The United Arab Emirates is tightening covid regulations, including stricter enforcement of an indoor mask mandate, amid an increase in Covid-19 cases and hospitalizations.
Infections in the UAE have more than doubled in a week, and the country reported 1,319 infections on Monday. Hospital admissions have increased. Still, the number of fatalities has stayed low, and the government hasn’t reported any deaths in at least a week.
Under the new rules, a “green pass” system on the government’s health app will be valid for 14 days, starting Wednesday. The app, which uses a colour-coded system to indicate vaccination and PCR test status, is currently valid for 30 days. A green pass is needed to access government buildings across the country and indoor spaces in the capital, Abu Dhabi.
The government also urged residents to follow an indoor mask mandate. The rule will be more strictly enforced, authorities said, and any breaches will carry a fine of up to 3,000 dirhams ($816.77).
