COVID-19: Abu Dhabi calls for a safer Eid al-Fitr

Abu Dhabi authorities have adopted preventive measures and warned against gatherings to celebrate this year's Eid al-Fitr in a bid to contain the spread of COVID-19.

The National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority (NCEMA), in collaboration with the Department of Health and the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre, have advised all residents above the age of 60, children under the age of 12 and people with chronic illness to refrain from going to mosques for Eid prayers, reported state news agency WAM.

The committee also urged Muslims to give out Zakat-ul-Fitr through smart applications and websites of official charities accredited in the UAE. Zakat-ul-Fitr is a mandatory act of charity for the poor given out by financially abled a few days before the end of the month of Ramadan. Those who opt to pray out at mosques are to take ablution at home, bring a special prayer mat, wear masks and maintain social distancing at all times.

All social gatherings in the emirate will be fined Dh 10,000 for hosts and Dh 5,000 for each guest, the Abu Dhabi Police cautioned and called on the public to report any sort of violations. Meanwhile, the Dubai Police also announced penalties for violations against gatherings of more than five people in the emirate, with Dh 50,000 and Dh 15,000 charged for a host and each attendee, respectively.

The official spokesperson of NCEMA Dr. Saif Al Dhaheri urged people to limit Eid greetings virtually and to avoid exchanging gifts or food, to not get exposed to the virus.

Meanwhile, the UAE has lighted up all its emirates to celebrate Eid with fervour. On Wednesday, the country reported 1,508 cases, 1477 new recoveries and 2 covid-deaths, with 11,366,954 vaccine doses administered so far.