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The first phase of this allowance will include shopping centers, restaurants, cafes, and all retail outlets, but not supermarkets and pharmacies
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The decision does not apply to unvaccinated individuals with vaccination exemption, nor to children under the age of 15.
The Abu Dhabi Emergency, Crisis and Disasters Committee has approveda plan to allow vaccinated people to enter a number of public places from August 20, said local reports on Tuesday, June 29.
The committee reportedly approved the first phase of this allowance to include shopping centers, restaurants, cafes, and all retail outlets, including those not within a shopping center. However, supermarkets and pharmacies would still be off limits.
The first phase of the decision also includes gyms, recreational and sporting activities, health clubs, resorts, museums, cultural centers, and theme parks, as well as universities, institutes, public and private schools, and children’s nurseries.
The committee stated that the decision does not apply to unvaccinated individuals with vaccination exemption, nor to children under the age of 15.
The emirate has already vaccinated more than 93% of target groups,said the reports, adding that it has also put in place several precautionary measures against the spread of Covid-19.
The United Arab Emirates’ GDP plunged from around $421 billion in 2019 to the vicinity of $350 billion on 2020 — a decline of 16% — and is not expected to go back to the pre-pandemic stage even when 2021 ends.
However, Dubai’s move may at least ensure that there is some recovery of the economy as people venture out and support local businesses.