Coronavirus: Abu Dhabi updates border entry rules

New entry requirements will come into force on Sunday

Nearly 6,000 people are tested at the Ghantoot laser centre every day. Antonie Robertson / The National

Medics at the Ghantoot testing centre on the border between Dubai and Abu Dhabi use a laser technique to scan a blood sample for signs of surging red blood cells, which is an early sign the body is fighting off a virus. Antonie Robertson / The National

A medic testing a commuter for Covid-19. Antonie Robertson / The National

The results of the Diffractive Phase Interferometry test, or DPI, which detects viral presence in the blood, including Covid-19, are received in minutes via a text message. Antonie Robertson / The National

The test costs Dh50 and is very quick compared with the PCR test that can take time to get a result. Antonie Robertson / The National

The facility was set up to allow commuters who require a negative Covid-19 test to enter Abu Dhabi. Those with negative results can continue their journey. Antonie Robertson / The National

Officials in Abu Dhabi said new guidelines for entering the emirate will come into effect on Sunday.

Residents travelling into the capital from other emirates must have a negative PCR nasal swab or DPI blood test result received within the past 48 hours.

In late December, officials had extended the validity period of the Covid-19 test from 48 hours – which had been in place for several months – to 72 hours.

Further tests will be mandatory on day four, when staying in Abu Dhabi for four or more days, and on day eight, when staying for eight or more consecutive days.

The procedures will apply to all UAE residents, except those who were inoculated as part of the national vaccination programme or were volunteers in Covid-19 clinical trials.

Anyone who has been fully vaccinated and has an activated E or star on their Al Hosn app can enter the emirate without need for another test. Entry to Abu Dhabi is granted without a new test so long as the icons are visible. To activate these icons, a vaccinated person must undergo a PCR test at least once a week.

Abu Dhabi Emergency, Crisis and Disasters Committee said the new guidance was in line with efforts to curb the spread of Covid-19.

Restrictions on entry to Abu Dhabi have been in force since June 2 to stem the spread of the coronavirus. A permit system previously allowed people to enter in some circumstances.