The UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention on Wednesday reported 246 new cases of the Covid-19 coronavirus, along with 232 recoveries. No new deaths were reported.

More than 72,600 new Covid-19 tests have been carried out, the ministry said.

In a statement, the ministry has once again affirmed its aim to continue expanding the scope of testing nationwide to facilitate the early detection of coronavirus cases and carry out the necessary treatment, and over 5.6 million tests have been carried out so far.

As from today (Wednesday, August 12), expatriate residents stranded abroad will no longer need entry permits issued by the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) to enter the UAE. The decision was announced by the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority (NCEMA) and ICA early on Wednesday. The announcement comes as the second phase of the 'Residents Return Programme', and coincides with the end of the summer holidays for educational institutions and the resumption of commercial and social activities.

Meanwhile, seven new drive-through coronavirus screening centres have opened across the country. SEHA's Ambulatory Healthcare Services announced on Tuesday the launch of laser-based DPI testing (blood test) for people wanting to enter or re-enter Abu Dhabi at select drive-through screening centres. "During the first phase, the service will be provided at screening centres in Zayed Sports City and Corniche in Abu Dhabi, Al Hili in Al Ain, and at the National Screening Centres in Mina Rashed, Al Khawaneej, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah," the Abu Dhabi Health Services Company, SEHA, said in a statement. Those wanting to enter the emirate can book an appointment via the SEHA app and pay the Dh50 charge.

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