Reopening responsibly: Dubai intensifies sterilisation of mosques

Authorities have not yet announced any date for the reopening of mosques.

Authorities in Dubai have intensified the sterilisation of all mosques in the emirate. Videos going viral on social media show workers dressed in full Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) gear sanitising areas at mosques including parking lots and outdoor areas, entrances, main prayer halls and ablution areas. 
It must be noted that authorities have not yet announced any date for the reopening of mosques.
Screengrabs from videos going viral on social media.
Nevertheless, videos and images are now being shared on social media, showing yellow stickers being placed in prayer halls of the mosques to ensure social distancing between worshippers. 

Last week, some mosques in Dubai displayed copies of notices of detailed guidelines that worshippers must adhere to once the authorities announce the opening up of mosques. The guidelines issued by the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department specified measures like wearing a mask and gloves while praying; worshippers having to bring their own prayer mats; and maintaining a 1.5m distance between individuals.

According to the guidelines, women's prayer halls will remain closed while people above 60 and children below 12 years will not be allowed in for their safety.

• Dubai