Coronavirus: Am I allowed to leave Abu Dhabi? UAE movement ban questions answered

The United Arab Emirates’ capital Abu Dhabi has banned movement in and out of the emirate, as well as between its cities starting Tuesday, as part of its mass testing efforts to curb the coronavirus outbreak.

Read the latest updates in our dedicated coronavirus section.

The week-long ban was implemented to quickly reach as many people as possible to extend mass testing to high-density areas.

“Mass testing is a key pillar of Abu Dhabi’s strategy to contain the spread of COVID-19 through the National Screening Program,” Sheikh Abdulla bin Mohamed al-Hamed, chairman of the Department of Health, said in a statement.

Abu Dhabi police introduced a permit system for those exempt from the ban to be able to travel and move freely.

Al Arabiya English answers your questions about the travel ban in Abu Dhabi here:

Who must comply with the ban?

Abu Dhabi’s Department of Health said the ban includes all residents, including UAE nationals.

Is anyone exempt from the ban?

Yes. Employees in vital sectors such as healthcare, as well as chronic disease patients who must visit hospitals for treatment, and “the transportation of necessary goods,” are all exempt.

If I am exempt, do I need a permit?

Yes. Abu Dhabi Police has issued a movement permit system to allow those who are exempt from the travel ban to move between the capital’s cities and out of Abu Dhabi during the week-long period.

Am I allowed to leave my home during the week?

Yes. Residents are allowed to move freely within their city but must comply with precautionary measures such as social distancing and wearing a face mask while in public.

What about the National Sterilization program and nationwide curfew?

The nationwide curfew from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. remains in effect, along with the travel ban. People are allowed to move freely within their residential region only outside of the curfew hours.

Will supermarkets and pharmacies remain open?

Yes. Supermarkets, food outlets and pharmacies will remain open 24 hours a day as previously announced

Am I still allowed to go to the mall, restaurants and hotel beaches?

Yes. Residents are still allowed to go to entertainment destinations such as malls, restaurants and beaches but only within their region. All individuals must wear a face mask and maintain social distancing. Business are required to implement precautionary measures as well.

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The Department of Health began targeting high-density areas for mass testing and sanitation in which residents are tested and the area is sanitized. During testing times, commercial activities may continue as usual. However, entry and exit will be restricted, according to the health department.

Authorities assured those with expired visas that no legal action will be taken against them.

“Protecting the community’s safety and curbing the spread of coronavirus is the top priority,” the Department of Health said in statement.

The UAE has been easing restrictions over the past several weeks, including reopening entertainment destinations as well as beaches and malls, and allowing businesses to resume activity with the requirement of implementing preventative measures.

The country has so far confirmed 35,192 cases and 266 fatalities. However, 18,338 people in the UAE have recovered from the virus so far.