No temperature checks at Dubai gyms, sports venues from Jan 1

Fitness centres and sports venues will no longer be required to use thermal scanners or conduct temperature checks starting tomorrow, January 1, 2021, authorities have announced.

The Dubai Sports Council (DSC) said the Covid safety measure update covers sports events, all sports clubs, academies, training and fitness centres, and other such facilities in the emirate.

This decision, DSC said, follows the directives issued by government authorities to abolish temperature checks at all business establishments in Dubai. On Wednesday, the Dubai Economy announced that this applies to all stores and outlets.

The authorities have also updated the valet parking protocols in Dubai, cancelling the requirement for valets to cover the driver’s seats and steering wheel with plastic, which was being done to prevent the spread of Covid-19.

However, all other precautionary measures — like wearing face masks — still stand, and the DSC has urged all sports and fitness establishments and event organisers to comply with the safety rules.

The sports establishments and event organisers, among others, have been instructed to make sure they continue to maintain the hygiene and sanitisation requirements as mandated by authorities. These include maintaining a regular cleaning regime, and ensuring that the safe distancing rule is respected at all times.

Regulations also require facilities to display public announcements and awareness signage in highly visible areas. They must also maintain adequate records of their members, including names, telephone numbers and visit dates, to assist if contact tracing becomes necessary.