A combo image shows vehicles line-up at checkpoints outside Abu Dhabi on Tuesday.

Hundreds and hundreds of cars queued up at checkpoints on the way to Abu Dhabi after the entry and exit ban of vehicles came into effect on Tuesday.

Abu Dhabi Police have called upon all road users obtain permits before moving to avoid traffic.

A video circulating on social media shows

Emirati security forces man checkpoints at the entrance of Abu Dhabi on the highway linking Dubai.

Authorities cordoned off the city for a week to rein in the novel coronavirus.

The ban on movement in — entering and exiting – the emirate of Abu Dhabi also covers the regions Al Ain and Al Dhafrah.

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”