UAE Introduces a Drive-Through Coronavirus Testing System

3 Apr 2020 / Covid-19

The UAE recently crossed 6000+ cases and the government introduced a ‘Coronavirus Drive-Through Testing’ system for the accessibility of the residents where people can undergo tests from the comfort of their cars. The first one popped open in Zayed Sports City in Abu Dhabi. Here are the other locations in Abu Dhabi:

Ghayathi, Al Dhafra (Timing: Saturday to Thursday, 8am to 12 noon and 4pm to 8pm)

Madinat Zayed, Al Dhafra (Timing: Saturday to Thursday, 8am to 8pm)

Al Wathba (Timing: Sunday to Thursday, 8am to 8pm)

Asharej – Al Ain (Timing Sunday to Thursday, 8am to 8pm)

Al Bahia (Timing: Sunday to Thursday, 8am to 8pm)

Al Hili – Al Ain (Timing Sunday to Thursday, 8am to 8pm)

Zayed Sports City (Timing: Sunday to Thursday, 8am to 8pm)

Dubai:

Al Khawaneej (Timing: Sunday to Thursday, 10am to 6pm)

Port Rashid (Timing: Sunday to Thursday, 10am to 6pm)

Al Nasr Club (Timing: Sunday to Thursday, 8am to 6.30pm)

Other locations operated by Al Futtaim Health Club include: Dubai City Festival, Al Qusais, Silicon Oasis, Discovery Gardens and Al Warqa)

Other Emirates:

Sharjah Golf and Shooting Club, Sharjah (Timing: Sunday to Thursday, 10am to 6pm)

Al Jurf 2, Ajman (Timing: Sunday to Thursday, 10am to 6pm)

Defence Camp, Umm Al Quwain (Timing: Sunday to Thursday, 10am to 6pm)

Dafan Al Khor Centre, Ras Al Khaimah (Timing: 10am to 6pm, Sunday to Thursday)

Near Fujairah Hospital, Fujairah (Timing, 10am to 6pm, Sunday to Thursday)

Can I get tested if I do not have the coronavirus symptoms?

You can get tested if you do not have symptoms however, priority testing is for the elderly, individuals with symptoms, individuals with chronic illnesses and pregnant women are given priority. However, if you do not fall into this category, you can get access to the test by paying.

How does the testing procedure take place?

You drive to the center and tune into radio 98.5. The radio welcomes you with the message, “Abu Dhabi Health Services Company (SEHA) welcomes you to the screening center.” The welcome message is then followed by a list of instructions the first of which is to prepare their Emirates ID. The Id is needed at the registration center which is entered into the machinery after the sanitization of hands. The card ensures that the result of the test conducted is delivered to the specific person. After registering, the individual goes to the screening station where their temperature is taken and a swab test is done.

How long do I wait before the results come?

According to the National, the test takes between 24 and 48 hours to process but the procedure can take up to 7 days. During this time if the individuals feel that they’re infected, they should self-isolate themselves.

What happens if I test positive?

If you test positive, you’ll be contacted by the health authority and help will be offered to treat you in the best manner with the resources available.

How much does the test cost?

The cost of the test for the general public is Dh370.

I’m not sure of my symptoms, what do I do?

Check your symptoms online using Meddy’s free Covid-19 Symptom Checker. It takes two minutes for the results to be displayed on your screen and it is absolutely free.

Do I need to get an appointment before getting tested?

Yes. An appointment prior to visitation has to be made. According to Gulf News, people have to fill an online self-assessment tool on the health hub website and only if they are found to be eligible as per the criteria will they be allowed to take the test.

A medical worker from AHS (Ambulatory Health Care Services) reported that these centers specific to Covid-19 testing are not only for the ease of the residents but they also help eliminate pressure from other hospitals. The center has tested 3000+ people for the virus up till now.