Abu Dhabi: All schoolgoing children aged four to 11 years who have returned to the UAE on or after January 3 must present a negative COVID-19 test prior to their physical return to school, the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (Adek) has said.

To comply with the requirement, children must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test result with 96-hour validity, conducted via a nasal swab or saliva sample.

The requirement was announced ahead of the resumption of face-to-face classes in Abu Dhabi schools after the three-week winter break. Although classes began on January 3, the Adek had announced a two-week distance learning period for all students in the emirate.

The Adek has also published a list of testing centres across the emirate where the COVID-19 tests are available free of charge for students.

Meanwhile, school leaders told Gulf News they are ready to welcome students back to classrooms, with all COVID-19 precautionary measures in place. They also reported interest for face-to-face learning from more families this term.

Free COVID-19 testing centres

-Biogenix Lab, Masdar City. Open every day, 7am – 10pm

-Al Hosn One-Day Surgery Centre, Al Sahel Towers. Open every day except Friday, 10am – 8pm

-Mafraq Hospital, Shakhbout City. Open every day, 7am – 10pm

-Al Tiwayyah Community Centre Majlis. Open every day, 9am – 5pm

-Al Reef Community Centre Majlis, Al Hili. Open every day, 9am – 5pm

-Al Mas’oudi Community Centre Majlis, Al Hili. Open every day, 9am – 5pm

-Burjeel Oasis Medical Centre. Open every day except Friday, 9am – 5pm