Free Flu Vaccines Available to Eligible Abu Dhabi Residents Aged Six Months and Older.
Abu Dhabi residents will have additional ways to protect themselves against seasonal influenza this year, following the introduction of a needle-free nasal spray flu vaccine for the first time.
The Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre (ADPHC) announced that the nasal spray vaccine will be offered to eligible residents during the 2026–2027 influenza season, alongside conventional flu injections and a specially formulated high-dose vaccine for adults aged 65 and above.
The centre also confirmed that seasonal flu vaccinations will be provided free of charge to all eligible individuals aged six months and older throughout Abu Dhabi.
Three Flu Vaccine Options Available for Residents
As part of the latest seasonal influenza vaccination campaign, residents can choose from three vaccine options, depending on their age, medical history and individual health requirements.
Standard injectable flu vaccines will continue to be available for eligible individuals aged six months and above.
For the first time, a nasal spray vaccine will also be introduced, offering a needle-free alternative for people who may be uncomfortable receiving injections.
However, ADPHC clarified that the nasal spray vaccine is not appropriate for everyone. Residents are therefore advised to seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional to determine whether they are eligible to receive it.
Additionally, a high-dose influenza vaccine will be available for adults aged 65 and older, providing an option specifically designed for the needs of this age group.
Where Can Abu Dhabi Residents Receive Free Flu Vaccinations?
According to ADPHC, seasonal influenza vaccines will be accessible through a wide network of healthcare providers, participating pharmacies and dedicated vaccination initiatives across Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and Al Dhafra.
To make vaccination more convenient for residents, immunisation services will also be offered at various locations, including schools, offices, shopping malls and community councils.
These additional vaccination points are intended to help residents access flu protection without relying solely on traditional healthcare facilities.
This year’s influenza vaccination campaign was launched earlier than in previous seasons, with vaccines progressively becoming available at locations across the emirate throughout September.
350,000 Residents Vaccinated During Previous Flu Season
According to the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre (ADPHC), approximately 350,000 people received seasonal influenza vaccinations across Abu Dhabi during the 2025–2026 flu season.
The vaccines were administered through a network of 130 healthcare facilities and 11 outpatient pharmacies, supported by additional vaccination campaigns organised at schools, shopping malls, workplaces and other community locations.
These initiatives helped expand access to flu vaccinations and encouraged residents to take preventive measures against seasonal influenza.
Who Should Get the Flu Vaccine Early?
ADPHC has advised residents to receive their seasonal flu vaccinations as early as possible, particularly individuals who face a higher risk of developing serious complications from influenza.
Priority groups include:
- Children younger than five years old, who may be more vulnerable to flu-related complications.
- Older adults, particularly those aged 65 and above.
- Pregnant women, who may face an increased risk of severe influenza.
- People living with chronic health conditions, who may be more susceptible to complications.
- Healthcare professionals, who may experience greater exposure to influenza viruses through their work.
The centre explained that the immune system generally requires around two weeks after vaccination to develop a protective response against influenza.
Although flu vaccination does not guarantee complete protection against infection, it can significantly lower the likelihood of severe illness, serious complications and hospital admission.
ADPHC also highlighted that seasonal influenza vaccines are regularly updated in accordance with recommendations issued by the World Health Organisation (WHO).
These updates take into account the influenza virus strains expected to circulate during each flu season, helping ensure that vaccines provide protection against the most relevant strains.
Residents are encouraged to speak with their healthcare providers before vaccination to identify the most appropriate vaccine based on their age, medical history and overall health condition.
