Covid-19 in UAE: I have move permit but got flashed by radar

Dubai - Can you walk alone, or drive to and from work before 8pm? Here are the answers.

Several readers wrote to Khaleej Times, seeking clarity on the UAE attorney-general's resolution about fines and penalties against violators of the Covid-19 coronavirus measures. We posed some of these questions to Emirati lawyer Abdul Moneim Bin Suwaidan of Bin Suwaidan Firm for Advocates and Legal Counsels.

Q. I have a move permit and got flashed by radars while driving. What do I do?
The radar flashes on any car. But the fines are later cancelled for move permit holders.

Q. If I don't work in an essential sector, will I be fined for driving to and from work before 8pm?
People stepping out for work purposes are not fined. They need to present a proof, a document of that.

Q. Do I have to get a movement permit to go to the supermarket in the day time?
Movement permits are required during the sterilisation process timings.

Q. If I get fined for a violation, should I pay it immediately to the police?
There is a special prosecution handling such cases. One is summoned there and he can also object (to the fine).

Q. Is jogging or walking alone allowed as long as you are maintaining a one-metre distance?
The resolution clearly says that leaving home should be for work purposes, necessities or urgent matters or to buy essential needs.

Q. A lot of people are still going out for runs and walking their dogs in the morning. Is that allowed?
The movement of people has been restricted. Going out should only be for work, essential trips only and for buying basic needs (medications or grocery).

Q. Can I go to a friend or colleague's house to borrow something I need during the day time before 8pm?
If the outing is for something important, it is possible.

Q. Can I visit my family living in another emirate?
The authorities have urged people to limit their outings for their own safety and that of their loved ones.

Q. Can I travel in my car with my wife and two kids?
A maximum number of three persons is allowed inside cars.

Q. Can I take my kids out at all? Is it safe for children to be out?
In the current situation, I advise all parents to keep their children indoors. Children and elderly people are vulnerable.

Q. Can I take my pet to the veterinary clinic if there is an emergency?
Yes, if it is a medical emergency.

Q. Is it mandatory to wear masks in public places such as supermarkets and pharmacies?
Individuals with respiratory problems or with coughing and sneezing symptoms should wear masks in closed places.

Q. Do I need to register as a volunteer to assist some of the elderly people in my locality?
There are authorities that coordinate the volunteering process (need for nurses and doctors).

Q. Can I report people who are not respecting the safe-distance rule to authorities?
One can surely complain against any person intentionally spreading the virus by coughing on surfaces or vegetables, fruits and other produce, or by mixing with others while he is a suspected Covid-19 patient.

Q. Will companies be fined for violating the 30 per cent per office rule?
Not sticking to the rule of the 30 per cent capacity of employees at office invites fines.