Coronavirus rules in Dubai: your questions answered

From applying for a permit to seeking medical help…

With rules and official advice changing on daily basis, we’ve rounded up some of your most common Coronavirus questions in Dubai.

Can I leave the house?

On Saturday, April 4, Dubai’s Supreme Committee of Crisis & Disaster Management announced strict new measures to contain the spread of Covid-19. According to Dubai Media Office, residents must stay at home 24 hours a day, unless they:

• have a medical emergency
• are shopping for essentials
• work in a vital sector

On Twitter, Dubai Police‘s Maj-Gen Al Suwaidi confirmed that “A fine of Dhs3,000 will be issued against individuals violating the curfew set out during the National Sterilization Programme. The fine excludes individuals who seek to obtain essential supplies, such as food and medicine, and individuals working within previously announced sectors.”

Do I need a permit if I work in a vital sector?

No, but according to a Tweet from Dubai Media Office, you will need a letter from your employer stating your movements to and from work.

How do I apply for a permit?

Before making any trips outside, you must register for a permit via dxbpermit.gov.ae/home, outlining the reason for your journey, your destination, and the expected duration.

I just tried to apply for a permit, but it says I need to register my vehicle plate details. Do I need a permit to walk to the shops?

This is where things are less clear. We spoke to a representative at the support centre this morning (April 6), who told us that if you are walking to a doctor’s appointment or the grocery store, you don’t need to register for a permit, but you should keep any receipts as proof in order to avoid a fine.

How many people can leave the house at once?

Only one person is permitted to go out for essential supplies each time, and you must maintain a two-metre distance between yourself and anyone else.

The radars flashed at me when I was driving on Sunday. Will I receive a fine?

No. According to a Tweet from Dubai Media Office, radar violations recorded in Dubai from April 4 to April 5 will be cancelled.

Do I need a permit to drive through Dubai?

No. According to Dubai Police, “motorists passing through Dubai to other emirates will not activate the radars, provided they use inter-emirates roads (e.g. Mohammed Bin Zayed Road and Emirates Road) and do not stop in Dubai.”

Why didn’t I receive a discount on my taxi ride?

According to the RTA website: “During the National Disinfection hours, taxi services will be available via Careem and Uber apps. Taxi and limousine riders will get a 50% discount on their rides, as part of this initiative which RTA has launched to ease the mobility of individuals in sectors that are still on duty to deliver vital services to the community.” The RTA has advised on Twitter that it is currently rolling out the discount across its fleet. If you have not received a discount, submit your taxi number and ride details to the RTA and they will investigate.

I rode the bus yesterday and my Nol card was debited in full – shouldn’t it be free? 

According to a Tweet from RTA Dubai, the ticket price will be reimbursed to your Nol card after seven days.

Do I have to wear a face mask and gloves when I leave the house?

Yes, it is now mandatory to wear a face mask and gloves whenever you leave the house, and to maintain physical distance.

I can’t buy face masks anywhere. What should I do?

At a pinch, you could try making a DIY face mask. We understand this is not going to offer the same level of protection as a medical-grade mask, but it may help you lessen the spread of any illnesses, and help you avoid a fine. If you’ve noticed an unfair price hike on face masks and other essentials, Dubai Economy (DED) invites you to register a complaint at price.ded.ae

I have coronavirus symptoms. What should I do?

If you have a fever or flu-like symptoms, the Okadoc website is a good place to start. You can chat to a doctor online, or find your nearest hospital or clinic that offers Covid-19 testing. Do not go to your regular clinic without first calling them in advance. In case of a medical emergency, call 999 for a government ambulance.

Image: Unsplash

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