“I heard from a friend that exercising outdoors is allowed.”
“Umm, but my neighbor Susan said it’s okay to take the kids out.”
“What about going out for a family dinner. I bet there’s no restriction on that.”
Are you riddled with similar questions ever since the news about easing of Dubai’s lockdown came out?
Many of Dubai’s lockdown restrictions have been lifted. But before you get out to celebrate, remind yourself that the pandemic hasn’t come to an end. And once that reality check is out of the way, continue reading our comprehensive article about what’s allowed and what’s not.
The lockdown has been lifted, so are things back to normal?
While the most stringent of restrictions have been removed, certain aspects of the lockdown still apply. Residents are allowed to leave their home from 6 am to 10 pm without requiring a permit. However, you must stay home between 10 pm to 6 am daily, with the exception of having to leave for a medical emergency.
You’re also required to wear a mask whenever you need to step out, and the fine for not abiding by this rule is a hefty AED 1,000. The standard social distancing rule of maintaining a 2 meter (or six feet) distance between yourself and others still applies.
What about the total lockdown in some parts of Deira?
Residents of two of Dubai’s most densely populated areas in Deira – Al Ras and Naif – are breathing a sigh of relief as the 24-hour lockdown restrictions are eased. The barricades isolating these communities to contain the spread of Coronavirus have now been removed, allowing residents to finally leave their homes and neighborhood. Going forward, these areas will be subject to the same Dubai-wide restrictions on movement between 10 pm to 6 am everyday.
What does it mean for those observing Ramadan?
While Muslims across the Emirate are celebrating the fact that they can visit relatives, invite family over for Iftar and Suhoor, as well as go out to shop for Ramadan supplies during the Holy Month, certain restrictions will have to be kept in mind. Prayers in mosques, public gatherings, communal prayers and Ramadan tents will not be allowed this year. You’re also only allowed to have a maximum of five visitors at home, with people being urged to meet only first and second degree relatives at most.
Can I go out to shop, dine and pamper myself like the good old days?
Malls, retail outlets, cafes and restaurants will now be open daily for ten hours, from 12 noon to 10 pm. However, you may have some trouble getting access to some of the more popular spots, as these establishments can now only operate at 30% visitor capacity. Hotels, cafes and restaurants are also prohibited from offering Shisha and buffet services. Only 25% of parking spots will be available to discourage overcrowding in malls. Keep in mind that children between 3 to 12 years of age, and those above 60 years of age will not be allowed in malls.
If you’re visiting a salon, be sure to book a prior appointment. Also keep in mind that salons are only permitted to offer hair and nail services as of now.
Which places are off-limits?
Cinemas, family entertainment destinations (like gaming arcades, indoor play zones, water parks and recreational parks), clubs, pools, gyms and spas, will continue to be closed to the public.
Although gyms are closed, you can still exercise outdoors, provided you do not leave your community or area of residence. Only a maximum of three people can exercise together, and outdoor activities like cycling, walking or running must be limited to 1-2 hours at a time.
What about public transport?
Starting Sunday, April 26th, Dubai public transport services, including the Dubai Metro will resume regular services and standard tariff rates will apply. Commuters are expected to adhere to the rule of wearing a mask at all times and maintaining appropriate distance from others. Taxis are only allowed to seat a maximum of two passengers at a time.
Is my domestic help allowed to go out on her day off?
Domestic staff are not allowed to meet anyone outside their place of work/residence. As a sponsor you must make them aware of how to safely handle home-deliveries and provide them with adequate protective gear like a mask and gloves when they are required to deal with outsiders. If your domestic help isn’t aware of the new regulations, make sure you let them know of the latest developments to avoid any misunderstandings.
We hope that answers most of your questions about the lockdown restrictions being lifted. In case we’ve missed something, please feel free to type in your question in the comments section below, and we’ll get back to you in a jiffy.