Eid Al Fitr in Abu Dhabi: Dh10,000 fine for hosting house gatherings with more than 10 people

Abu Dhabi officials remind the public that attending crowded gatherings will result in Dh5,000 fine

Retailers are expecting a busy Eid Al Fitr, as shoppers make the most of the holiday. All photos by Antonie Robertson / The National

A shop worker puts up an Eid Mubarak message on a shop window in Festival City Mall in Dubai.

Retailers were leaving nothing to chance when it came to attracting Eid shoppers at Mall of the Emirates in Dubai.

Retailers in the Mall of the Emirates were offering bargains as Eid approached.

Decorations on display at Festival City Mall ahead of Eid Al Fitr.

Shoppers flock to the Mall of the Emirates ahead of Eid.

Preparations are under way for Eid Al Fitr at Festival City Mall.

Decorations in Festival City Mall as shoppers and retailers prepare for Eid Al Fitr.

Dubai's Festival City Mall was quiet on Monday morning. Retailers are expecting the opposite during Eid Al Fitr.

Abu Dhabi Police have reminded the public to abide by Covid-19 rules on gatherings during the Eid Al Fitr holidays.

According to the latest guidelines issued on February 7, up to 10 family members can attend gatherings and parties at homes in the capital, but they must wear face masks and remain at least two metres apart.

Hosts that break the rules will be fined Dh10,000, while each guest will have to pay Dh5,000, officials said.

Abu Dhabi Police urged people to adhere to social distancing measures, wear facemasks and avoid gatherings in public places, homes or private farms.

Authorities said people should avoid family visits and gatherings during Eid Al Fitr.

Instead, people should embrace virtual Eid celebrations and avoid unnecessary visits to the elderly and those with chronic diseases.

In Dubai, gatherings of more than five people are banned.

Thousands of officers will be on patrol during the long weekend, while hundreds of volunteers will remind the public to take precautionary measures.