Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre (ADPHC) has begun preparations for the 2026–2027 seasonal flu period earlier this year. The move reflects Abu Dhabi’s data-driven approach to public health, using health data and indicators to better understand changing health patterns and take timely preventive action to protect community health.
As part of these efforts, ADPHC has started offering seasonal flu vaccinations at selected Majalis across Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and Al Dhafra, with particular focus on reaching people who are more likely to experience complications from flu. Starting earlier gives community members more time to get vaccinated and benefit from the protection vaccination provides during the flu season.
This year, ADPHC is also expanding the vaccination options available to the community. For the first time as part of the seasonal flu campaign, a nasal spray flu vaccine is being offered to people for whom this option is suitable, providing an additional and convenient choice alongside the traditional flu vaccine.
Access to vaccination will also expand progressively across the emirate, bringing preventive services closer to where people live, work and spend their time. Vaccinations will be available through healthcare facilities, schools, workplaces, shopping malls, Majalis and other community locations, making it easier for more people to protect themselves and their families.
These efforts reflect ADPHC’s prevention-first approach to public health: monitoring health indicators, using data to guide timely preventive action, and giving people practical and accessible ways to take an active role in protecting their health.
Dr Faisal Al Ahbabi, Executive Director of the Communicable Diseases Sector at Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre, said: “Health data and indicators help us understand changing patterns and support timely preventive action. This year, our vaccination efforts are particularly focused on reaching those who may be more vulnerable to complications, while expanding the options and locations available for vaccination. Our aim is to make prevention simple and accessible, and to give people enough time to get vaccinated and protect themselves and their families.”
Seasonal flu is a common respiratory illness, and most people recover without requiring medical treatment. However, some people are more likely to experience complications, including young children, older adults, pregnant women, people with certain chronic conditions and healthcare workers. Timely vaccination can help prevent flu and reduce the likelihood of severe illness and complications.
This year’s efforts build on strong community participation during the 2025–2026 season, when more than 350,000 people across Abu Dhabi received a flu vaccine. Vaccinations were provided through more than 130 healthcare facilities and 11 pharmacies, as well as schools, shopping malls, Majalis, workplaces, embassies and workers’ accommodation.
ADPHC encourages community members to get their seasonal flu vaccine early and make use of the vaccination options available, with particular importance for those more likely to experience complications from flu. Vaccinations are currently available at selected Majalis across Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and Al Dhafra, with availability expanding progressively across the emirate during September 2026.
People interested in the nasal spray flu vaccine can speak to their healthcare provider to find out whether this option is suitable for them.
For further information on vaccination locations and schedules, please visit the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre website.
