COVID-19 in UAE: Masks not mandatory in some public places

Two meter distance is mandatory although the face mask is not necessary in some locations in the UAE.

People must maintain a social distance of two metres

Authorities in the UAE have removed the mandatory requirement of wearing masks in some public places. People must maintain a social distance of two metres, the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) announced on Wednesday, September 22.

Residents don't need to wear masks when exercising in public places. Masks are also not mandatory when members of the same household are travelling in their private vehicles. Swimming pool- and beach-goers are not required to wear it either.

Other places where the mask rule does not apply include closed places when individuals are alone; salons and beauty centres and medical centres.

Signs will come up at places where masks are not required.

The Ministry of Health and Prevention stressed that masks remain mandatory in all other public places. "Masks remain one of the most effective tools in fighting the virus," the NCEMA said.

The decision came after the number of daily Covid-19 cases decreased by 60 per cent in August this year as compared to the same period last year. On Tuesday, the country recorded just 322 new cases.

The UAE is also the most vaccinated country in the world, with over 92 per cent residents having received at least one dose, and over 81 per cent fully vaccinated.