UAE revises stay-at-home hours for industrial areas

A 12-hour restriction now applies to people living in industrial zones and workers' accommodation

The streets of Mussaffah are sprayed with disinfection during a national campaign to prevent the spread of coronavirus. Victor Besa / The National 

People who live in industrial areas of the country will have to stay indoors from 6pm to 6am with immediate effect and until further notice.

On Wednesday, the Ministry of Interior and Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, said the schedule was adjusted intensify the nightly disinfection drive.

In all other areas of the country, Emiratis and residents have been told to stay home from 8pm and 6am, until further notice.

Throughout Ramadan, the disinfection drive was carried out between 10pm and 6am but, on Monday, authorities said the schedule in place prior to the holy month would be reinstated.

Wednesday's announcement applies specifically to people who live in "industrial zones and workers; accommodation".

The ministries said anyone living in those areas must stay home between 6pm to 6am except in cases of absolute necessity.

Supermarkets, cooperatives and pharmacies are permitted to remain open 24-hours a day.

The decision is part of measures undertaken to prevent the spread of Covid-19.

This week, authorities increased fines against breaking 36 rules that are in place to protect the public.

They include Dh3,000 fines for breaking rules related to face masks, social distancing and stay-home hours.