A PCR test has also become a mandatory service in Dubai, especially among travellers and individuals who want to keep track of their health due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The PCR test is priced at AED 150 and is easily available throughout hospitals, drive thru and home testing services. This guide will offer everything there is to know about a PCR test, where to get one and how to do one in Dubai.
What Is a PCR Test?
Definition of PCR
The Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) PCR is a very specific diagnostic test to detect a specification of genetic material usually the RNA or DNA of the COVID-19 virus. It is the preferred method of detecting COVID-19 the world over because it grows minute inputs of genetic material into levels that are identifiable in a laboratory.
How Does the PCR Test Work?
The use of PCR test normally requires taking a sample through a swab, whether nasal or throat, and the sample is taken to a lab. This is what occurs in the process:
- Sample Collection:A medical specialist will collect a sample by means of a swab of the nasal cavity or the throat.
- Amplification: in the laboratory, the genetic material of the virus (when present) is amplified into levels that reach a recordable value.
- Detection:Lab determines the presence or absence of the virus with reference to the amplified material.
Why Is It So Important?
CR tests are important since they offer very accurate test results that assist in establishing whether an individual was offending or not with the virus despite showing minimal or no signs. This accuracy is what entails PCR tests to be important in eliminating the spread of infectious diseases.
Why Get a PCR Test in Dubai?
Dubai is a global tourism and business center with international traveling being a major occupation, hence PCR testing a major to primary feature of the process of maintaining public health and safety. Here are the most widespread reasons why you may have to take PCR in Dubai.
1. Travel Requirements
Other nations do not allow visitors to enter without a negative PCR confirmation such a condition is applied in many states. The PCR test must usually be completed inside a specific time frame- which is 24 to 72 hours, before the time of travel.
- Check specific requirements: Rules vary between countries, so one should always check the regulations in the country of destination prior to a booking of any test.
- Required documentation:You need to bring in documentation of your test result be it in print or digital form.
2. Health Concerns
In case you have developed symptoms which could be linked to COVID-19 or you already have an acquaintance who has been affected by the condition, then the most accurate method to identify your status is a PCR test.
- Symptoms to watch for: Commonly, fever, cough, and shortness of breath, as well as loss of taste or smell, are its symptoms.
- Exposure risks: All you need is to be exposed to somebody with COVID-19; bear in mind that you may not understand that you are contaminated.
3. Peace of Mind
Occasionally, you may wish to conduct a PCR test In the event you have been in a high-risk area, or because you indeed feel prone to hurting others who are more likely to be harmed by the virus, or because you fear spreading the virus to other unvulnerable people.
- For family gatherings: A negative result means you can be more assured in attending family event.
- For work environments: In certain workplaces, PCR tests are necessary to have a healthy environment in regular intervals.
Where to Get a PCR Test in Dubai
There are a few convenient ways of getting a PCR test in Dubai, and it depends on your case and wishes. There are various testing facilities in Dubai, as can be found at hospitals and drive-thru centers.
1. Hospitals and Clinics
The PCR testing is provided in multiple hospitals and clinics all over Dubai. They are the trusted and reliable sources to get your test done.
- Examples: Some examples are facilities such as Mediclinic, Dubai Health Authority (DHA) hospitals, and private clinics which provide PCR tests.
- Booking:Notes are usually made instructing a person to make an appointment with the good to ensure to have their results at the time.
- Turnaround time: The turnaround time in the majority of the hospitals as well as clinics is 24 to 48 hours.
2. Drive-Thru Testing Centers
To ensure you are more convenient, you can choose the drive-thru testing centers, where you can be tested without getting out of your car.
- Process: You will drive to a testing booth, where a healthcare worker will carry out the test through the window of your car.
- Popular locations: The most famous sites to perform drive-thru testing are Al Nasr Club Drive Thru Center and the Dubai Mall drive-thru testing center.
- Advantages:Drive-thru facilities are convenient, time-saving, and have minimum contact, therefore, decreasing exposure to risk.
3. Home Testing Services
It is an option to facilitate the test at home, where some providers in Dubai have home PCR testing services.
- How it works: A home sample is collected by a healthcare specialist, and the outcome is sent to you in electronic mandate.
- Cost: Although going to a clinic or drive-thru center may be cheaper than a home test it is more convenient and can be done in the privacy of your own home.
- Popular providers: organizations such as HealthHub and Emirates Specialty Hospital provide opportunities to have tests at home.
PCR Test Price in Dubai: AED 150
Standard PCR Test Cost
The baseline PCR cost in Dubai will run you around AED 150. This price is controlled byDubai Health Authority (DHA) This is to help ensure all facilities are accessible and there is equality.
Factors That Can Affect Pricing
The average price charged is AED 150 but a number of factors can affect the cost of the PCR test:
- Home testing services: If you choose to be tested at home, extra cost may be incurred because of the convenience offered.
- Express services: You may need to spend more in order to receive faster service.
- Private clinics: Private clinics may be a bit more expensive than the ones located in the government, mostly because of quicker results or high-quality services.
Tips for Getting a PCR Test in Dubai
When you are planning and preparing to take your PCR test, keep in mind a few important suggestions to make it run smoother.
1. Book in Advance
It is recommendable to make the booking ahead of time especially when you have restricted time or when you need the results in order to travel. Testing stations may become busy especially during the rush hours such as the holidays or following the news of new travel restrictions.
- Online booking: Increasingly, hospitals, medical centers and test facilities enable you to book online to save time.
- Check turnaround times: Try to find a location that will be able to offer your results within the time frame that you need to travel or with personal requirements.
2. Check Testing Requirements
There are PCR tests which you have to adhere to a number of guidelines before the test. An example is that you might be required to fast or avoid other items such as smoking or eating prior to your appointment.
- Ask beforehand: Make sure to always explain the specific requirements to your testing center before hand so that you do not end up wasting your time in a delay or the need to re-come another day.
- Follow guidelines: To obtain accurate results, pre-test instructions are of major importance.
3. Bring Identification
You are likely to be asked to produce some form of identification to prove your identity by most of the testing centers. Also, be sure to carry your emirates ID or your passport to get your PCR test.
- Important for travelers: For those getting tested for travel, ensure your identification matches the name on your flight ticket and travel documents.
4. Follow Post-Test Instructions
Upon your PCR test, there may be a few guidelines or procedures to proceed with with pending arrival of results.
- Isolation: In case you are experiencing the symptoms or have been in contact with a COVID-19 patient, it is better to self-isolate until the test results are obtained.
- Receiving your results: Most examination centers will have at the completion of time sent your results via SMS or email. Write the proper contact details down.
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FAQs
Q1. How much does PCR test cost in Board in Dubai?
The cost of a PCR test stands between AED 50 and AED 150.
Q2. Where is the cheap PCR test in Dubai?
In the DHA-approved health facilities, hospitals, drugstores, and drive-through.
Q3. How quickly do PCR tests come in ambulance?
Results of the standard 12-24 hours, and the express 1-3 hours.
Q4. Are dubai PCR tests reliable?
All tests are DHA-endorsed and exceedingly trustworthy.
Final Thoughts
Obtaining a PCR test in Dubai is not a complicated process, and there are a number of convenient alternatives to choose, be it due to a travel-related requirement or a health-related concern or your own desire to have a surety. Being knowledgeable on PCR tests pricing, locations, and the process, you can make the right choice when it comes to your health and safety. The stapled price is AED 150, which makes it affordable to all, and it also offers home delivery through drive-thru center and across hospitals, making it convenient to get EDLRD.
