It’s hard to believe we have all lived through over six months of a pandemic. Many countries, including the UAE, have gone through many different stages of lockdown, implemented social distancing measures and closed borders.
However, as of late, things have begun to return to a “new normal” with establishments such at retail outlets and restaurants reopening, but with strict measures in place to prevent the further spread of COVID-19.
Following the implementation of a curfew and 24-hour lockdown, along with the national sterilisation programme, life in the UAE has slowly returned to normal with malls, restaurants, hotels and more having reopened. Dubai also reopened its borders to tourists back in July.
However, over the past month or so, numbers have begun to increase with 930 new confirmed cases reported on September 10 – the highest number in a single day since May.
There were several announcements made and other rules have been reiterated to ensure the public adheres to the precautionary measures in place to stop the further spread of the virus.
Self-quarantine even if you test negative
During the COVID-19 press briefing last Thursday, Dr Farida Al Hosani, the official spokesperson for the UAE Ministry of Health, outlined that anyone who comes into contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case must self-isolate at home for 14 days, even if you receive a negative test.
“Anyone who comes in contact with a COVID-19 patient must self isolate,” she said. “A PCR test is not enough as the incubation period can reach up to 14 days. The PCR should be negative on the 14th day to step out.”
No public or private gatherings
This has been a rule in place since the beginning of the pandemic, and the UAE government has reiterated that people avoid gatherings. However, if they do take place they must be limited to a maximum of five people and social distancing measures must be adhered to.
Those who organise public or private gatherings which do not adhere to rules will be fined Dhs10,000. All participants in gatherings will be fined Dhs5,000 each.
Maximum three people in a car
This rule was implemented months ago and still applies – three people maximum are allowed in a car. If you do not adhere to the limit, it’s a Dhs3,000 fine.
Social distance and wear a mask
The best thing everyone can do right now is to continue to adhere to social distancing rules of two metres, where their masks when required, wash your hands regularly and follow the safety measures in place.
