Clarion India

DUBAI — In the wake of coronavirus scare the UAE government has urged residents to stay at home except for emergencies. They should step out only to buy groceries or medicines, authorities advised.

Residents have been told not to have more than three individuals in their cars, reports Emirates news agency Wam.

The authorities also urged everyone not to visit hospitals except for critical or emergency cases and to use face masks.

The UAE law on communicable diseases, which includes fines and jail terms, will be enforced against all violators, according to a statement issued by the authorities.

The authorities urged UAE citizens, residents, visitors and all those living in the nation, to comply with the instructions and guidelines issued by competent health and security authorities, primarily limiting social contacts and avoiding crowded places to ensure their safety and wellbeing.

Suspends all passenger and transit flights

Meanwhile, the National Emergency and Crisis and Disasters Management and the Civil Aviation Authority have decided to suspend all inbound and outbound passenger flights and the transit of airline passengers in the UAE for two weeks as part of the precautionary measures taken to curb the spread of the Covid-19.

The decision, which is subject to re-assessment, will take effect in 48 hours.

In a statement today, the CAA said cargo and emergency evacuation flights would be exempt, taking into consideration all the precautionary measures adopted as per the recommendations of the Ministry of Health and Prevention, reports Wam.

“Additional examination and isolation arrangements will be taken later should flights resume in order to ensure the safety of passengers, air crews, and airport personnel and their protection from infection risks,” said the statement.

Closes malls, fresh food markets for 2 weeks