NCEMA urges public to be responsible during New Year's Eve celebrations

People are being urged to follow all COVID-19 precautionary measures while attending New Year's eve celebrations.

That's according to Dr. Saif Al Dhaheri, the official spokesperson for the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA), who spoke during a press briefing on Thursday. 

Dr. Al Dhaheri reminded members of the public to wear their masks and practice social distancing in public spaces at all times. 

This evening, the #UAE is witnessing many events and celebrations to welcome the new year, so let us all celebrate and commit to abiding by all precautionary measures and instructions accompanying these events, so that we and our families and our loved ones can celebrate safely.

— NCEMA UAE (@NCEMAUAE) December 31, 2020

He said legal action will be taken against violators and fines will be issued to those who aren't following the rules. 

NCEMA's official spokesperson explained that the efforts of the National Committee for the Management and Governance of the COVID-19 pandemic continue to achieve targets that can ensure a gradual return to normal life. 

We also confirm that the application of penalties is still in effect, and the authorities are monitoring violations in public places, and control teams will be activated at the state level to ensure compliance with the approved laws and procedures.#CommitToWin

— NCEMA UAE (@NCEMAUAE) December 31, 2020

"The UAE has shown model behaviour in managing the crisis, as it succeeded from the start in balancing health and the economy to ensure the continued work of various vital sectors, especially as we entered the planning stage for recovery," said Dr. Al Dhaheri.

Residents are also being urged to reward frontline workers, who have worked tirelessly to contain the spread of the virus in the country, by being responsible and celebrating safely.