19 Mar 2020; MEMO: On Wednesday the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Foreign Ministry announced a ban on citizens from travelling abroad until further notice, as a precautionary measure to curb the spread of the coronavirus.
According to the Emirates News Agency, the ministry indicated that: “The decision stems from the eagerness to ensure the citizens’ safety and wellbeing in light of the rapid spread of the virus around the world, restrictions imposed on travel by countries, and the gradual suspension of flights.”
The ministry pledged to inform the public of all developments on the issue, noting that: “The precautionary measures taken at the national level are aimed at limiting the spread of the virus and ensuring safety for all.”
The number of confirmed cases of the coronavirus in the UAE has reached 113, according to the latest official figures.
The Emirates News Agency quoted the UAE Attorney General Hamad Al-Shamsi, confirming that: “Violating the instructions and procedures to limit the spread of Covid-19… is a crime punishable by the laws of the state.”
Al-Shamsi added: “Every person entering into the UAE must adhere to the quarantine at their place of residence for 14 days, and implement the instructions issued later by the competent authorities.”
He continued: “The Public Prosecution will strictly apply the law against any person who violates the procedures of home quarantine by leaving their place of residence and contacting other people, which is considered as a violation of the provisions of the law and public order, and an attempt to jeopardise public health and safety.”
On Wednesday, the UAE authorities announced the temporary suspension of procedures for obtaining entry visas upon the arrival of holders of passports of exempted countries, in response to the World Health Organisation categorisation of the coronavirus epidemic.
