Abu Dhabi introduces Covid-19 laser-testing at border to gain entry into emirate

Abu Dhabi has decided to introduce a laser-based technique to rapidly screen for Covid-19 at its border and instantly approve entry to the emirate.

Travellers to Abu Dhabi from other emirates within the UAE will be able to avail of the laser-based DPI technique developed by the QuantLase Imaging Lab, the medical-research department of Abu Dhabi Stock Exchange-listed International Holdings Company (IHC), that can detect virus-caused inflammation in blood samples within seconds.

Travellers to the Emirate of Abu Dhabi can be screened for COVID-19 upon entry by a laser-based DPI technique. A negative result will allow entry to #AbuDhabi, while a positive result will lead to further testing through a PCR test. pic.twitter.com/2XiVVqgNNP

— مكتب أبوظبي الإعلامي (@admediaoffice) July 13, 2020

A negative result will permit entry into the emirate within 48 hours of undergoing the DPI screening.

However, those with a positive result must undergo a nasal swab PCR test at the same location to confirm if they have the virus.

These individuals are then required to return to their residence and avoid contact with others until the PCR test results are available.

Travellers who have already undergone a Covid-19 PCR test and obtained a negative result within the previous 48 hours, will continue to be allowed to enter the emirate, said a statement issued by the Abu Dhabi Media Office on Tuesday.

“The public is encouraged to plan ahead and undergo tests in advance as much as possible to avoid any potential delays,” added the statement issued jointly by the Abu Dhabi Emergency, Crisis & Disaster Committee, the Department of Health and the Abu Dhabi Police.

.@mohapuae adopted a device developed by #AbuDhabi-based QuantLase Imaging Lab to mass screen potential COVID-19 cases. The laser-based DPI technique can detect virus-caused inflammation in blood samples within seconds. pic.twitter.com/qqFeIzqRG9

— مكتب أبوظبي الإعلامي (@admediaoffice) July 13, 2020

There isn’t any confirmation yet on the cost of these new laser-based tests.

Entry into the emirate of Abu Dhabi is currently restricted and requires PCR tests to gain entry.

Read: UAE develops rapid coronavirus laser testing technology with results available in seconds

QuantLase has partnered with the Abu Dhabi-based AI and cloud computing company Group42 (G42) to refine the laser programme.