abu dhabi – CompareInsurance.ae Blog

Are you looking for some weekend breaks to take from the UAE? The small nation benefits from excellent air links to other countries in the Middle East and beyond. Here are some easy and inexpensive weekend breaks that you can take from Abu Dhabi or Dubai. Before booking, remember to purchase worldwide travel insurance – you can use our comparison tool to find the best deal for your short break.

Qatar

Qatar is a tiny nation to the north-west of the UAE. It’s only a short flight, so you can easily visit just for a day or two. Qatar is one of the richest nations on the planet, so it’s a great place to visit for luxury travellers. Some of the best things to do in Doha, its capital, include visits to the Katara Cultural Village, the Barzan Towers, and a trip out of the city to see the desert.

Oman

Oman neighbours the UAE and can be reached by air or road. Muscat is a thriving city that is very welcoming to tourists, and the surrounding nature of Oman is absolutely epic. Don’t miss the many Wadis, including Wadi Shab, the Omani Desert, and the epic Sultan Qaboos Mosque.

Istanbul

Turkey is a large country, but Istanbul is well connected to Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Istanbul sits at the crossroads of Europe and Asia and is a deeply historic city, making it one of the best places in the world to explore. Don’t miss the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sofia, as well as views from the Galata Tower. Be sure to take a walk around Taksim, the new district of Istanbul, and try some delicious Turkish food!

Tbilisi

Tbilisi is a short flight from the UAE and is a popular tourist destination for travellers. It’s very authentic and is a great place to visit if you want to enjoy a completely different culture. The city is beautiful – make sure you take a cable car up to see the amazing views – and the Georgian countryside is marvellous too.

There are lots of places to visit near the UAE, but it is crucial that you compare holiday insurance whenever you go abroad – no matter for how short a time it is! Search our policies today to find the best deal for you.

Photo: Free image by Pixabay

Can I get tested for Covid-19 in UAE?

If you’re worried about a persistent cough, breathing problems, high temperature, or can’t shake off a cold, it’s possible you’ve been infected by the new coronavirus. Individuals that have recently returned from overseas, and people from vulnerable groups need to be particularly careful. Although coronavirus testing is available for walk-in patients, drive through coronavirus test centres have also been established.

About the UAE drive through test centres

Drive through test centres are now available in Dubai Festival City and Abu Dhabi. Current test station locations include Al Qusais, Discovery Gardens, and Silicon Oasis. Further test stations are planned at International City and Al Warqa.

It’s not currently possible to check out all UAE citizens at this moment. Of course, if you do have the virus, it is important you get tested as soon as possible, so you need to take the following steps:

How to get tested for Covid-19 at the new UAE drive through centres

1. You’ll firstly need to complete the online health assessment tool to confirm you’re eligible for testing. At the moment the priority is to test the most vulnerable citizens, and people displaying symptoms within 14 days of return from overseas. The online chatbot walks you through the assessment, and is designed to pick up all indications of added vulnerability, such as hypertension or pregnancy. Your recent contact history will also be examined, so it’s important to be open about any contact you’ve had with other people already diagnosed with coronavirus.

2. The chatbot also provides detailed advice about action you should take, including quarantine or self isolation.

3. Your self assessment test will indicate whether you need to chat further with one of the available doctors. If this is the case, you will be forwarded for a tele-consultation and may also be given an appointment to attend your local drive through Covid-19 testing station.

4. If you are eligible for Covid-19 testing, simply arrive at the designated test station at the time of your appointment. You will be given a nasal swab by the nurse at the second checkpoint, and there is absolutely no need to leave your vehicle at all.

5. You will be advised of the results of your test within two or three days, and should self isolate until your Covid-19 test results are received

Your drive through Covid-19 test will cost Dh425 and this could possibly be covered by your existing health cover. We’re proud to offer all UAE residents the best guide on comparing health insurance, find out more about insurance in the UAE at Compare Insurance today!

Photo: Free image by Pixabay