COVID-19: Social distance guidelines for New Year’s Eve celebration in Dubai announced
Whether at a private party or a public celebration, follow these safety precautions
Dubai: The year 2020 has come to a close. If you are planning to celebrate the start of 2021 in Dubai, there are some basic precautionary guidelines that you will need to follow.
Dubai was among the first few cities in the world to resume events and activities after its effective management of the COVID-19 pandemic. Not only did the emirate get a ‘Safe Travels’ stamp awarded by the World Travel and Tourism Council, the emirate went on to launch the ‘Dubai Assured’ stamp to demonstrate to visitors that each hotel, restaurant, retail outlet and attraction was compliant with the strict safety and hygiene measures, in line with international health and safety standards and protocols.
Air travel resumed in July and visitors flocked back to the City of Gold, and as the year draws to a close, New Year’s Eve celebrations have been organised with an approach similar to the way Dubai has dealt with the entire year – with clear precautionary guidelines to prevent the spread of the virus and the message ‘Everyone is responsible’.
Public and private sector entities in Dubai are working closely to provide a safe and joyful environment during the New Year’s Eve celebrations. So, as you head to your friend’s house for a New Year Party or set your sights on one of the many attractions in Dubai that will display New Year’s Eve fireworks, these are the guidelines you need to follow.
Maximum people allowed in a private party - 30
In an announcement made on December 26, Dubai’s Supreme Committee of Crisis and Disaster Management informed people in Dubai to follow certain guidelines that need to be adhered to.
According to the Supreme Committee, private social gatherings of more than 30 people are prohibited.
No crowding – one person per four square metres
The Supreme Committee also specified that private social gatherings must comply with the rule of one person per four square metres of venue space.
Fines you need to be aware of
Penalties for private social gatherings that violate guidelines will be Dh50,000 for the host and Dh15,000 for each attendee, according to the announcement by the Committee.
Social distancing to be always maintained
Attendees must strictly comply with precautionary measures, including wearing face masks and observing social distancing at all times. Members of the community must avoid crowded places and large gatherings to watch the New Year’s Eve celebrations.
Who should avoid parties and gatherings?
The Supreme Committee also stressed on the need for elderly people, people with chronic conditions and people of determination to not attend private social gatherings.
Ensuring compliance
Inspections will be conducted to ensure compliance with the mandatory guidelines and fines will be issued to violators, according to the Supreme Committee. The preventive measures are aimed at safeguarding the community’s health and safety and adhering to the precautionary measures and guidelines is crucial to combating COVID-19.