UAE updates COVID-19 procedures for close contacts March 25

The UAE has updated its procedures for those who have been in close contact with someone who tests positive for COVID-19, effective Friday March 25.

The National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority (NCEMA), in coordination with its strategic partners in the health sector, announced that those in close contact cases will now need to do a PCR test on the first and seventh days, or when the contact starts showing symptoms of COVID-19. The change was announced on March 25, and came into effect the same day.

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In the previous update, those in close contact cases were required to get PCR tests every day for five days.

Abu Dhabi recently lowered the standard price of a PCR test to Dhs40. It was previously Dhs50.

Prior to the close contact update, Abu Dhabi changed its entry requirements for unvaccinated visitors. Tourists, non-vaccinated and partially vaccinated can now get green status on Al Hosn app. Effective March 17, the Abu Dhabi Emergency, Crisis and Disasters Committee announced that non-vaccinated visitors will need a negative 48-hour PCR test result to attend events, tourist attractions and cultural sites in the emirate.

Tourists and unvaccinated or partially vaccinated individuals can now obtain the green status on #Alhosn app! For more information about the updated protocols, please visit the support center on your Alhosn app. pic.twitter.com/AdTs3khXAR
— Al Hosn App (@AlHosnApp) March 24, 2022

If you’re unvaccinated but have a 48-hour negative PCR test, you will get green status so you will be able to enter public spaces in Abu Dhabi.

There have been many UAE COVID-19 protocol changes in recent weeks, including updates to entry requirements, changes for travellers, to face mask procedures and to Abu Dhabi borders.

Fri March 25.