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Wearing of face masks in some public places in the UAE is no longer mandatory, according to the Ministry of Health and Community Protection and the National Emergency Crisis (MoHaP) and Disaster Management (NCME).
Social distancing of at least two metres will still be mandatory.
According to the statement, face masks will no longer be required among those who exercise in public, visit public swimming pools and beaches, as well as those who share a private vehicle with members of the same household.
People who undergo diagnostics or treatment in medical centres and clinics, those who are alone in closed spaces, and customers who visit barbershops and beauty salons for personal services on one’s face and head, will also need not wear masks.
The decision comes after a “noticeable” decline in the number of COVID-19 cases in the country, a government statement said.
According to NCEMA, all indicators now point to a return to new normal. “One of the most important factors for the UAE’s success in decreasing the number of cases is the positive community role and their commitment to preventive measure,” NCEMA said.
The public is advised to continue to adhere to the precautionary and preventive measures, like wearing of face masks and observing physical distancing. Everyone is also advised to “make regular testing a habit”.
The UAE has one of the highest vaccination rates in the world. After months of massive vaccination, the COVID-19 daily case count in the country has dropped to less than 500, a huge decline from over 3,600 cases in January this year.
(Writing by Cleofe Maceda; editing by Seban Scaria )
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© ZAWYA 2021