UAE eases Covid rules: 6 changes you need to know

UAE eases Covid rules: 6 changes you need to know

New guidelines about wearing masks, social distancing, PCR tests and more explained

Published: Mon 26 Sep 2022, 8:03 PM Last updated: Mon 26 Sep 2022, 9:11 PM

Most Covid rules have been relaxed in the UAE, with the government announcing sweeping changes to precautionary measures that have been in place for nearly two-and-a-half years. The new rules will come into force from Wednesday, September 28.

A government spokesperson applauded residents’ commitment to the rules, highlighting how they have helped the country stabilise the Covid situation. Daily infections continue to decline and deaths caused by the virus remain virtually zero.

"Despite the stability of the situation, the Covid-19 virus is still present among us. The next stage requires us to put public health at the very top of our priority list,” the spokesperson cautioned.

Coincidentally, the relaxed rules come on the 1,000th day since the first Covid-19 case was reported to the World Health Organisation.

Here is the full list of changes:

— Mask rules

Masks have been made optional in most public areas, including schools.

They remain mandatory in mosques, places of worship, medical facilities and public transportation means.

They are mandatory for Covid patients and suspected cases.

They are recommended for the elderly, those with chronic diseases and people of