IMPORTANT NOTE, THE INFORMATION IN THIS ARTICLE IS NOW OUT OF DATE – FOR CURRENT LOCATIONS AND PROCEDURES PLEASE CONSULT OUR NEW ARTICLE

DPI tests come back with a result in minutes…

To get into Abu Dhabi, you still currently need a negative Covid test obtained within 72 hours of intended entry to the capital.

The laser DPI testing service has simplified a lot of the timing and logistics of these tests, with results back in minutes.

The Abu Dhabi Emergency, Crisis & Disasters Committee for Covid-19 Pandemic and the Department of Health — Abu Dhabi have co-authored a list of all the current testing sites across the UAE.

Where are they?

There are two locations in Dubai (in Mina Rashed and Al Khawaneej), five in Al Ain and Abu Dhabi, and a further four in the Northern Emirates.

The operating hours in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain are 8am to 8pm Sunday to Thursday (except for the 10am to 10pm centre in Al Hili Wedding Hall that’s open seven days a week).

Centres in Ghantoot and Emirates Hospitality Centre, Ajman are open 24 hours.

Northern Emirate testing centres (excluding the one above) are open seven days a week, 10am to 8pm.

How do I book my test?

For locations operated by Tamouh Healthcare, you can book through the individual Quantlase Lab websites for Ghantoot, Al Hili Wedding Hall, or Ajman. 

The Ghantoot testing centre has recently changed to a drive-through service.

You might also like

20 of Abu Dhabi's best staycation deals
30 of the best happy hour deals in Abu Dhabi

For other locations, you’ll need to book an appointment using the SEHA app, which is available from both Apple and Google Play stores.

Tests cost Dhs50.

What is a DPI test?

DPI lasers, or ‘diffractive phase interferometry’ lasers are capable of measuring minute discrepancies in size. They’re being used in this application to scan for inflammation of blood cells, which is a tell-tale sign of viral infection.

The results are almost immediate.

What can I do in Abu Dhabi?

Once you’re in, there’s a bright world of leisure and entertainment options available to you. Why not check out our list of capital staycation deals, many of which offer you the cost of your DPI test back as part of the government’s Rediscover Abu Dhabi campaign.

Images: Getty/Unsplash