Abu Dhabi to increase capacity at vaccinated-only venues as part of August 20 rules

Abu Dhabi will limit entry to many public places to only those who are fully vaccinated from Friday

Employees at Yas Mall in Abu Dhabi. Victor Besa / The National

Cleaners disinfect rubbish bins and handrails at Yas Mall. Victor Besa / The National

Signs reminding visitors to keep a distance from others are displayed at the vast mall

Capacity limits are to be lifted at shopping centres in the UAE

The step comes amid a steady decline in Covid-19 cases in recent weeks

Authorities will continue to monitor infection rates as they gradually ease restrictions

A cleaner at Yas Mall in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi is increasing capacity levels at public places to which only fully vaccinated people will be allowed to enter.

From Friday, those who remain unvaccinated will be unable to access a number of venues, including restaurants, cafes, malls and shops.

The list also includes gyms, sports centres, health clubs, resorts, museums, galleries and theme parks, as well as universities, colleges, nurseries and schools.

Vaccinated people are admitted through having green status on Al Hosn, the UAE's vaccination app.

Green status is displayed on the app after a negative PCR test result. It remains valid for 30 days for fully vaccinated people who received their second dose at least 28 days prior.

Capacity increased to 80 per cent

The Abu Dhabi Emergency, Crisis and Disasters Committee on Saturday approved increasing capacity in public places which are only for those who are vaccinated.

The capacity for shopping malls, entertainment centres, cultural centres, museums and movie theatres is increased to 80 per cent – provided that all precautionary measures are followed.

Capacity in restaurants and cafes is increased to 80 per cent, allowing up to 10 people to sit at one table – provided that face masks are worn when not dining.

The committee has maintained the operating capacity of 50 per cent for health clubs, sports academies, gyms and spas, stressing that residents and guests must adhere to wearing face masks and observe physical distancing.

Sports events, concerts and weddings

“To ensure a safe experience at all events, the committee has approved increasing capacity to 60 per cent for community and sport events, corporate events such as exhibitions and conferences, and entertainment events including theatre plays and concerts,” read a statement from the committee carried by Abu Dhabi Media Office.

It has also approved increasing capacity at wedding halls to 60 per cent, with a maximum of 100 people in the hall.

Entry to public places hosting these events will use the green pass system and all attendees must show a negative PCR test result received within 48 hours of the event starting to be allowed to enter.

“The committee encourages all community members to implement the green pass system at private events and family gatherings to preserve public health and curb the spread of the virus,” the authority stated.

Public transport boost

Officials authorised increasing the operating capacity of public transportation to 75 per cent, as well as taxi capacity, so that a taxi driver can travel with up to three passengers in a five-person taxi and four passengers in a seven-person taxi.