UAE revamps facemask rule

Shutterstock [For illustration]

Wearing a facemask is no longer mandatory in most public spaces across the UAE, including educational institutions.

This was announced during the UAE government's special COVID-19 media briefing on Monday.

It's still mandatory to wear a mask in medical facilities, places of worship and public transportation.

All food service providers and confirmed and suspected cases of COVID-19 must also do the same.

The changes will come into effect on Wednesday, September 28.

Meanwhile, the Green Pass system on Al Hosn app remains in place but its validity has been changed to 30 days for those vaccinated and seven days for the unvaccinated.

As per the latest rules, the isolation period for those infected with COVID-19 has been reduced to five days, while close contacts need to get tested only if they have symptoms.

Other changes include:

  • Social distancing will not be required in places of worship.
  • Daily COVID-19 case numbers will no longer be announced by the government. COVID-related data and other updates will be published on the official websites of the Ministry of Health & Prevention, NCEMA and the Federal Competitiveness & Statistics Centre.
  • It will be up to the airlines to decide whether to enforce the mask on board aircraft.

The decision to ease restrictions comes following a sharp drop in daily infections in recent weeks and almost zero deaths recorded for nearly three months.

The National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority (NCEMA) said the updated procedures are a result of continuous and active  monitoring of the COVID-19 infection and hospitalisation rates across the Emirates.

More from Local News

News

  • Dubai Police Arrest Cybercrime Gang

    Dubai Police have arrested a cybercrime gang that orchestrated a large-scale online fraud operation by promoting fake trading and investment schemes via social media platforms.

  • Dubai RTA Completes 22 New Bus Stations

    The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced the completion of 22 new public bus stations across Dubai, a significant step forward in the emirate’s mission to expand and modernise its public transportation infrastructure.

  • Dubai Police urge vigilance over children’s online gaming

    With summer vacation in full swing and children spending more time on video gaming, Dubai Police are urging parents to step up supervision to protect kids from online dangers.