UAE Covid-19 measures extended until Ramadan

Decision part of the country's integrated plan to combat pandemic, says Dubai's Supreme Committee

A Covid-19 vaccination centre in Dubai's International Financial Centre district. AFP

A masked falconer entertains tourists at Dubai's historic Al Fahidi neighbourhood. AFP

Cove Beach at Caesars Palace, Dubai. Reuters

Fitness enthusiasts in Dubai return to gyms as Covid-19 restrictions ease. Antonie Robertson / The National

Coronavirus vaccine shipment arrives at Dubai International Airport. AFP

The number of joggers has increased steadily along Dubai's Palm Jumeirah island in recent months. EPA

A nationwide vaccination and screening drive in Dubai has been credited for helping to limit the spread of Covid-19. Dubai Media Office

Temperature scanners at Dubai International Airport are one of several measures introduced by the emirate to help detect Covid-19 among travellers. AP

The UAE's Covid-19 precautionary measures will be extended until at least the start of Ramadan in mid-April, Dubai’s Supreme Committee of Crisis and Disaster Management said on Friday.

The decision is based on an evaluation of the evolving Covid situation, said the committee.

Data shows the effectiveness of the intensified safety measures implemented in February.

The committee, which is headed by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, said the country's latest response is part of an integrated plan to combat the pandemic.

It urged the public to continue observing the precautionary measures, stressing that these remain the most effective way of combating the virus.

Commending the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority and the Ministry of Health and Prevention for their success in co-ordinating counter-pandemic measures, the committee said it will continue to monitor local and international developments to ensure the optimal response.

The UAE reported 3,498 new cases of Covid-19 on Friday, after an additional 187,176 tests. A further 2,478 patients recovered, while 16 died.

The committee also praised the pace of the coronavirus vaccination drive.

More than 5.8 million vaccine doses and more than 30 million tests had been administered in the UAE as of February 25.

The country has one of the highest vaccination and testing rates globally.

These figures demonstrate the strength and preparedness of the UAE’s healthcare system, the committee said.

The UAE precautionary measures being extended until Ramadan

• Indoor venues, including cinemas and entertainment and sports venues, will continue to operate at 50 per cent of capacity and under intensified precautionary measures.

• Capacity at shopping malls and hotels – including hotel swimming pools and private beaches – will be limited to 70 per cent.
• Restaurants and cafes will be required to close by 1am.
• Pubs and bars will remain closed.
• Intensified monitoring and inspection campaigns will continue to ensure strict compliance with measures, including physical distancing and wearing masks.