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To curb the spread of Coronavirus in the emirate, authorities have extended the National Sterilisation Programme
6 April 2020
| Last updated on 19 April 2020.png "Coronavirus in Dubai Updates")
New travel restrictions were imposed in Dubai this week - here's what you can and can't do during the COVID-19 crisis pandemic in the emirate.
Since initial restrictions were introduced mid-March, Dubai authorities have been working rapidly to implement and enforce strict guidelines for residents and citizens in an effort to curb the spread of Coronavirus.
Due to the situation changing on a daily basis, there has understandably been a lot of confusion, rumours, and even fake news, spreading online among social media channels and groups.
As the National Sterilisation Programme has been extended and new restrictions have been imposed this week - from Sunday 5th April for to weeks - we wanted to clarify some uncertainties for our readers so they understand exactly what is expected of each citizen as per the regulations in place.
Here's everything you need to know about Dubai's restrictions in place due to COVID-19...
Dubai's travel restrictions
Since confirmed cases are rising on a daily basis across the UAE, here are the new regulations in place that all citizens and residents are expected to follow:
1. You MUST apply for a moving permit before leaving your home
Before leaving your home for any reason mentioned below, you must apply for a moving permit from Dubai Police. You should first input your mobile number for an OTP, and then with the login number provided, you can complete the form and state where you are going, at what time, and when you will return home.
If you are stopped by a Dubai Police officer, they can check your journey was permitted and you should also have a confirmation SMS to show, also.
Moving permits are required for all modes of transport; whether by car, by metro, by bus, or by walking/cycling.
2. Only one member of a household can leave home for essentials
Essentials covers shopping in supermarkets and pharmacies only. Make sure you have a moving permit in place before leaving your home.
3. If required, journeys to/from the hospital or doctors clinics are allowed
Make sure you have a moving permit in place before leaving the home.
In case of an emergency, in which you are unable to submit a moving permit and wait for its approval, you risk being given a fine by a radar. If this occurs, we recommend you keep evidence of your medical emergency and/or receipts so you are able to present these to Dubai Police and/or RTA to dispute the fine afterwards.
4. A face mask and gloves MUST be worn at ALL times outside
Despite previous guidelines that stipulated only those with weakened respiratory systems or symptoms should wear face masks, these updated guidelines specifically state that, when leaving your home for ANY reason, you must wear a face mask and gloves at all times.
This includes in your car, walking to/from the car or store, and also while inside the supermarket and/or pharmacy. This also applies to visits to the hospital and doctors office.
:: Officials have given stern warnings to all citizens and residents, and anyone found outside of their home without good reason will be fined and/or even prosecuted in court.
What is the National Sterilisation Programme?
The UAE's National Sterilisation Programme was first launched on March 26, 2020 in an effort to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus outbreak. Since April 5, this has been extended in Dubai to 24 hours a day across all areas and communities in the emirate.
The initiative, which was first limited to the hours of 8pm to 6am daily is now 24 hours, and the disinfection plan will continue across the emirate for two weeks.
All community members are required to stay home during the disinfection period, unless they have a move permit for necessities. This allows authorities to disinfect public spaces, facilities and communities to combat COVID-19.
Please note: This information is correct at the time of writing. Things are changing on a daily basis but we endeavour to make sure the correct, up-to-date information is shared with our readers.
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