Dubai authorities have clarified that only children who are vaccinated against Covid-19 would be allowed to attend any social gatherings, exhibitions and events, such as weddings at hotels in Dubai. Last month, Dubai authorities had announced revised precautionary measures for weddings and social gatherings, that included all attendees to be vaccinated against Covid-19. But many residents were unsure if their unvaccinated children could attend such events, since many were too young to receive the vaccine.

The authority clarified, “According to the latest announcement by the Dubai Supreme Committee of Crisis and Disaster Management in May, individuals can attend social gatherings only if they have been fully vaccinated and have completed two weeks after the second dose. This includes children.” The statement clarifies that children below 12 years are not allowed to attend social gatherings like wedding parties, birthdays, and sports events. It also says that children above 12 must be vaccinated to attend such events. 

The DMO (Dubai Media Office) further reiterated that unvaccinated people are “not allowed to take part in community events for their safety as well as that of others”.

“It is important to note that these measures have been announced based on the general situation and are being assessed until later this month. The safety of each individual in the community is our highest priority,” it said. 

The hotel’s management has sent emails to the wedding hosting parties, stating, “There is a requirement for all guests/ attendees for all social gatherings and parties to see to it that children above 12, who attend the gatherings at the hotel, are vaccinated — and kids below 12 are not allowed to attend such events.” 

The Ministry of Health and Prevention (Mohap) in May had approved the emergency use of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine for children in the 12 to 15 age group in the UAE.

To gain entry at events, DMO had said, “Attendees must present their vaccination certificates or show their vaccination status through Al Hosn mobile application or through DHA (Dubai Health Authority) app or download the certificate directly from the DHA link (services.dha.gov.ae).” 

Dubai's Supreme Committee of Crisis and Disaster Management has stressed the importance of adhering to updated precautionary protocols for Covid-19.

Authorities will carry out inspections to ensure compliance with the measures, and violators will face strict penalties.