The Safety Guidelines For the Use of Protective Face Masks in Dubai Have Changed

As COVID-19 restrictions continue to ease in Dubai, government officials have announced a new set of guidelines regarding the mandatory wearing of protective face masks.

According to the official guidelines issued by the Supreme Committee of Crisis and Disaster Management in Dubai, children under the age of six are now exempt from wearing face masks. As are people of determination with cognitive, intellectual, sensory disorders or impairments that hinder their ability to breathe or communicate. Individuals who require breathing assistance and those with severe respiratory conditions are also exempt from wearing face masks.

The guidelines, issued earlier today, Sunday, May 31, also detail when the temporary removal of protective face masks is permitted.

Instances, where Dubai residents and locals can temporarily remove their face masks, include when driving alone in a car or when driving in the presence of members of the same household. When eating or drinking at a restaurant (both indoors and outdoors), when performing strenuous exercise, and when seated at an office alone. Those undergoing medical treatment such as dental and ocular surgery are also temporarily exempt from wearing face masks.

The Committee revealed that the new guidelines are based on recommendations of the COVID-19 Command and Control Centre as well as a comprehensive review of global best practices.

Within the guidelines, the Committee stressed the importance and the needs for parents and guardians of the exempted groups to ensure that a strict social distance of two meters is maintained. It also emphasized that face masks could only be removed under the conditions specified in the guidelines.

For more Dubai COVID-19 updates and news, please click here.