UAE to Open Drive Thru Medical Test Centers Over the Next 10 Days

Last Saturday (March 28), the UAE opened a mobile COVID-19 Test Center to support the country’s relentless efforts to contain the spread of coronavirus.

Also Read: HH Sheikh Mohamed reassures residents: UAE is able to “provide all required food” medical supplies continuously and infinitely”

The new center, which was developed by Abu Dhabi Health Services Company-SEHA, was inaugurated on Saturday by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces.

sheikh mohamed orders launch of test centers uae
Image: WAM

HH Sheikh Mohamed Orders Launch of Drive-Thru Test Centers Over the Next 10 Days

Sheikh Mohamed, upon visiting the newly opened first Covid-19 testing center in the country, has instructed the Department of Health- Abu Dhabi to set up drive-through centers across the UAE to test for Coronavirus “COVID-19,” following the launch of the first such center in Abu Dhabi, as shared in a report by the UAE state news agency, WAM.

The directive authorizes the department to activate various test centers over the next 10 days in Dubai, Sharjah (which will also serve Ajman and Umm al Qaiwain), Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra, to provide fast-paced tests for citizens and residents across the UAE using the latest medical technology.

Meanwhile, the recently launched first mobile test facility is dedicated for testing individuals for coronavirus, as part of the country’s precautionary measures to address the spread of COVID-19 in the UAE.

According to the department’s protocols for screening, patients will need to book an appointment first.

How to Book an Appointment

  • Patients interested to undergo screening at the center will need to book an appointment through Estijaba 8001717.
  • As part of the appointment-setting process, patients will then be asked to participate in a pre-assessment screening, where they would need to answer questions related to their condition.
  • Following the pre-screening, people who are suspected of having contracted the virus and those who are most vulnerable, such as the elderly, pregnant women or people with chronic diseases will be given priority and free access to the services of the facility.
  • Meanwhile, for the rest of the community who wish to be tested for reassurance only, the procedure will cost them AED 370.  

Where can I find the testing center in Abu Dhabi?

The first Covid-19 mobile testing center is located at the Zayed Sports City and is open on weekdays from 8 am to 8 pm. 

How long will the test take?

The drive-thru test will involve taking a nasal swab sample at the first stage of the screening. Results will be released within 5 minutes. The mobile testing center can accommodate up to 600 people daily.   

As for the other testing centers soon to be opened, further information regarding the contact details of the new centers and appointment procedures will be announced ahead of the opening.

The initiative highlights the UAE leadership’s commitment to providing all citizens and residents with the facilities needed to combat COVID-19 and curb its spread.

With the opening of the additional testing centers in the UAE, the number of cases in the country is expected to go further up, but this will also allow health professionals and government authorities to address the situation accordingly. 

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