After three weeks of all of Dubai being in a 24-hour lockdown due to the national sterilisation programme taking place, it was announced at the end of last week movement restrictions were being lifted, also marking the beginning of Ramadan.
However, there are still stringent regulations in place in order to protect public health and to contain the spread of COVID-19. Here’s an outline of what you need to know.
Movement restrictions at night
While the 24-hour lockdown is not currently in effect, and movement permits are no longer required to leave the house in the day for essential goods, there is still a curfew in place. From the hours of 10pm until 6am, residents must stay home. If you are required to be out of the house during this time, a movement permit must be obtained.
Only leave the house if it is necessary
Yes, there has been partial lifts on lockdown rules, but official authorities are advising for residents to only leave the house unless it’s necessary. The same #StayHome policy is encouraged.
Masks must be worn
If you do leave the house, a mask must be worn. If you’re caught without one, you could risk being slapped with a Dhs1,000 fine.
Exercise is now allowed
Residents are now allowed to exercise outside for two hours each day, in groups of up to three people. Of course, social distancing measures must be implemented and face masks must be worn.
Public transport is back up and running
Public transport around Dubai including the metro, taxis and buses is now back up and running as of Sunday, April 26. Operating hours of public transport will be from 7am to 11pm, but passenger numbers will be limited.
What is open?
Some malls across Dubai have partially reopened including the Mall of the Emirates, with the operating hours of 12pm to 10pm, but facilities like cinemas and Ski Dubai still remain closed. The Dubai Mall is set to reopen on Tuesday, April 28 between the hours of 12pm to 10pm.
Shoppers will only be allowed to visit malls for a maximum of three hours and must wear a mask. Mall-goers will also be required to go through health checks at the entrances upon arriving. Similarly, social distancing practices will also need to be adhered to. Age limits will also apply for entry to malls. Children from ages three to 12 and those over 60 will not be permitted to enter malls, and shopping centres will only be able to operate a maximum of 30 per cent capacity.
Restaurants and bars are also permitted to take customers, and are allowed to serve food and soft drinks. However, the establishments are only permitted to operate at 30 per cent capacity, and must ensure social distancing measures are implemented.
Selected salons are also open but, again, social distancing measures must be adhered to, and you must book an appointment in advance.
Visiting family and friends during Ramadan
According to an announcement made via the Dubai Media Office on Friday, April 24, gatherings are permitted to take place between families and close friends, but no more than five people are allowed, and Ramadan tents and Majilises are “strictly prohibited”. Social distancing practices must still be implemented at gatherings, and physical greetings are not permitted.
Are offices back up and running?
Yes and no. The Supreme Committee of Crisis and Disaster Management has eased restrictions for those who usually working in offices. However, the authority has said people should only be working from office premises if it’s absolutely vital, and should not exceed a 30 per cent capacity. Face masks must also be worn at all times and employees will be subjected to undergoing temperature checks. Ramadan working hours are also currently in place.
Here’s hoping things go back to normal sooner than later, but for now this will do.
