Everything you need to know about HIV Testing in Dubai

Dubai and Sharjah reportedly have the highest number of positive HIV cases in the UAE. There are several reasons suggested for this. If you are worried about HIV, Better2Know can help you. We provide confidential HIV testing in Dubai as early as ten days after potential exposure.

The rates observed in Sharjah and Dubai are thought to reflect the emirate’s large, multicultural population, “possibly higher levels of risk behaviours” and, potentially, “more exposure to the high-risk phenomena associated with HIV.” Cultural changes, travelling, and altering religious values in the UAE were listed as potential reasons for the heightened risk of HIV.

With early detection and treatment, HIV is no longer-life threatening, though it is still common in the Middle East. Testing is the only way to be certain of your HIV status. If you have concerns about HIV, or are simply unsure, keep yourself and your partner safe by getting tested at your earliest convenience.

Owing to decades of research and medical progression, people who are treated for HIV are now much more likely to remain healthy and well.

The most recent facts about HIV in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA):

• 240,000 people are living with HIV in MENA with a reported 20,000 new cases recorded last year
• 37 per cent of new HIV infections in MENA are from injecting drugs
• Access to HIV testing and treatment in MENA are significantly below the global average.

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that AIDS-related deaths in MENA have increased by more than 250% in the last 15 years. Discussing the statistics, Ben Collins, Director at International HIV Partnerships, said that ‘testing rates in the Middle East are much lower than other parts of the world.’

We can change that.

How can I test for HIV in Dubai?

Knowing your HIV status is extremely important as it can protect both your health and that of any current or future partners. So, if you think you may have been exposed to the virus, stay safe and get yourself tested.

We have three types of HIV test available in the UAE, with varying “window” periods. This is the time between your potential exposure and your test. With Better2Know, your HIV test can be arranged individually or as part of a combination of tests for other STIs, known as a screen.

What if I test positive for HIV?

For reactive HIV tests, we will conduct confirmatory testing at no extra cost. If you wish to speak to a doctor before or after your HIV test, we can arrange a confidential telephone or face-to-face consultation. Your Better2Know advisor can also refer you to a specialist service, where you can receive further advice and treatment options.

Our discreet testing services are performed strictly in line with the UAE’s sexual health legislation and, as such, positive HIV test results may need to be reported to the appropriate authorities. You may be asked to provide a form of identification at your private appointment.

There are many countries, including the UAE, that require HIV certification as part of their visa application process. This is usually pertinent for longer visits or work visas. National regulations surrounding sexual health can be complex, so be sure to check the relevant entry requirements before you travel. Should you require an HIV test certificate, Better2Know can provide you with this.

Arranging your HIV test in Dubai

Better2Know is the Middle East’s largest private provider of sexual health testing services, with world-class facilities across the region, including the emirate of Dubai.

To find out more, or to make a booking, call Better2Know today on the number displayed above. Our experienced Patient Services team will be happy to take your call and answer any questions you may have. You can also arrange an appointment online by selecting the Book Now button at the top of the page.

Sources

[1] Khaleej Times

[2] Avert

[3] The National