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The UAE government has relaxed rules about the use of face masks in some public places after a fall in the number of new cases of Covid-19.
Previously, members of the public were required to wear masks almost everywhere outside their homes.
The new rule affects Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah.
In other words, it covers everywhere except Dubai, which sets its own coronavirus regulations and has already previously eased restrictions on the mandatory use of masks.
So what are the new rules in the other six emirates? And when do you have to wear a mask in Dubai?
The National explains.
When do people no longer have to wear masks?
On Wednesday, the Ministry of Health and Prevention said masks are no longer needed in the following situations:
- When exercising outside
- At the beach or by the pool
- While in a car with people from the same household
- While alone in an indoor place
- If in a barber shop or salon
- While undergoing diagnosis and treatment at medical centres
People can also remove their masks when seated at a restaurant. But they must put them back on if they are walking around.
Masks can also be temporarily removed when people are eating or drinking while at the cinema. They must, however, be worn after they finish.
In all other public places, including public and private gatherings, masks are still required.
These new rules are applicable in Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah.
What about Dubai?
The emirate eased rules about masks in late May 2020.
Since then, people have been allowed to remove their masks temporarily under certain conditions.
They are:
- During specific treatments, such as dental or eye, nose or throat examinations
- In the office when alone and not surrounded by others
- During rigorous exercise
- While driving alone or with members of the same family
Like in Abu Dhabi, people can also remove their masks when seated at a restaurant in Dubai. But they must put them back on if they are walking around.
Masks can also be temporarily removed when people are eating or drinking while at the cinema. They must, however, be worn after they finish.
In all other public places, including public and private gatherings, masks are still required.
Are masks still required outside?
Yes, all across the country masks are still required outside, unless the person is exercising.
At what age do children have to start wearing masks?
Mask-wearing is advised for children over the age of two “if they do not have a breathing difficulty or any chronic disease,” according to authorities.
But it is not mandatory until the child is six years old.
Children must be able to remove the masks on their own when needed.
Is anyone exempt from wearing a mask?
Yes, several categories of people are exempt.
These include
- Children under six
- Disabled people who suffer from cognitive, intellectual or sensory disorders that prevent them from being able to breathe or communicate normally
- Anyone who suffers from sensory triggering as a result of mask use. A medical report is required in this case
- Anyone who requires supplemental oxygen or suffers from severe respiratory issues, or struggles to breathe with a mask on. A medical report is required
What is the fine for not wearing a mask when you should be?
Anyone who is found not wearing a mask will be fined Dh3,000.
Review of face masks - in pictures
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Cloth reusable facemasks are more environmentally sound than disposable ones, but must be washed every 24 hours to remain effective. All photos by Reem Mohammed / The National -
Surgical masks are cheap and effective if worn correctly but create mountains of waste once they are disposed of after each use. -
Fineguard manufactures face coverings in the UAE using Livinguard materials that repel viruses. A range of lightweight masks are designed for exercise. -
The ViroMasks viroblock mask has a double filter to ease breathing and block 95 per cent of viruses. -
At Dh699, the LG Puricare wearable air purifier mask is the most expensive in the UAE. -
LG’s Puricare wearable air purifier mask is rechargeable and has two filters and three settings to respond to respiration rates.
