According to latest announcement by the Dubai Supreme Committee of Crisis and Disaster Management, headed by Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Covid-19 precautionary measures that were introduced in the beginning of February would be extended further until the start of Ramadan in mid-April.
The decision has been taken after taking into consideration the current Covid-19 situation data, the effectiveness of intensified safety measures and the recommendation of frontline authorities.
The country’s response to the pandemic forms a part of an integrated plan to combat Covid-19, the Committee said. While appreciating the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) and the Ministry of Health and Prevention for their success in managing the pandemic measures, the Committee agreed to continue to monitor local and international developments to ensure optimal response.
The Committee also hailed the pace of Covid-19 vaccination drive in Dubai and the UAE. As of 25th February, over 5.8 million vaccine doses, and more than 30 million tests have been administered in the UAE.
The country has one of the highest vaccinations and testing rates globally. The figures indicate the readiness of the UAE’s healthcare system, the Committee said.
Precautionary measures that would be extended include:
- Precautionary measures that would be extended until start of Ramadan include:
- Indoor venues, including cinemas, entertainment and sports will operate at 50 percent maximum capacity and under strict precautionary measures.
- Shopping malls, hotel establishments, swimming pools and private beaches in hotels will be permitted to limit 70 percent of total capacity.
- Restaurants and cafes will close by 1am, while pubs/bars will continue to remain shut.
- Strict monitoring and inspection campaigns will continue to ensure proper adherence to precautionary measures, including wearing of facemasks and physical distancing.
The Committee has urged the public to continue to follow the precautionary measures, and emphasized that their commitment is crucial to counter the pandemic. The community members are also encouraged to report violations of Covid-19 precautionary measures by individuals or establishments by contacting the Dubai Police at 901 or through it ‘Police Eye’ service in the Dubai Police Smart App.
