Factors affecting attitudes toward the COVID-19 vaccine: empirical evidence from the United Arab Emirates

ABSTRACT

Despite the importance of vaccinations to combat COVID-19, some people are still wary. This study examines factors affecting attitudes toward COVID-19 vaccination in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Data were collected using an online survey to determine the factors that affect people's attitudes reluctant to have the COVID-19 vaccine. In total, 958 respondents participated in this study. The main factors affecting people's attitudes toward the COVID-19 vaccine in the UAE are medical concerns, religious concerns, misinformation about vaccines on social media, the rapid speed of vaccine development, and the risks of side effects associated with the vaccine. There was no difference in gender, but the older respondents (55 and above), those less educated, unemployed, and those who work in the private sector have more fears and hesitancy toward taking the vaccine.