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Dubai imams, muezzins requested to undergo precautionary Covid-19 tests

Dubai - The authorities have not yet announced a date for the reopening of mosques.

Imams and muezzins of mosques in Dubai have been asked to undergo tests for Covid-19 coronavirus, Khaleej Times can confirm.

"We received a call from the authorities saying we had to undergo the test on Wednesday, which, of course, is a precautionary measure to ensure that all the employees of the mosques are fit and free from the virus," one of the imams confirmed.  

The authorities have not yet announced a date for the reopening of mosques.

As Khaleej Times reported earlier today, mosques are undergoing an intensified sterilisation process.

"We are fully prepared to reopen the mosque as soon as we get the go-ahead. We have placed multilingual signboards spelling out the guidelines that must be followed at all times by the worshippers. Although all worshippers must get their own prayer mats when they come to pray, we have made arrangements to offer disposable prayer mats for those who forget to bring it," the Imam said.  

Bright floor markers for physical distancing have been placed to indicate the distance that needs to be maintained between the worshippers, he added.

According to fresh instructions received by Imams, the first row will be reserved for the Imam. Worshippers will offer prayers in alternate rows after that, with physical distancing floor stickers guiding them to remain at least 1.5 metres apart.

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.

saman@khaleejtimes.com