Evaluating the acceptance of COVID-19 vaccine among the adult population in the United Arab Emirates

Abstract

Background: Ever since the emergence of coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) infection in the UAE, the government had taken several preventive measures against the disease, including vaccination. Acceptance of the vaccine among the population played a crucial role in determining whether the pandemic could be successfully controlled. This study aimed to assess the acceptance, knowledge, and perception of the COVID-19 vaccine among the adult population of the UAE. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using a snowball sampling method among UAE residents above 18 years of age. Data were collected using an online questionnaire consisting of 33 close-ended questions divided into three sections. Results: A total of 825 adults (males = 18.4% and females = 81.6%) participated in the study. Males were 3.3 times more likely to get vaccinated than females (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.9–5.7). Those participants who took the flu vaccine before were 1.4 times more likely to get vaccinated (95% CI: 1.003–1.897). Employed participants were three times more likely to take the vaccine as compared with students and those who were unemployed (95% CI: 2.078–4.577). Likewise, those who were over 40 years old and those who believed in the efficacy and safety of vaccines were more willing to get vaccinated. Conclusion: The acceptance of the COVID-19 vaccine was overall high, especially among males and employees. Our findings may help identify vulnerable groups in order to expand vaccination coverage and help raise awareness among UAE residents.