UAE to ease COVID-19 restrictions: Here are the latest updates

The UAE plans to drop mask mandates in most places starting this week as coronavirus cases drop in the country, according to the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority (NCEMA). Here is all you need to know:

MASK NOT MANDATORY: Wearing a face mask is optional in open and closed facilities from Wednesday, September 28.

PUBLIC PLACES: Masks will still be mandatory at medical facilities, mosques and on public transportation.

MASKS NOT MANDATORY IN SCHOOLS: Starting from September 28, face masks will no longer be required at private schools, early childhood centres, universities and training institutes in UAE

MOSQUES AND PLACES OF WORSHIPS: Wearing face masks is mandatory in mosques and places of worship to protect the health of vulnerable community members, including senior citizens and people with chronic diseases.

NO SOCIAL DISTANCING: In mosques and places of worship, precautionary procedures have been reduced, and social distancing for people coming for prayers is no longer required.

WEARING MASK ON FLIGHTS: Wearing mask onboard the flights will no longer be mandatory, however airlines will determine whether or not masks are required.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS: The requirements for pre-departure testing for vaccinated and unvaccinated people will be determined at the request of travel destinations. As of those coming to the country, the current protocol is still valid for vaccinated and unvaccinated.

GREEN PASS SYSTEM: ** A monthly PCR is required for vaccinated people. ** A PCR every 7 days is required for non-vaccinated. ** A mandatory prerequisites for employee to enter their workplaces in federal authorities. **Linking the green pass to the tourism and economic sectors.

SUSPECTED CASES: People who are suspected to be infected must put on a face mask. All those with chronic illnesses are advised to continue wearing masks, according to the NCEMA.

5-DAY ISOLATION: With regards to self-isolation for infected people, the health sector determined the reduction in the period of isolation to five days, whether domestic or institutional, and employers will be responsible for institutional isolation.

GUIDELINES FOR CLOSE CONTACTS: With regards to people exposed to infected cases, they must undergo a PCR test. We also urge vulnerable categories to undergo a lab test and monitor their condition for seven days.

COVID DAILY UPDATES: The UAE will stop announcing daily COVID-19 cases and updates will only be available at the official website of the Ministry of Health and Prevention, NCEMA and the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority.