No, the Ghantoot DPI Test Center is no longer operational. Abu Dhabi lifted all the COVID-19 entry requirements from Dubai and other emirates, and no longer requires travellers to get a DPI or PCR test before entering the emirate.
Ghantoot DPI Test Center was situated close to the Abu Dhabi–Dubai border on Sheikh Zayed Road (E11), and was utilised for quick coronavirus testing during the Covid-19 pandemic. Residents and visitors are now able to move freely from emirate to emirate without having to take any COVID-19 test.
What Was the Ghantoot DPI Test?
Ghantoot DPI Test is a fast screening service of COVID-19 during pandemic. It was based on Diffractive Phase Interferometry (DPI) technology to examine a small amount of blood taken from a finger prick.
Unlike the PCR test, the DPI test gave results much quicker and was one of the most opted test by commuters who were entering Abu Dhabi.
Is the Ghantoot DPI Test Center Still Open in 2026?
No.
Due to the removal of the entry requirements for COVID-19 to Abu Dhabi, the Ghantoot DPI Test Center has been closed for good.
Today:
- There is no DPI test required.
- There are no requirements for a PCR test.
- The Abu Dhabi border checkpoints do not have COVID-19 screening facilities.
- Residents and tourists are allowed to move freely between all Emirates of the UAE.
Where Was the Ghantoot DPI Test Center Located?
The testing centre was located on Sheikh Zayed Road (E11) between Dubai and Abu Dhabi in Ghantoot.
It catered for thousands of commuters every day, coming from:
- Dubai
- Sharjah
- Ajman
- Ras Al Khaimah
- Umm Al Quwain
- Fujairah
It was a drive-thru test, enabling motorists to take the test in their cars.
How Did the DPI Test Work?
The procedure was simple:
- Your fingertip was pricked for a small amount of blood and taken away by a health care worker.
- The sample was analysed with DPI technology.
- The results were made available in a short time.
- Positive or inconclusive results needed retest with a PCR.
The whole journey took about a few minutes.
How Much Did the Ghantoot DPI Test Cost?
The total of Ghantoot DPI Test was AED 50 before its closure.
The fee was subject to change several times throughout the pandemic to comply with government requirements.
Do You Need a DPI Test Today?
As of writing this, there are no DPI or PCR tests required for travelers coming from any other emirate to enter Abu Dhabi.
With the removal of the border restrictions, residents, tourists and business travellers are able to drive between Dubai and Abu Dhabi without having to be tested for COVID-19 at the border.
What Replaced the Ghantoot DPI Test?
Although Ghantoot DPI Test Centre has shut down in 2009, the UAE’s hospitals, clinics and diagnostic labs still offer a range of medical tests. Blood tests, health screening, visa medical examination and other laboratory services as needed.
While visiting, if any medical test is required, it is recommended to reach out to an approved health care provider.
Why Is the Ghantoot DPI Test Still Being Searched?
Older maps and travel guides reference the center, which is why many people are still looking for “Ghantoot DPI Test.
Some would like to verify if:
- The center is open.
- COVID-19 testing is still needed in Abu Dhabi.
- Border crossings remain in existence.
The answer to all three of the questions is No.
Final Verdict
The Ghantoot DPI Test Center was one of the UAE’s most critical screening centres for COVID-19, enabling millions of travellers to enter the UAE at Abu Dhabi safely during the pandemic. It is now, however, permanently closed and there are no more requirements for travel between emirates in UAE for COVID-19 testing.
You will be able to travel freely without a DPI or PCR test if you are travelling to Abu Dhabi today.
FAQs
Is Ghantoot DPI test center operating?
No, Ghantoot DPI Test Center is not open anymore.
Can I go to Abu Dhabi without a DPI test?
The DPI or PCR test requirement is no longer in effect in Abu Dhabi (AEDP) for entry.
In what city was the Ghantoot DPI Test Center?
It was situated in Ghantoot, Sheikh Zayed road (E11) Dubai to Abu Dhabi.
How much did the Ghantoot DPI test cost?
During its operation, the test usually cost AED 50.
What do you think the Ghantoot DPI Test was for?
This was a speedy coronavirus test conducted on travellers arriving in Abu Dhabi during the pandemic.
By
