said that the free vaccine is available to everyone with an expired residency visa or expired entry visa, which does not include holders of valid tourist or visit visas. However, those opting to be vaccinated need to have a local phone number to register on the app. Alternatively, visit visa holders can also book appointments by calling 800 50.

“Abu Dhabi Emergency, Crisis and Disasters Committee has issued a reminder that free Covid-19 vaccines are available to everyone with an expired residency visa or expired entry visa, which does not include holders of valid tourist or visit visas,” Abu Dhabi Government Media Office said.

On 11 June, Abu Dhabi announced free Covid-19 vaccines to everyone who has an expired residency or entry visa, for their safety and health, and in consideration of the exceptional circumstances resulting from the pandemic. Until recently, a valid Emirates ID or valid residency visa was mandatory in order to register for the vaccination. However, now anyone with any valid identity document will be eligible to get the covid vaccine.

The move was done to mainly benefit those who had lost their jobs and have had their visas of any type expired amid the pandemic crisis. The UAE has vaccinated more than 87 per cent of the total eligible population.

Everything You Need To Know About UAE’s Covid Vaccine Booster Shot

UAE aims to vaccinate its entire eligible adult population by year-end, and for that, the country has also approved Sinopharm booster shots for its residents. And with the introduction of a booster shot, UAE is also one of the few countries to make the third dose of covid vaccine available. If you are still unsure of this and don’t know much about the booster shot, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Here’s everything you must know about UAE’s covid booster shot.

What is a booster shot?

A booster shot is an extra covid vaccine shot that will be needed after the second dose of the vaccine. It will give more protection against covid-19 and is for everyone.

Who all need a booster shot?

The booster shot is necessary for everyone to retain their immunity against the novel coronavirus. The boosters are especially advised for the vulnerable group and children. Senior citizens and people with chronic health issues need a booster shot too. It will protect them from complications that may lead to death.

Covid Vaccine UAE
Pic Credit: Soza Clinic

For how long does the immunity against covid-19 last for a vaccinated person?

At present, one can’t give an exact time frame; hence, taking a booster shot after the second jab is a safer option to maintain the antibody levels against coronavirus. Everyone reacts differently to covid- some have great antibodies built, while others don’t have enough antibodies to keep them safe in the long run.

When can UAE-ites take a booster shot?

UAE residents can take a booster shot six months after they take their second dose. For the same, priority will be given to those with chronic health conditions and senior citizens.

Are the booster shots safe?

Well, the vaccine given for protection from the covid-19 virus has proven to be safe, so there’s no harm in getting a booster shot as well. A booster shot will increase your immunity and help you fight the virus.