A Dh50 laser test that can be used to enter Abu Dhabi emirate is now available at a dozen testing centres across the UAE.
The diffractive phase interferometry (DPI) test offers commuters travelling to Abu Dhabi a cheaper and faster way to enter the capital, which requires a negative Covid-19 to cross the border.
The rapid blood test does not confirm if someone has Covid-19 – but does show whether the person's red blood cells are surging to fight off an illness.
Following directions from the Abu Dhabi Emergency, Crisis & Disasters Committee for Covid-19 Pandemic, and in coordination with @DoHSocial, laser-based DPI testing is available across the #UAE. pic.twitter.com/SeQnnSNnvz
— مكتب أبوظبي الإعلامي (@admediaoffice) August 22, 2020
It will now be available at many drive-through screening facilities that previously only offered the PCR nasal swab tests for Dh370.
Medics at those centres will now also provide the five-minute, cheaper test.
On Saturday, authorities said the DPI test could be taken at three locations in Abu Dhabi (Zayed Sports City, Cornice, Laser Screening Centre in Ghantoot), Al Ain (Al Hili Wedding Hall, Al Hili), Dubai (Mina Rashed, Al Khawaneej) and across the Northern Emirates (Sharjah Golf and Shooting Club, Emirates Hospitality Centre in Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah and in Fujairah).
The centres are run by either Abu Dhabi Health Services Company (Seha) or Tomouh Healthcare.
Appointments must be booked in advance on a dedicated website for Ghantoot, Al Hili Wedding Centre and Ajman.
All other locations can be booked using the Seha app.
The new locations will take the pressure of the first centre at Ghantoot, near the Abu Dhabi-Dubai border, which has previously been booked up weeks in advance.
The centre at Ghantoot processes about 6,000 drivers per day.
Anyone who fails the test is not permitted entry and is taken aside and asked to undergo a PCR test for Covid-19.
The test is valid for 48 hours and only used to cross the border.
