Coronavirus: Sharjah bars workers from leaving the emirate

Those who break the rule will be fined

SHARJAH, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES. 26 MARCH 2020. Sharjah Municipal staff ready themselves and prepare to head to out at the main Enviroment Services Department of the Sharjah Municipality. Large scale disinfecting of the streets of Sharjah took place after the mandatory 8pm curfew. A strong police precense was assisting during the exercise. (Photo: Antonie Robertson/The National) Journalist: None. Section: National.Show less

Sharjah has barred its workers from leaving the emirate to control the spread of Covid-19 outbreak.

In addition, non-residents workers from other emirates will not be allowed to enter the city, said the Department of Economic Development in Sharjah (SEDD).

“This is to protect the personal health and safety of the workers,” said Sultan Abdullah bin Hadda Al Suwaidi, chairman of SEDD.

Workers who break the rule will be fined, a circular issued by the department said.

“The decision restricts workers’ movement between Sharjah and other emirates in the other country. It is part of the precautionary and preventive measures aimed at preserving public health,” Al Suwaidi said.

The decision excludes cleaning workers and those employed in the food industry and private security companies.

“It is important for all companies to cooperate with SEDD in implementing the decision, and in taking precautionary measures in worker accommodations to control the spread of the virus.

“Everyone should maintain the highest levels of hygiene, and visit a hospital if there is any doubt that a worker may be infected with the virus.”

Mr Al Suwaidi urged workers to wear face masks and maintain a safe distance of two metres from each other.