UAE changes timings of national disinfection drive during Ramadan

The UAE has announced a change in timings of the national disinfection programme during the holy month of Ramadan.

The programme, which began earlier this month to curb the spread of Covid-19 in the country, will now begin at 10pm instead of 8pm, and last until 6am, official news agency WAM reported.

Ramadan begins in the UAE on Friday, April 24.

The change in timing is aimed at “facilitating normal activity for citizens and residents during the holy month”, according to the Ministries of Health and Prevention and Interior and the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority.

Food outlets, co-operative societies, groceries, supermarkets, and pharmacies will continue to be allowed to operate around the clock during Ramadan.

Fish, meat, vegetable and fruit shops, mills, roasteries, slaughterhouses, nuts, pastry, and chocolate shops, as well as tea and coffee shops will be allowed to operate from 6am until 10pm.

Officials stressed that the outlets allowed to operate should adhere to all health and safety guidelines. These include not allowing customers beyond 30 per cent of the total capacity, maintenance of a distance of at least two metres between two customers, and avoiding any type of crowding.

They also called upon the public to comply with all precautionary and preventative measures, such as not leaving the home except to buy food or medicine or to obtain medical care or work in vital sectors previously identified by the relevant authorities.

Authorities also said the public should take into consideration the directives issued by the UAE Fatwa Council, particularly on performing prayers at home and treating health and safety precautions as a national and religious obligation.

Read: Dubai bans gatherings of more than 10 people during Ramadan

Residents have been urged to avoid public gatherings, family visits, and group iftar feasts during Ramadan. Those going outside must practise social distancing, wear face masks and gloves and adhere to all other preventative measures, the report stressed.

Read: UAE reports 518 new Covid-19 cases, four deaths