COVID-19: Abu Dhabi has new rules for entering emirate

Dubai: Abu Dhabi updated its protocols for visitors and residents on Friday. The move is in line with the emirate’s efforts in curbing the spread of the novel coronavirus that has so far infected more than 26 million people worldwide.

Abu Dhabi Emergency, Crisis and Disasters Committee announced that starting Saturday, i.e. September 5, residents and visitors can enter the emirate of Abu Dhabi within 48 hours of receiving a negative PCR or DPI test result.

DPI test results no longer require a prior PCR test.

A PCR test, short for Polymerase Chain Reaction, is conducted using a nasal swab and used to amplify the DNA sample and then detect specific antigens.

A DPI (Diffractive Phase Interferometry) test, on the other hand, is a laser-based test that uses blood samples to examine the virus. It allows the health authorities to carry out large-scale screening within a few seconds.

Earlier, a person had to undergo both tests to be allowed into Abu Dhabi.

Abu Dhabi Emergency, Crisis and Disasters Committee also said that residents and visitors who enter and stay for over six consecutive days within Abu Dhabi must now take a PCR test on the sixth day of each visit, in order to protect the health and safety of the community.