While curfew restrictions across the UAE have been lifted, businesses are opening up and borders are set to reopen for tourists, all citizens and residents need to be mindful there are still other restrictions in place which must be adhered to.

In a press conference which was held over the weekend, Salem Al Zaabi, Acting Director of the Federal Emergency, Crisis and Disasters Prosecution, issued a warning about the fines in place for those who disobey the COVID-19 rules.

In a statement issued by Al Zaabi, he reminded all citizens and residents that social distancing measures were still in place; masks must be worn; and that all public and private gatherings are still very much banned.

“Since the completion of the National Disinfection Programme, the relevant authorities have observed a significant increase in the number violations of the preventative measures,” he said in a statement.

“Such reckless behaviour will work against the preventative measures, which have been so important in helping to control the spread of the virus.”

“Gatherings in public and in private places are prohibited,” he continued, outlining that only family visits that can be made to first-degree relatives and social distancing must be implemented at all times.

COVID-19 fines in the UAE

  • Fines of Dhs20,000 will be implemented for not placing thermal cameras where they are required.
  • Individuals who have or have had COVID-19 and refuse to download the ALHOSN UAE app face fines of Dhs10,000. If they are caught tampering with the app the fine is Dhs20,000.
  • Hosting a party or gathering will result in fines of Dhs10,000 for the host and Dhs5,000 for every attendee.
  • If employees working from offices are not wearing masks they will be fined Dhs500 and Dhs5,000 for the company.
  • Fines of Dhs5,000 for those who refuse to undergo a COVID-19 test.
  • If you do not maintain social distancing in shops and restaurants individuals will be fined Dhs3,000 and businesses will be fined Dhs5,000.
  • If you refuse to wear a mask in public places it’s a fine of Dhs3,000.
  • Cars with more than three people travelling in the vehicle at a time face fines of Dhs3,000.
  • Refusal to redo a COVID-19 test after two weeks will result in a Dhs1,000 fine.

If perpetrators continue to break the rules in place, heavier fines will be given, with third-time offenders being subject to legal action.

“The fine will be doubled for those found to be repeating the violation,” Al Zaabi warned.  “Third-time offenders will be subject to legal action and could face imprisonment for up to six months and an increased fine of Dhs100,000.”

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