The UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) and the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) have issued a statement that removes the requirement to wear a facemask in certain places while maintaining a safe physical distance of two meters.
According to the entities, the decision is based on a significant reduction in COVID-19 cases reported across the country. UAE’s nationwide testing facilities which enabled early detection, availability of multiple vaccine and other precautionary methods adopted by the people contributed to this successful recovery.
The new rule states that the face mask is no longer mandatory when exercising in public places, commuting in private vehicles for those who live in the same house, or at open beaches and swimming pools.
Masks are also not required for individuals who are alone in enclosed places, or at salons and beauty centres for facial and haircuts as well as in the diagnostic and treatment services in medical centres and clinics.
Local authorities have been ordered by the government to put signs indicating where it is permissible to “not wear a mask” and to maintain the two-meter physical distance rule.
While mandating to wearing mask has been lifted in some places, both MOHAP and NCEMA have reaffirmed the importance of wearing a face mask where it is obligatory to do so noting that researches have proved that using face mask was the most important thing which helped to prevent further spreading of COVID-19.
They have also mentioned that those who do not obey with the requirement to wear a face mask in places where it is obligated will be fined. The entities emphasized the importance of following the relevant authorities’ preventive and precautionary measures to ensure the health and safety of all members of society.
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