More than 700 Dubai beachgoers fined for flouting Covid-19 safety rules

The fines were issued since beaches reopened on May 29

Dubai Police said 721 people were caught breaching safety guidelines between May 29 and September 20.  Antonie Robertson / The National

More than 700 beachgoers in Dubai have been fined for flouting Covid-19 safety rules since beaches reopened at the end of May.

Police officials said 721 people were caught breaching safety guidelines between May 29 and September 20.

The UAE attorney general first started issuing penalties for flouting Covid-19 guidelines on March 27.

“Dubai Police will not tolerate any violation of rules that were laid down to protect people from this virus,” said Col Saeed Al Madhani, director of Ports Police Station in Dubai.

Those who do not wear a face mask or fail to follow social distancing rules are fined up to Dh3,000.

Security teams on cycles, boats, motorcycles and cars, beach patrols and drones are used to ensure people abide by the rules in the emirate.

“Drones are equipped with hi-tech cameras that can zone in on wide areas during day or night,” Col Al Madhani said.

“They also have loudspeakers to broadcast any messages Dubai Police wishes to convey to the public, especially in coastal areas.”

Col Al Madhani urged beachgoers to avoid gatherings and wear face masks.

“Non-compliance with public safety measures will be dealt with according to law,” he said.