The coronavirus vaccine developed by the Chinese pharmaceutical company, Sinopharm, is now available at all medical centers in the United Arab Emirates, the country's health ministry announced on Thursday.

Citizens and residents over the age of 18 years can take the jab. The vaccine is especially important for the elderly and those with chronic diseases, the ministry said.

"Due to the vulnerability of senior citizens with chronic diseases, and in order to preserve their health and safety, the ministry will provide them with priority health services," the ministry added.

The vaccine is offered in two doses: The first is given after some medical tests and assessments, and the second is given 21 to 28 days later.

The vaccine requires two doses. The first dose is taken following an assessment of the patient’s health while the second dose is taken after a period averaging between 21 to 28 days.

The preliminary outcomes of phase three of the clinical tests carried out by Sinopharm showed the immunity acquired against COVID-19 infection. Seroconversion rate was recorded at 99 percent of equivalent antibodies, with a 100 percent rate of prevention from moderate or severe cases.

The overall efficacy rate of the Chinese vaccine is 86 percent. Moreover, the data also showed that there were no concerns related to the safety of the vaccine.

Meanwhile, Dubai is offering the Pfizer-BioNTech Covid-19 vaccination for free to residents. — Agencies