Abu Dhabi Goes Into Partial Lockdown From July 19 To Prevent Spread Of Covid Variants

The National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority announced a set of protocols ahead of Eid Al Adha celebrations. Firstly, all mosques in the UAE will open doors to allow worshippers to perform prayers during the festival. However, all worshippers must adhere to the covid protocols that have been put in place. Meanwhile, Abu Dhabi has announced a partial lockdown starting from July 19, every day between midnight and 5 am to prevent the spread of Covid-19 variants.

What Are The Rules For Abu Dhabi’s Partial Lockdown?

Abu Dhabi residents have been urged to stay at home unless it’s absolutely necessary to step out. From July 19 onwards, every day, there will be a partial curfew from midnight till 5 am. The authorities will carry on the sterilisation drive at this time. Movement of traffic and the public will not be permitted. For essential supplies, people need a permit from Abu Dhabi Police. Parks, swimming pools, public and private beaches, cafes, gyms, spas, hotels, buses, public ferries, restaurants all will operate at 50 per cent capacity from July 19. Malls will function at 40 per cent and cinemas at 30 per cent capacity.

What Are The Rules In Place For Eid Al Adha?

Mosques and musallahs will open 15 minutes before the Eid prayer and close immediately after. Besides, worshippers are strictly prohibited from practicing handshaking and hugs before and after the prayer. No gathering will be permitted at the places of worship before or after the prayer. According to the Eid protocols, elderly people and those with chronic diseases and children under the age of 12 are advised to offer the Eid prayer at home.

Worshippers must bring their own rugs. Those infected with COVID-19, or have close contacts with infected ones, will not be allowed to attend the prayers. UAE residents have been urged to avoid family visits and gatherings during the Eid holidays. “Celebrations must be restricted to members of the same family who live in the same house,” the spokesperson said.

How Can You Make Eid Donations?

Worshippers can make the Eid donation via DubaiNow app. Dubai Digital Authority launched the ‘Eid Sacrifice — Udhiya’ service, a new concept launched within the DubaiNow app. This allows users to request and distribute their sacrifice and pay for it, whether they are inside or outside the UAE. It also enables users to request a portion of the udhiya, while following Covid-19 precautionary measures.

Are Family Gatherings Allowed?

The National Emergency, Crisis and Disasters Management Authority (NCEMA) urged residents to avoid family gatherings and celebrate through virtual means. Furthermore, gifting must also be done though virtual modes, to eliminate risks of infection. Both Abu Dhabi and Dubai police have announced a fine of AED 10,000 for those organising gatherings – and a fine of AED 5,000 for each of the participants attending them. Meanwhile, here’s the Full List Of Updated Fines In The UAE.

Meanwhile, did you know This Is The World’s Only Place To Be Unaffected And Immune To Coronavirus.

Vaishnavi Venkataraman: Research, science labs and of course nerdy glasses – that’s what my life was all about until I finally woke up to realise how much I loved food, travel and telling tales. A chai addict, a moody writer and mother to a smallie, my journey as a writer began with The Times of India. And now, here I am in Dubai pursuing my passion and exploring a new city, all in one go!