Over the last eight months throughout the global pandemic, wearing masks in the UAE has become part of the new normal.
However, it has now been announced that those who have medical conditions that are heightened by wearing a mask could apply for exemption from wearing one.
In an announcement by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) and Dubai Police, it was stated that residents in the emirate who have certain medical conditions affected by wearing a mask could be granted permission not to wear one.
Permits can be applied for via http://dxbpermit.gov.ae. The application must include a medically certified report detailing the health issue at hand and Emirates ID details also need to be given.
DHA’s General Medical Committee Office will evaluate the applications, which must include a medical report confirming the applicant suffers from medical problems that can be aggravated by face masks. The application will be processed within five days.
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) November 9, 2020
“DHA’s General Medical Committee Office will evaluate the applications, which must include a medical report confirming the applicant suffers from medical problems that can be aggravated by face masks,” Dubai Media Office stated. “The application will be processed within five days.”
The Dubai Media Office also outlined those who could be eligible for mask exemptions:
- Those suffering from fungal dermatitis, especially if they have severe symptoms in the face like bleeding, itching and scaly skin.
- Those allergic to any component of a mask (allergic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, contact urticaria).
- Individuals with severe herpes simplex infection that affects the mouth, nose or face.
- Individuals with acute and uncontrolled chronic sinusitis.
- Patients with uncontrolled asthma
- People of Determination who have mental and psychological conditions.
The authority also stressed that while those who are granted an exemption are not required to wear a mask, it is advised that they should wear one where possible in order to minimise the risk of infection for both themselves and others.
