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PCR test capped at Dhs50 across most of the UAE

Tests cannot be priced higher and cannot take longer than 24 hours to give a result

by Time Out Editors

The cost of the coronavirus PCR test has been capped at Dhs50 across the UAE.

Clinics are no longer allowed to charge more than that figure, and must also deliver results in no more than 24 hours.

The change comes into effect today (Tuesday August 31) and has been announced by the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention.

The price was previously capped at Dhs65 in Abu Dhabi and Dhs150 in Dubai, with prices varying across the other emirates.

The authorities also announced that tests for all pupils in Abu Dhabi will be free throughout September to ease the return to school.


If you are travelling to Abu Dhabi from Dubai and are fully vaccinated you can now cross the border as long as you have a green pass and an active E star icon on your Al Hosn app. A PCR test is required to show the E/star icon, which remains active for seven days. No further testing is required if staying in the emirate.

All non-vaccinated arrivals need to take a PCR test within 48 hours of entry, or a DPI test within 24 hours of entry, as well as multiple additional tests if remaining in the emirate.

You might like: Getting the booster jab? Here’s everything you need to know

If you have already had your first two doses of the Sinopharm COVID-19 vaccine, you might have heard that a booster shot is also available to help increase your immunity against the virus.

UAE authorities have urged residents to book a COVID-19 booster shot after receiving two doses of the Sinopharm coronavirus vaccine in order to increase immunity and protect public health.

If the last dose of your Sinopharm vaccination was longer than six months ago you will now be required to get a booster vaccine by Monday September 20. Click here to learn more.

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