The photo has been used for illustrative purposes.

Gulf Today, Staff Reporter

The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) has included new categories of people who can book an appointment for vaccination.  

Under the directives of Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the DHA announced that all valid Dubai resident visa holders aged 40 and above can now register to receive COVID-19 vaccination at DHA facilities.

The Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine can now be administered to all individuals 16 years and above, instead of 18 years and the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine can now be administered to anyone aged 18 and above, instead of those between 18-65 years.

AstraZeneca vaccine bottles are stored at a lab in Dubai.

GCC nationals with a valid Emirates ID can also now get vaccinated at DHA facilities.

The targeted categories can book a vaccination appointment through the DHA App or DHA Contact Centre, which can be reached on 800 342.

The announcement is aligned with Sheikh Mohammed’s instructions to adopt comprehensive measures to protect the community from COVID-19 and ensure the highest levels of health and safety.

Dr. Farida Al Khaja, CEO of DHA’s Clinical Support Services and Nursing Sector and Chairperson of the COVID-19 Vaccination Steering Committee, said the ongoing expansion of the vaccination campaign is based on a strategic plan developed by the Authority late last year, which outlines progressive phases and timelines based on global best practices and guidelines.