UAE combats coronavirus: National Sterilisation Programme timings revised to 10pm-6am

Abu Dhabi - The new timings will facilitate people and businesses as emirates gradually reopen.

Authorities in the UAE have announced revised timings for the National Sterilisation Programme from Saturday, May 30, in their fight against Covid-19.
The Ministry of Health, Ministry of Interior and the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) have revised the sterilisation programme timings to 10pm to 6am, Wam reported on Friday.
The previous timings were 8pm to 6am.
The new timings come into effect from Saturday (May 30).
The decision exempts camel racing tracks, whose timings will be from 10pm to 5am.
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council, had earlier announced 11pm-6am as the revised timings for the sterilisation drive in Dubai.
This decision to revise the timings in other emirates comes within the framework of facilitating citizens and residents by giving them a greater opportunity to attend to necessary/essential activities.
The timings were also changed to assist economic activity in the gradual recovery and revitalisation of the commercial movement and not disrupting the important sectors of UAE.
Supermarkets, pharmacies to operate 24 hours a day
Foodstuff outlets, cooperative societies, grocery stores, supermarkets and pharmacies will continue to operate for 24 hours a day.
The Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Interior and NCEMA reiterated that businesses need to continue to adhere to Covid-19 safety procedures and precautionary guidelines, including allowing only 30 per cent of the total capacity of customers while maintaining social distancing.
The principle of social distancing aims to reduce crowding in public places that is in compliance with global health guidelines, in turn stopping the spread of coronavirus.
Public urged to adhere to safety guidelines
Authorities have called upon all members of society to fully comply with this decision - within the specified time period - which is in the interest of the nation, citizens and residents.
Public is urged to not step out of their home unless for essential work, such as buying grocery and medicines or go for a health check-up. Workers in vital sectors are exempted from movement restrictions. However, they need to carry relevant documents proving that they are commuting for work.
People are strongly advised to avoid public gatherings, including family gatherings, to ensure the health and safety of all. Residents must wear a mask and gloves when leaving the house while complying with other preventive measures.

• Abu Dhabi