Abu Dhabi Emergency, Crisis and Disasters Committee has approved the entry of only vaccinated individuals at specific public places with effect from August 20, 2021, Friday. The decision has come in line with Abu Dhabi authorities' successful efforts in vaccinating more than 93% of target groups in the emirate. At the same time, the committee has strengthened precautionary measures across the emirate to protect public health and safety against the pandemic.

The move reflects the emirate’s ongoing strategy to curb the spread of the COVID-19 virus as well as complements the preventive and precautionary measures implemented by the authorities to safeguard the health and safety of all community members. The committee has highlighted that the move would enhance safety in public areas subjected to additional precautionary measures. It would also add to the protection of all members of the community.

In the first phase, the committee has approved the entry of vaccinated individuals at shopping centres, restaurants, cafes, and all other retail outlets, including those not within a shopping centre. Unvaccinated people have been restricted from entering any businesses in the emirate, except supermarkets and pharmacies for essential commodities.

The first phase will also include recreational facilities and sporting activities such as gyms, health clubs, museum, cultural centres, theme parks, and resorts along with universities, educational institutes, public and private schools, and children nurseries across Abu Dhabi.

The committee has also pointed out that the decision to allow vaccinated individuals to public places does not apply to unvaccinated individuals with vaccination exemption received through the approved procedure and registration on the Al Hosn app also not for children aged 15 and under.

In addition, the committee has stated that the decision has been taken as part of the proactive measures taken by the emirate. These measures include pre-emptive testing campaigns in populated and industrial areas, use of modern and innovative technologies to detect infected cases and ongoing vaccination campaign, including offering a booster vaccine dose to eligible groups.

The committee continues to review the precautionary measures and safety protocols with developments in the COVID-19 pandemic. It has stressed the need for adhering to precautionary measures and getting vaccinated, noting that vaccination is the most effective method to achieve sustainable recovery.

WAM