Introduction
The Department of Health in Abu Dhabi, in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Health Services Company (SEHA), has launched the first COVID-19 testing center in the country, located at the Zayed Sports City. This facility allows citizens and residents of the UAE to undergo testing within five minutes, with results delivered via SMS and the SEHA app. Through this initiative, the UAE has become the fifth country in the world to offer drive-through testing services, enhancing and expediting the testing process for its residents.
Officials' Statements
His Excellency Sheikh Abdullah bin Mohammed Al Hamed, Chairman of the Department of Health - Abu Dhabi, stated: “The establishment of the new drive-through testing center comes at the directive of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces. This reflects their commitment to providing all citizens and residents with the necessary facilities to combat COVID-19 and mitigate its impact.”
Services Offered at the Center
The drive-through testing facility operates from 8 AM to 8 PM for both holders and non-holders of the Tawakkalna card, with the capacity to conduct 600 tests per day.
How to Book an Appointment
As part of the testing process, individuals wishing to get tested must book an appointment in advance by calling the Response Center at 8001717. Interested parties will need to participate in a preliminary screening by answering questions related to their health condition prior to the final test.
Priority Testing
Priority will be given to the elderly, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic diseases, who will be tested free of charge. For those wishing to undergo the test for reassurance, the cost is 370 AED.
