New Covid Rules for Abu Dhabi Schools: Periodic PCR Tests for Students

Abu Dhabi private school students and staff must take "periodic" Covid-19 tests, said officials

Posted on

15 February 2021

| Last updated on 16 February 2021

Abu Dhabi Students and Teachers Must Take Periodic COVID Tests

The Covid-19 PCR tests scheduled by schools will be free for pupils.

On Monday, the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK), released new safety measures for schools against Coronavirus.

All private school teachers, other staff, and students aged 12 and above must undergo "periodic" PCR tests as a safety measure for pupils' return to classrooms.

Students across the UAE resumed in-person classes on Sunday, February 14 after months of remote learning, with others expected to return to school on February 21 after their half-term break.

According to the UAE Ministry of Education, attending classes at school campuses is still optional, as parents can continue to choose distance learning until the end of the academic year.

Pupils with disabilities will not be required to take the mandatory swab tests. School faculty and staff must test for Covid-19 every two weeks.

Abu Dhabi students and teachers must test for Covid-19 periodically

The PCR nasal swab is free for students if they undergo the tests scheduled at their schools.

But if students choose to be tested on a different day or in a location other than the ones specified by the school, parents must pay for the PCR.

Other safety measures

Any students, teachers or school staff returning to Abu Dhabi from international travel are required to follow the mandatory quarantine rules set by authorities.

Students must keep 1.5 metres of distance between each other.

It's mandatory for students in Grade 1 or Year 2 and above to wear face masks.

As part of an extensive compliance programme, Abu Dhabi officials will be conducting 220 school inspection visits this week.

"This will ensure schools’ compliance with the announced precautionary measures aimed at limiting the spread of Covid-19 within the school community," tweeted the Abu Dhabi Media Office.

Private and Charter Schools in #AbuDhabi opened its doors yesterday to offer in-class learning to students in all grades, from KG to Cycle 3. pic.twitter.com/9b71MoWsgq

— مكتب أبوظبي الإعلامي (@admediaoffice) February 15, 2021