More COVID-19 rapid screening centres opened with Dhs50 per test

A Dhs50 laser test that can be used to enter Abu Dhabi emirate is now available at a dozen testing centres across the UAE. Above, visitors at Laser Screening Center in Al Jurf, Ajman.

The new COVID-19 testing centre in Ajman has 20 laser screening booths and can receive between 6,000 and 8,000 people per day.

Centre is the first of its kind in the Northern Emirates, and will serve the citizens and residents of the region, especially those in Ajman, while operating round-the-clock.

Residents in the Northern Emirates can now visit the new COVID-19 testing centre in Ajman and receive their results in only three minutes.

When visiting the screening center, a small blood sample will be taken and then tested using the laser-based DPI with results appearing in minutes.

In case of a positive result, a PCR test must be undertaken via a nasal swab at the same centre at a cost of Dh320. The person must then stay at home in isolation until the test result is available.

If the test result shows that a nose swab is required, it will be done right away and the person will need to isolate himself until the result is out.

In order to get tested at a Seha-run rapid testing facility, residents and visitors have to book an appointment via the Seha app. Appointments are available for individuals, groups up to three people, and families groups with domestic workers up to five people.

According to details on the Seha app, DPI laser screening are only available for those aged 12 years and older. Those who wish to be tested must present their Emirates ID, along with the QR code associated with the Seha appointment booking.

The Ghantoot rapid testing centre has seen massive demand for its services since its opening, and has undertaken 6,500 tests per day. This prompted officials to launch additional facilities across the country.

The technique, known as Diffractive Phase Interferometry (DPI), looks for specific inflammation markers caused by COVID-19 infection in a sample.

Innovative test is different from PCR and antibody test, and gives faster, accurate result.

Vistors at the Laser Screening Center in Al Jurf, Ajman.

A worker sanitising a chair at the Laser Screening Center in Al Jurf, Ajman.