Blood, that red gooey stuff that floats around inside us all day, is important stuff.
Without it we’d be pretty stuffed (think turkeys on Thanksgiving), which is why making regular blood donations is so vital.
Here is everything you need to know about giving blood in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah.
Who can give blood?
Anyone in good health between the ages of 18 and 65 are eligible to become first-time donors. 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 second dose to make a donation.
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 collected 50 percent 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 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 seha.ae/bloodbank.
For blood donations 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 (037074567) and Umm Al Quwain blood bank is based out of Umm Al Quwain Hospital (067060500).
