After several slashes for COVID-19 tests, the price at government hospitals has now dropped to AED 150. The reduced price will apply only to DHA primary healthcare centers, hospitals, clinics, and screening centers. Private hospitals and clinics can still state the cost of PCR tests at AED 250, but are not allowed to charge more.
The government noted that to undergo COVID-19 nasal swab tests for a discounted price, residents should turn to SEHA testing centers including Mediclinic, Seha, Medeor Hospital, and LLH Hospital. In its turn, Abu Dhabi also reduced its PCR test prices – tests are now available for AED 180.
This action is taken to make testing more easily accessible for UAE residents. There are some exemptions for people who can undergo tests free of charge in the UAE, including:
DHA noted that free testing is only available every 4 months. Individuals should book a drive-through test on the SEHA app (Apple Store or Google Play) and pay through the app.
To make an appointment, individuals need to bring their Emirates ID along to the testing center. The results are sent via SMS within 24-48 hours.
Novel Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2, also known as COVID-19) is a new strain of coronavirus which is causing illness in humans and animals. Most people infected with the COVID-19 coronavirus will feel mild to moderate respiratory illness and recover without any special treatment. Older people, as well as those with underlying medical problems like cardiovascular disease, chronic respiratory disease, cancer or diabetes, are more likely to develop serious illness, and require immediate assistance. Novel Coronavirus was first identified in a cluster with pneumonia symptoms in Wuhan city, Hubei province of China, quickly spreading around the world. On early March 2020, the coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic had officially started, becoming the defining global health crisis of our time. Today, it is the greatest challenge people have faced since World War II, worsened by subsequent lockdowns of whole countries, collapse of entire industries, and a major economic recession.