UAE sets up drive-thru coronavirus testing facility in Abu Dhabi

Local media has announced that a mobile COVID-19 test centre was opened in Abu Dhabi yesterday, in the UAE’s latest effort to contain the spread of the coronavirus. The mobile test facility is solely dedicated to testing individuals for the illness that’s caused 30,000 deaths around the world, mostly among the elderly and younger people with pre-existing conditions.

The test takes about 5 minutes and the drive-thru mobile centre is located at Zayed Sports City in Abu Dhabi. It is open from 8 am to 8 pm daily and will be serving up to 600 people daily.

To get tested at the facility, you need to book an appointment through Estijaba by calling 8001717. You will be asked to participate in a pre-assessment screening, where you would need to answer questions about your health.

Following the pre-screening, people who are suspected of having contracted the virus and those who are most vulnerable — namely the elderly, pregnant women or people with chronic diseases — will be prioritised. The test will be free for these individuals.

Show up on the day and time of your appointment with your Emirates ID. For people who are not in the vulnerable bracket but want to get examined for reassurance only, the testing procedure will cost Dhs 370.

You can also get tested at your nearest government health centre or call the Department of Health at 8001717.