UAE Announces Free Covid Jab For Residents Aged 16 & Above

UAE is in full swing when it comes to vaccinating its citizens. The nation aims to vaccinate 50 per cent till the first quarter of 2021. And now, the Ministry of Health and Prevention has announced free Covid vaccines to all UAE residents. More than 40% of the UAE’s population has received at least one shot of the coronavirus vaccine.

The ministry of Health and Prevention has now prioritised the elderly and other vulnerable groups for the jab for six weeks. Starting Sunday, March 21, all eligible residents aged 16 and above can book appointments to get the jab. Residents and citizens can get the vaccine for free at over 205 health centres in the country. However, prior appointments are mandatory.


Over the last six weeks, over 72% of senior citizens and those with chronic diseases in the country have received the Covid vaccine. Overall, over 56% residents have received the vaccine. Four vaccines are available in the country: Sinopharm, Pfizer, Sputnik V and AstraZeneca.

Dr Farida Al Hosani, the spokeswoman for the health sector, announced at the weekly Covid-19 briefing that more than 5.19 million doses are administered, and the rate of doses per 100 people is 52.56.

Speaking about the covid-19 vaccine and the virus, Dr Farida also added that people who test positive after receiving a first shot of the vaccine must take the second dose after their recovery. Furthermore, the second injection is advised for those who had mild symptoms or remained asymptomatic. Whereas, patients who get sick with severe illness and need hospital treatment should consult a doctor before taking their second dose.