Understanding your HbA1c (Glycated Haemoglobin) results
HbA1c measures the share of haemoglobin in red blood cells that has glucose attached to it (glycated haemoglobin). Red blood cells live for about three to four months, so the result reflects average blood glucose over the past two to three months and is not changed by fasting on the day. It is reported as a percentage or in mmol/mol. Doctors use HbA1c to help diagnose diabetes and to follow how well blood glucose is controlled over time.
The ranges on this page are commonly quoted adult reference ranges. Laboratories set their own, so the range printed on your report is the one that applies to your result.
Commonly quoted adult reference ranges
>>>| Parameter | Reference range | Unit | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below the pre-diabetes band | < 5.7 | % | |
| Band often labelled pre-diabetes | 5.7–6.4 | % | |
| Threshold commonly used for diabetes | ≥ 6.5 | % | A diagnosis is made by a doctor, usually after a repeat test |
What a high HbA1c (Glycated Haemoglobin) result can mean
An HbA1c above the reference range means average blood glucose has been higher than usual over recent months. A result in the band often labelled pre-diabetes shows glucose is raised but below the threshold commonly used for diabetes. A result at or above that threshold, usually confirmed by a second test, is one of the ways doctors diagnose diabetes. In people who already have diabetes, a higher HbA1c over time is linked to a greater risk of damage to the eyes (retinopathy), kidneys (nephropathy) and nerves (neuropathy).
What a low HbA1c (Glycated Haemoglobin) result can mean
HbA1c can read falsely low when red blood cells have a shorter life than usual, as in haemolytic anaemia or sickle cell disease, or after a recent blood transfusion. In those cases the result underestimates average glucose and a doctor may use another measure. A genuinely low HbA1c is rare.
How a doctor reads the result
A doctor will usually interpret HbA1c alongside fasting glucose, symptoms, medicines and conditions that affect red blood cells. A single result is not a diagnosis. Discuss the result with your doctor, who can explain what it means for you and whether a repeat test is needed.
Follow-up a doctor may arrange
After a raised HbA1c, a doctor may repeat the test or check fasting glucose, and may also look at kidney function, cholesterol and blood pressure. How often HbA1c is repeated depends on the result and on any treatment, and is decided by the doctor.
Related tests
>>>HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin): preparation and listed prices
No fasting is needed. Sample type: blood. The HbA1c test is listed at AED 84 to AED 100 across 4 labs and services: AED 84 on the Smart Care Polyclinic website (Dubai only), AED 89 on the DarDoc website, AED 90 on the Unilabs website and AED 100 on the Healthchecks360 website.
Sources: Prices on this page are the ones each lab or service publishes on its own website, read between 13 October 2026 and 7 November 2026. Zavis has published prices from 6 of the 13 labs and services it lists: of the other 7, 6 do not publish per-test prices and 1 website could not be read. The websites do not all say whether VAT or a collection fee is added to a listed price, so confirm the price with the lab before you book. How Zavis sources prices.
Listed prices for the HbA1c test, as each site names itFrequently asked questions
What are the commonly quoted reference ranges for HbA1c (Glycated Haemoglobin)?
Commonly quoted adult reference ranges are: Below the pre-diabetes band: < 5.7 %; Band often labelled pre-diabetes: 5.7–6.4 %; Threshold commonly used for diabetes: ≥ 6.5 %. Laboratories set their own ranges, so the range printed on your report is the one that applies to your result.
What can a high HbA1c (Glycated Haemoglobin) result mean?
An HbA1c above the reference range means average blood glucose has been higher than usual over recent months. A result in the band often labelled pre-diabetes shows glucose is raised but below the threshold commonly used for diabetes. A result at or above that threshold, usually confirmed by a second test, is one of the ways doctors diagnose diabetes. In people who already have diabetes, a higher HbA1c over time is linked to a greater risk of damage to the eyes (retinopathy), kidneys (nephropathy) and nerves (neuropathy).
Is fasting needed for HbA1c (Glycated Haemoglobin)?
No fasting is needed. Sample type: blood.
How often are HbA1c (Glycated Haemoglobin) results rechecked?
There is no single interval that suits everyone. A doctor can advise whether and how often to test, based on your health, any treatment and your earlier results.
Medical disclaimer: The information on this page is provided for general educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Reference ranges are general guidelines. Your doctor will interpret your results in the context of your full clinical picture, symptoms, and medical history. If you have concerns about your test results, always consult a licensed healthcare professional. Do not delay seeking medical advice or disregard professional medical guidance because of information on this page.