Dubai Airports says masks no longer required in terminals

Masks are optional in most public places from Wednesday

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  A member of staff takes down signage urging pupils to keep wearing masks at Brighton College in Dubai. Schools no longer require children and teachers to wear masks. All photos: Chris Whiteoak / The National

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  Masks are no longer mandatory at schools. The relaxation of Covid-19 protocols comes amid a sharp drop in infection rates in recent months.

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  Kirk, aged 18, with Michael Darby, head of science, conducts an experiment without face masks at Brighton College in Dubai.

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  Pupils in a Year 6 class at Brighton College study without their masks.

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  Mr Tavner teaches a Year 5 class on Wednesday morning. Masks are no longer mandatory at schools such as Brighton College in Dubai.

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  Pupils in a Year 6 class study without masks after Covid-19 rules were relaxed.

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  Antonio studies in his Year 6 class.

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  Mrs Clayton teaches her Year 3 class, who no longer have to wear masks.

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  A pupil in a Year 3 class at Brighton College. Masks are no longer mandatory at schools in the UAE.

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  Year 8 drama students at Brighton College perform without face masks for the first time in more than two and a half years.

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  Pupils in a Year 5 class at Brighton School in Dubai. From Wednesday, schools nationwide will not require children or teachers to wear masks.

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  Pupils in a Year 6 class at Brighton College. Masks are no longer mandatory at schools.

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  Pupils in a Year 3 class enjoy school without masks.

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  Myla, 10, studies in Year 6 at Brighton College on Wednesday morning. Masks are no longer mandatory at UAE schools.

Masks will be optional in Dubai Airports from Wednesday, officials have confirmed.

The decision comes as Emirates and Flydubai also confirmed that flights do not have to be worn on services into the city.

"It is not mandatory for passengers to wear face masks at Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai World Central (DWC) effective Wednesday, September 28, 2022," a statement from the airport operator read.

"Based on their specific requirements or the rules applicable at intermediate or final destinations, airlines can however request passengers to wear the face mask on board if deemed necessary.

"The well-being of all our customers and staff is our topmost priority and Dubai Airports works closely with regulatory authorities, airlines and service partners to ensure a safe and healthy airport environment."

Etihad Airways said on Tuesday that masks on its flights are optional “following the easing of Covid-19 restrictions in Abu Dhabi”.

Schools, offices, malls and public places took down mask signs on Tuesday, ahead of the loosening of restrictions on Wednesday.