Blood is pretty important stuff.
As a result of the pandemic, donations have dipped, so there has been a big push to encourage people across Dubai to donate a bit of the red stuff. Here’s how and where to give blood in the UAE.
With ever-changing travel restrictions and guidance on vaccinations coming out all the time, it can be confusing to know where you stand when it comes to donating blood in Dubai, even for the best-intentioned of people.
We are here to cut through the noise and let you know the current cans and can’ts of where to give blood in the UAE.
Who can give blood?
Anyone in good health between the ages of 18 and 65 is eligible to become a first-time donor. Docs are always sure to give donors a thorough exam before poking a hole in their arm (a minimal prick, trust us) with blood pressure and even timing of breakfast taken into account to ensure they are in good condition to give blood. Be sure to bring your Emirates ID card.
Can I donate if I’ve been vaccinated?
Yes, you certainly can. But you’ll need to wait for seven days after receiving your latest dose to make a donation after your first or second dose. You will need to contact a medical professional regarding giving blood post booster, as there is no set guidance on this as of yet.
How soon after having Covid can I give blood?
According to the DHA, you will need to wait 28 days after you tested positive for Covid before you can donate blood.
How soon after travelling can I give blood?
If you have travelled outside of the UAE, you will need to wait over 14 days before you are able to give blood. If you travelled to a malaria-endemic country, you will need to wait for one month before you are able to give blood.
Who receives my blood?
Donors can make a general donation or a ‘deposit’ for a specific individual. Typically, general donations can be used to help three to four other people, so you know what you’re doing matters. There are eight types of blood, and the demand for each varies. Be sure to check with your doctor to find out yours.
Is it safe and how long does it last?
There is no danger of catching anything nasty while giving blood. All medical supplies are sterile and used just once before being thrown away. Certified technicians attend to donors throughout the procedure which takes approximately 45 minutes from arrival to exit.
How often can I make a donation?
The success of the blood donations programme hinges on regular donations. Fit folk can give blood every 56 days, and are encouraged to do so if their calendar permits. When stocks are low, centres will contact registered donors asking them to come in and top up the blood bank account.
Where can I donate?
The Dubai Blood Donation Centre collects 50% of all blood donations in the UAE, so it goes without saying that you’re in safe hands here. To make a donation or find out more about the procedure, call (04 219 3221) or visit www.dha.gov.ae, where you’ll find everything you need to know.
In Abu Dhabi, visit The Abu Dhabi Blood Bank, in the Khalidiya area of Abu Dhabi City. There’s also the Al Ain Regional Blood Bank, located in the Al Jimi area. Both are open six days a week. For more visit www.legacy.seha.ae.
In Sharjah, the Blood Transfusion and Research Centre on Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road is also receiving donations (06 558 2111), while Fujairah Hospital can be reached on 09 224 2999, and Sakr Hospital in Ras al Khaimah likewise on (07 222 3666).
Al Ain Regional Blood Bank is located in the Al Jimi (03 707 4567) and Umm Al Quwain blood bank is based out of Umm Al Quwain Hospital (06 706 0500).
