UAE Schoolchildren Eligible for Free Flu Vaccinations in 2026-27 Season

What Happened

For the 2026-27 season, schoolchildren have been included among the priority groups for free influenza vaccinations in the UAE [1]. The National Seasonal Flu Awareness Campaign is scheduled to run from 1 September 2026 to 31 March 2027 [1]. While the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) recommends administering the vaccine in September or October, families can consult healthcare providers throughout the campaign period [1].

Vaccination arrangements vary by emirate [1]:

• Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah: Eligible students can receive free seasonal influenza vaccinations through school health services supported by Emirates Health Services (EHS) [1].
• Abu Dhabi: Children aged five to 18 are eligible for free vaccination [1]. Adek has encouraged parents, students, and staff to visit the nearest Seha Primary Healthcare Centre for a complimentary shot [2].
• Dubai: There is no free school-based influenza vaccination programme for private school students [1]. Parents may access vaccines through healthcare providers, depending on insurance, eligibility, and provider policies [1].

At Ambassador School Sharjah, principal Arogya Reddy stated the vaccination drive will cover both students and teachers following confirmation from health authorities [1]. Sharjah Indian School principal Pramod Mahajan noted that the school is organising drives in stages for different age groups and requires parental consent before administration [1]. GEMS Education Group Medical Director Dr Mirrah Agha-Kandil said the group facilitates vaccine access through partnerships and family benefit programmes [1].

Who Is Affected

• Students in Sharjah and Northern Emirates: Eligible for free vaccines via EHS-supported school services [1].
• Students in Abu Dhabi: Children aged five to 18 are priority groups for free vaccination [1].
• Private school students in Dubai: Must seek vaccinations through healthcare providers or school clinics [1].
• General Population: Dr Omar Al Hammadi noted the vaccine is particularly important for the elderly and those with pre-existing conditions [2]. Dr Praveen Sreekanthalal stated anyone aged six months and above can receive the vaccine, with urgency for those with asthma, chronic lung disease, heart disease, kidney disease, or weakened immunity [1].

What Students Should Do Next

• Check with schools: Parents in Sharjah and the Northern Emirates should contact schools regarding specific vaccination dates, eligibility, and consent forms [1].
• Confirm Abu Dhabi options: Parents should contact schools or healthcare providers to see if vaccinations are on campus or at a designated facility [1].
• Review insurance in Dubai: Parents should check with school nurses or healthcare providers regarding vaccine availability and insurance coverage [1].
• Provide consent: In schools like Sharjah Indian School, parental consent must be provided before the vaccine is administered [1].