Abu Dhabi authorities have updated COVID-19 safety measures for people willing to attend public events and exhibitions in the emirate. According to a circular issued by the Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT) - Abu Dhabi, the new safety protocols are effective from October 13. The new circular has already been sent to the managers of hotels, museums, cultural and entertainment venues along with event organisers.

As per the circular, the new measures include mandatory negative COVID-19 PCR test result taken no more than 48 hours prior. Furthermore, hotels and event organisers must use the Green Pass protocol. It ensures the entry of only fully-vaccinated residents and tourists against COVID-19 to most public places in Abu Dhabi. It includes a green status on the Al Hosn which remains activated for 30 days for vaccinated people after they receive a negative PCR test. People who are not eligible to take the COVID-19 vaccine get a seven-day Green Pass after a negative PCR test.

Furthermore, face masks are mandatory at all times at the events and exhibition.

The authorities have also placed EDE scanners at all entrances of public places. The technology helps in detecting possible COVID-19 infections by using electromagnetic waves which alerts when RNA particles of the virus are present in an individual's body. The protocols is applicable with immediate effect at those facilities where the technology is already installed. Other facilities are asked to adopt the safety measures as soon as the devices are installed.

Taking to Twitter, the authority stated that the guidelines have been updated with the aim of ensuring the safety and wellbeing of the community. The DCT has also affirmed that the Department's inspectors will ensure regular checks across the establishments to verify compliance with safety measures.

“We hope that you will abide by what we have mentioned to avoid the legal measures that will be taken against offenders according to the legislation in force,” the authority said in the circular.