Photo has been used for illustrative purposes.

Mohammed Alaa, Staff Reporter

The ban on movement in – entering and exiting – the emirate of Abu Dhabi and between its regions (Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Al Dhafrah) will be effective from Tuesday, 2 June for a week. The decision was issued by the Abu Dhabi Emergency and Crisis Committee for the COVID-19 pandemic on Sunday in collaboration with Abu Dhabi Police and Department of Health.

In accordance with the updated regulations for the list of violations, fines and administrative penalties related to combating COVID-19, those who fail to abide by the decision will be fined Dhs3,000, unless the purpose of exit is to purchase essentials or medicines, confirmed the Abu Dhabi Police.

The ban covers all Abu Dhabi residents, including UAE nationals. Exemptions are available by special permit for employees in vital sectors, chronic disease patients visiting hospitals and the transportation of necessary goods.

Movement within each region is allowed in line with National Sterilisation Programme hours.

This step aims to enhance the effectiveness of the National Screening Programme, in line with a series of precautionary and preventive measures being taken to reduce contact, curb the spread of COVID-19, and protect the health and safety of all community members.

The authorities said, “To apply for a permit visit https://es.adpolice.gov.ae/en/movepermit”

Food outlets, cooperatives, groceries, supermarkets, and pharmacies are still allowed to operate 24/7, confirmed the authorities. In line with the National Screening Programme, the Abu Dhabi Emergency and Crisis Committee for the COVID-19 pandemic, in collaboration with Department of Health, has eased some restrictions on activities in the emirate, including raising the capacity in malls and restaurants inside malls to 40%.

Hotel beaches, restaurants outside malls and museums are also allowed to re-open with a capacity of 40 per cent. Public beaches remain closed.

Individual outdoor sports practised in open spaces, such as horseriding, cricket, cycling, golf, sailing and racquet sports, are also now allowed for people aged 12-60, starting from Monday, June 1.