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Abu Dhabi introduced mandatory Covid-19 testing for people entering the emirate at the end of June.
Drivers and passengers were only granted entry to the capital if they could present a negative Covid-19 test taken within a specific time period.
Since then, the details have changed a few times.
Initially, only polymerase chain reaction (PCR) swab test results were accepted but later people were allowed to enter with results from a cheaper diffractive phase interferometry (DPI) laser test, which cost just Dh50.
Now, the emirate has updated the rules allowing people to enter using only a DPI test. However, on the sixth consecutive day of entry to Abu Dhabi, a negative PCR test received within 48 hours must also be presented.
So what does the change to the system mean for motorists?
The National explains.
What are the rules in place today?
Residents and Emiratis driving into Abu Dhabi will need a negative PCR or DPI test result received within the previous 48 hours to be granted entry.
The DPI laser test is valid on its own but can only be used to enter the emirate for five consecutive days before a negative PCR result, received within 48 hours, is also needed.
Alternatively, people can present a negative PCR result without a DPI test.
“Residents and visitors can enter the emirate of Abu Dhabi within 48 hours of receiving a negative PCR or DPI test result. DPI test results no longer require a prior PCR test,” the Abu Dhabi government media office tweeted.
“Residents and visitors who stay for six consecutive days or more within Abu Dhabi emirate must now take a PCR test on the sixth day of each visit, in order to protect the health and safety of the community.”
The rapid test costs Dh50, while the PRC swab is typically Dh370.
The cheaper DPI test is more popular among regular commuters. However, it does not determine if the person tested has Covid-19, rather only checks for a surge in blood cells that indicates some kind of infection.
Daily commuting is not encouraged by authorities but if a person's job depended on it, it is possible.
Why have authorities introduced this change?
It is part of strengthened measures to curb the spread of Covid-19. Authorities said cases had been steadily rising since August with the UAE recording its highest number of daily cases (735) since May on September 2.
What is the difference between the two tests?
The PCR test is considered the "gold standard" for Covid-19 diagnosis. It works by taking a sample from the throat or nose. Scientists then strip it down in a laboratory to detect the virus's genetic material. This test is more laborious, and expensive, at about Dh370.
For the laser test, medics take a drop of blood that is analysed using a laser beam of light. It looks for changes in blood cells. A healthy person’s blood cell is perfectly round, but scattered in unhealthy cells. The image is then compared to thousands of others using an algorithm. The team behind the device said it proved 85 to 90 per cent accurate in tests.
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10 tips for entry-level job seekers
- Have an up-to-date, professional LinkedIn profile. If you don’t have a LinkedIn account, set one up today. Avoid poor-quality profile pictures with distracting backgrounds. Include a professional summary and begin to grow your network.
- Keep track of the job trends in your sector through the news. Apply for job alerts at your dream organisations and the types of jobs you want – LinkedIn uses AI to share similar relevant jobs based on your selections.
- Double check that you’ve highlighted relevant skills on your resume and LinkedIn profile.
- For most entry-level jobs, your resume will first be filtered by an applicant tracking system for keywords. Look closely at the description of the job you are applying for and mirror the language as much as possible (while being honest and accurate about your skills and experience).
- Keep your CV professional and in a simple format – make sure you tailor your cover letter and application to the company and role.
- Go online and look for details on job specifications for your target position. Make a list of skills required and set yourself some learning goals to tick off all the necessary skills one by one.
- Don’t be afraid to reach outside your immediate friends and family to other acquaintances and let them know you are looking for new opportunities.
- Make sure you’ve set your LinkedIn profile to signal that you are “open to opportunities”. Also be sure to use LinkedIn to search for people who are still actively hiring by searching for those that have the headline “I’m hiring” or “We’re hiring” in their profile.
- Prepare for online interviews using mock interview tools. Even before landing interviews, it can be useful to start practising.
- Be professional and patient. Always be professional with whoever you are interacting with throughout your search process, this will be remembered. You need to be patient, dedicated and not give up on your search. Candidates need to make sure they are following up appropriately for roles they have applied.
Arda Atalay, head of Mena private sector at LinkedIn Talent Solutions, Rudy Bier, managing partner of Kinetic Business Solutions and Ben Kinerman Daltrey, co-founder of KinFitz
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