The National Immunization Program of the United Arab Emirates has significantly contributed to the nation’s top-notch public health services. The UAE has seen a marked reduction in the spread of infectious diseases since the program’s early introduction in 1980. Measles, mumps, and rubella cases have declined sharply, and the nation has been polio-free since 2004. The UAE gives free vaccination to its citizens in an effort to uphold the nation’s excellent level of public health.
If you’re an ex-pat wondering how much vaccinations for newborns cost in the UAE, you might be surprised to discover that they’re completely free. How to obtain free newborn vaccines in the UAE is explained in this Pacific Prime Dubai article.
The UAE’s National Immunization Program
Children can receive free vaccinations in the United Arab Emirates, including shots against the human papillomavirus and hepatitis B. For kids under the age of five, the government will provide free vaccines to any ex-pat with a valid residency visa. Only those shots that are viewed as optional are not covered.
Don’t worry if your baby misses any shots or if you wait too long to get them for whatever reason. With the help of your pediatrician, devise a fresh plan that will enable you to catch up. In fact, if your child is more than one vaccine behind schedule or started late, the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) has established a catch-up vaccination regimen that you can follow.
How to book free vaccinations for babies in the UAE?
Do you need to schedule a baby vaccination appointment in Abu Dhabi? Or how about scheduling a baby vaccine in Dubai? Depending on where you live in the UAE, there are several procedures for registering to have your child vaccinated. Here are the detailed procedures for the various emirates.
Dubai
DHA’s public health centers, which are distributed throughout the emirate, offer vaccinations in Dubai. You only need to open a file at the nearby public health facility to schedule an appointment. Give DHA a call at 800 342 if you’re unsure of the location of the health facility closest to you.
Required documents
Be sure to bring the following documents with you when visiting the health center:
- Both parents’ passport and visa page copy
- Both parents’ Emirates ID copy
- Child’s passport copy with entry permit or visa
- Child’s birth certificate
- Child’s vaccination book
- Child’s photograph (passport size)
- Latest utility bill or tenancy contract
Fees
| Health card (one-year validity) | AED 120 |
| Health card replacement (if lost or stolen) | AED 70 |
| Health card renewal | AED 120 |
It’s crucial to vaccinate your child on time, but if they have a serious sickness or a high fever, it may be preferable to reschedule your appointment. If so, you can phone the call center to reschedule your appointment for the following opening. You should be aware that it can take a few weeks for a spot to open up.
Abu Dhabi
You must have a current insurance card in order to register for newborn vaccines because health insurance is required in Abu Dhabi. Call Abu Dhabi Health Services Seha to make an appointment if you already have a valid insurance card (800 50).
There are 34 public health clinics run by the Health Authority of Abu Dhabi (HAAD) that provide vaccination services, making it simple to locate one nearby.
Required documents
Bring the following documents with you when you go to the health center:
- Valid insurance card
- Vaccination card
- Child’s original passport/Emirates ID/birth certificate
Fees
Since residents are not forced to pay for vaccinations, if you have the necessary health insurance, there will be no cost to you.
Other emirates
You wonder, “What about free vaccinations for infants in Ajman and other emirates?” The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP)-administered Emirates provides medical facilities where you can have your child vaccinated. Among these emirates are:
- Ajman
- Fujairah
- Ras Al Khaimah
- Sharjah
- Umm Al Quwain
To find out which medical health center is closest to you, call MOHAP at 800-11111 or contact them online.
Required documents
To open a vaccination file at a MOHAP health center, you will require the following paperwork:
- Child’s birth certificate
- Parents’ Emirates ID
- Tenancy contract
When you come to the facility to make an appointment, just bring all the necessary documentation.
Fees
Both downloading a file and receiving shots covered by the National Immunization Program are free of charge.
Additional vaccinations
Many medical facilities offer extra vaccinations in addition to those covered by the National Immunization Program, including the influenza vaccine, also known as a flu shot, vaccinations for the Haj and Umrah, and vaccinations for travel to specific nations.
Vaccines available in the UAE’s private health centers
In the UAE, vaccinations for newborns, kids, and adults can be given at state health facilities or private hospitals. Private hospitals charge a price for their services, whereas vaccinations at public facilities and government hospitals may be free for locals and holders of health cards. Fortunately, the majority of insurance pays the bill.
It is simple to take care of your child’s health and safety while you are in the area because of the UAE’s emphasis on healthcare. You can rest easy knowing your child’s health is in good hands whether you take advantage of the free public services or choose private healthcare instead.
Also Read: Everything about DHA’S COVID-19 home vaccination service