Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) announced on Wednesday that students and staff in private and charter schools are required to get a PCR test prior to returning to in-person learning.

All those returning to schools, including those who have been fully inoculated, people of determination, administration staff and contractors, must present a negative PCR test result taken within 14 days of the first day of school, ADEK said in a statement.

Students will also be required to “maintain a 14-day valid PCR test result during their first month” of the school year.

There will be free testing centers dedicated to students over the age of 12 and for school staff, adding that specific dates and locations have been announced for each school, ADEK said.

Those under 12, or students of determination can get a free test at any private or public testing center in the emirate.

Authorities are also expected to announce “routine PCR testing schedule and frequency for staff and students in due course.”