Coronavirus: border rules to enter Abu Dhabi updated from Saturday

Residents or visitors can now enter the emirate with either a negative swab or laser test result from the previous 48 hours

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

Rules for entering Abu Dhabi were updated on Friday evening and will take effect on Saturday.

Residents will need a negative PCR or DPI test result from the previous 48 hours, according to the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority.

The change means the last regulation - that the laser test was no longer accepted alone without the PCR test - has been updated.

“Starting Saturday, September 5th, 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,” the Abu Dhabi government media office tweeted.

“Residents and visitors who stay for six consecutive days or more within Abu Dhabi emirate must now take a PCR test on the sixth day of each visit, in order to protect the health and safety of the community.”

The rapid test costs Dh50, while the PRC swab is typically Dh370.

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