Abu Dhabi resumes sports training for children

Ban lifted after months of no sports academies for teenagers

A boy wearing a face mask takes his dogs on a stroll on the Corniche in Abu Dhabi. Victor Besa / The National

A Covid-19 safety sign on Al Qahirah street in Abu Dhabi. Victor Besa / The National

Checkers line up at the entrance of Global Village with masks and face shields. Reem Mohammed / The National

Abu Dhabi residents on their Friday morning fitness ritual. Victor Besa / The National

Bridal facemask at Contessa Bridal Dubai in City Walk in Dubai. Reem Mohammed / The National

An employee at The Meydan Hotel in Dubai sanitises the reception area to prevent the spread of Covid-19. Chris Whiteoak / The National

A lifeguard at The Meydan Hotel with a mask on to prevent the spread of Covid-19. Chris Whiteoak / The National

Hygiene and Covid-19 safety measures take place at a fitness class at Bare. Chris Whiteoak / The National

A lady works on her laptop while wearing a mask at Times Square in Dubai. Chris Whiteoak / The National

People wear masks to curb the spread of the coronavirus in Satwa, Dubai. Chris Whiteoak / The National

Coronavirus safety measures are taken at 815 Dance & Performing Arts Training Centre in Silicone Oasis in Dubai. Chris Whiteoak / The National

A lady takes part in an art installation which comes to life via augmented reality with a mask on to prevent the spread of Covid-19 in Dubai. Chris Whiteoak / The National

Training sessions at sports academies for children aged between 12 and up will resume across the capital.

On Sunday, Abu Dhabi Sports Council said individual and group training sessions could be held again, after months of suspension due to Covid-19.

Group training sessions will be limited to a maximum of two groups of five for team sports.

Precautionary measures remain in place, including regular coronavirus screening for staff and sterilisation of equipment before use.

Participants must also register for training sessions in advance, to avoid crowding.

Prior to beginning training, everyone must have their temperature checked and face masks will be mandatory at all times except during sporting activities.

Daily logs of player data including contact details and temperature readings must be kept.

Everyone must bring their own personal kit and not share with others. And a distance of two metres must be maintained with stickers placed on the floor to prompt people.

Festivals of any kind and competitions remain prohibited.

Last month, the council lifted a ban on community sport events in the capital but said safety regulations must in place.

These included banning spectators from watching events as well as forbidding under-12s, adults over 60 and people with some chronic diseases from taking part.

All participants must first undergo a test to prove they are virus-free before taking part in events such as running, cycling, triathlons, and open-water swimming and other marine activities.