Authorities in the UAE are urging the public to adhere to COVID-19 safety guidelines throughout the Holy Month of Ramadan.
This comes after Abu Dhabi’s Emergency, Crisis and Disasters Committee approved a list of preventative measures in collaboration with the capital’s Department of Health.
Apart from wearing facemasks and maintaining physical distancing of at least two metres in public, people are reminded that Iftar and Suhoor gatherings must be limited to family members within the same household.
Meanwhile, COVID-19 patients have been advised to consult a doctor before fasting.
Iftar meal donations will be allowed through online distribution platforms, with Zakat and alms donations also channeled through websites of various charities. In addition, religious studies lectures and Holy Quran recital sessions will also be offered online.
The measures also include allowing congregational prayers in mosques, with the duration of Isha and Tarawih prayers not exceeding 30 minutes.
The authority added that inspections will be intensified to ensure compliance with precautionary measures, with violators reported to the Attorney-General.
A cabinet meeting, chaired by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, on Sunday approved a series of national strategies and international agreements, to strengthen the country's resilience and global position.
UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan held a virtual meeting with US Senator Joni Ernst to discuss UAE–US strategic cooperation and their shared commitment to strengthening ties.
Higher education institutions in the UAE will begin a phased return to on-campus learning from Monday, under issued guidance, with the authority offering the option while keeping the safety of the students, faculty, and staff as its top priority.
Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, has strongly condemned attacks on civilian infrastructure in the region.
The UAE announced it is continuing to respond to incoming missile and drone threats from Iran, with a further alert issued by the National Emergency and Crisis Management Authority (NCEMA) on its official channel on Sunday at 3:23 p.m.