UAE eases mask rules in some public places

Masks no longer need to be worn while exercising outside, by the beach or by the pool

Cloth reusable facemasks are more environmentally sound than disposable ones, but must be washed every 24 hours to remain effective. All photos by Reem Mohammed / The National

Surgical masks are cheap and effective if worn correctly but create mountains of waste once they are disposed of after each use.

Fineguard manufactures face coverings in the UAE using Livinguard materials that repel viruses. A range of lightweight masks are designed for exercise.

The ViroMasks viroblock mask has a double filter to ease breathing and block 95 per cent of viruses.

At Dh699, the LG Puricare wearable air purifier mask is the most expensive in the UAE.

LG’s Puricare wearable air purifier mask is rechargeable and has two filters and three settings to respond to respiration rates.

Coronavirus latest: UAE making 'rapid recovery' due to vaccine and testing rate

The UAE government has eased rules on wearing masks in some public places.

The decision will be most significant in Abu Dhabi, where previously Covid-19 regulations required people to wear a mask in almost all public places – including while exercising.

The Ministry of Health and Prevention has now said masks are no longer needed in the following situations:

- while exercising outside, at the beach or by the pool

- while in a car with people from the same household

- while alone in an indoor place

- while in a barber shop or salon

Social distancing of two metres remains in place, and businesses have to put up signs explaining where masks are mandatory.

Each of the emirates has separate crisis authorities, and rules have diverged in recent months. Dubai's government eased rules on wearing masks while exercising in summer 2020.

The latest decision follows a significant fall in recent Covid-19 cases and reaching the stage where more than 80 per cent of the UAE population have had two vaccines.