By Claudia De Brito
Authorities in the United Arab Emirates have set a price cap for the cost of Covid-19 PCR tests at AED50 – less than £10.
The previous price limit was AED65 in Abu Dhabi and AED150 in Dubai, with rates differing in the other emirates.
Along with observing the new price cap, clinics must deliver results within 24 hours.
The cost of PCR tests has been reduced several times by UAE authorities to ensure that they remain affordable and free tests are provided for students and employees in certain fields.
The cost of PCR tests in the UK has long been criticised by consumers and the travel industry and the British government is now cracking down on “cowboy” testing companies
Earlier this month, the cost of an NHS Test and Trace test for international arrivals was reduced from £88 to £68 for green or fully vaccinated arrivals from amber destinations.
Gemma Antrobus, owner of Haslemere Travel and chair of Aito Agents, tweeted about the UAE announcement, asking: “Is the PCR testing system in the UK about making money? Let’s take a look…in Dubai the Ministry of Health & Prevention have slashed costs of PCR tests to AED50 (less than £10). Results must also be given within 24 hours. Now how much are we charging here?”
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