Vaccination is one of the most effective ways to protect your child from serious infectious diseases. The UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) has established a comprehensive immunisation programme that is mandatory for all children.
Why Vaccination Matters
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), vaccines prevent an estimated 3.5–5 million deaths every year worldwide. Vaccinations work by training the immune system to recognise and fight specific pathogens without causing the disease itself.
The UAE has one of the highest vaccination coverage rates in the world, with coverage of approximately 96-98% for most routine vaccines, contributing to the near elimination of diseases like polio and measles.
UAE National Immunisation Schedule
The following schedule is based on the MoHAP national immunisation programme:
At Birth
- BCG (Bacillus Calmette–Guérin): Protects against tuberculosis
- Hepatitis B (HepB): First dose
2 Months
- DTaP-IPV-Hib-HepB (6-in-1 vaccine): Protects against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), polio, Haemophilus influenzae type b, and hepatitis B
- PCV13 (Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine): First dose
- Rotavirus: First dose (oral)
4 Months
- DTaP-IPV-Hib-HepB: Second dose
- PCV13: Second dose
- Rotavirus: Second dose
6 Months
- DTaP-IPV-Hib-HepB: Third dose
- PCV13: Third dose
- Rotavirus: Third dose (depending on brand)
9 Months
- Measles: First dose (standalone)
12 Months
- MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella): First dose
- Varicella (Chickenpox): First dose
- Hepatitis A: First dose
18 Months
- DTaP-IPV-Hib: Booster dose
- Hepatitis A: Second dose
4–6 Years (School Entry)
- DTaP-IPV: Booster
- MMR: Second dose
- Varicella: Second dose
11–12 Years
- Tdap (Tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis booster)
- HPV (Human papillomavirus): Recommended
Frequently Asked Questions
Are vaccinations mandatory in the UAE?
Yes. The UAE Federal Law No. 14 of 2014 mandates childhood immunisation. Children must have a complete vaccination record for school enrollment.
Are vaccines safe?
Yes. Vaccines used in the UAE are approved by the WHO, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and MoHAP. The WHO's Global Advisory Committee on Vaccine Safety continuously monitors vaccine safety worldwide. Side effects are typically mild and temporary, such as soreness at the injection site, mild fever, or fussiness.
What if my child missed a vaccination?
Catch-up schedules are available. Contact your paediatrician or nearest health centre to get back on track. It is generally safe to resume the schedule without restarting the series.
My child has a mild cold. Should I delay the vaccine?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and WHO, children with mild illnesses (runny nose, low-grade fever, mild ear infection) can safely receive vaccines. Your doctor will assess whether to proceed.
Does the UAE require any additional vaccines for school?
Schools may request proof of additional vaccines or booster doses. Check with your child's school for specific requirements.
Tips for Parents
- Keep vaccination records safe: The UAE health authorities issue a vaccination card. Keep it with your child's important documents
- Note next appointment dates: Schedule follow-up doses promptly to maintain protection
- Comfort your child: Hold them, distract with a favourite toy, and offer comfort after the injection
- Watch for reactions: Mild fever and soreness are normal. Contact your doctor if symptoms are severe or persistent
Schedule Your Child's Vaccination
At Jabal Sina Medical Centre, our paediatric team follows the MoHAP immunisation schedule and can advise on catch-up vaccinations.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor for personalised guidance.