[ad_1]
Mall operators welcomed the decision and hoped it would restore a sense of normalcy to the public
photos provided
Abu Dhabi is an emirate following some of the strictest Covid-19 precautions and restrictions in the country, and community members are in a good mood.
They can now enter public spaces such as shopping centres, restaurants, entertainment venues and venues without having to show a green pass on their Al Hosn app – a requirement that was implemented as early as June 2021.
Importantly, this means that residents no longer need monthly PCR tests to keep their applications green. Several Covid-19 measures were eased across the country starting at 6 a.m. Monday, November 7, including the need for a green pass and the option to wear masks in all open and closed facilities.
After closing hours on Sunday, most mall operators tore off stickers attached to entrances, informing residents that a “green pass” was a mandatory requirement to enter the facility. A staff member who tore off one of the stickers said it was a “happy moment” as people could now visit the mall with greater peace of mind.
“Sometimes, people don’t know their green card has expired. Some [passes] will be only one day old, and [residents would] We were asked to let them in, but we couldn’t. We don’t have to shut them out now,” he said.
Residents are happy that they no longer need PCR tests to ensure a valid green status; some even see it as an optimistic sign that their lives are finally returning to normal.
Caroline Cheruiyot, a Kenyan expat who has been living in Abu Dhabi for the past 3 years, is actually expecting a relaxation of rules like this, as Covid-19 cases have been falling.
“I have been anticipating this news for days. Recently, EDE scanners (to detect positive cases of Covid-19) were stopped. Now we don’t need a green pass, which means people [don’t need] PCR tests were performed every 30 days.
I’m excited and looking forward to visiting the mall with my friends soon instead of seeing the green pass poster at the entrance. “
Moroccan expat Soukaina Aouane, who has lived in the capital for seven years, thanked the government and health authorities for protecting the lives of members of the community.
“The government announced these measures after an exhaustive review of the pandemic situation. We have finally turned a corner on the pandemic, fantastic! Among other things, there is no green pass and masks are optional in places of worship [positive signs]. They give our residents the confidence to get our lives back to normal. “
Pradeep KP, an Indian expat and long-time resident of the country, is delighted to see yet another restriction lifted – slowly, but surely, life will return to the glory days of 2019.
“I feel [elated] After seeing the breaking news that all restrictions have been lifted. This is the best news ever.But I’ll still be careful in crowded places; we’re still [have] More than 200 positive cases of Covid-19, so the virus is still there.
But for now, I’ll be glad [this] normal. I’m going to the mall soon and don’t need to show my green card status. I will enjoy the moment: it will take a while to come. “
“A welcome move”
The mall operator welcomed the decision, which will restore a sense of normalcy to the public and the market.
“This is a big step for government policymakers. Thanks to all the moves by the authorities, the coronavirus is under control and that’s why the restrictions are lifted.
“Sometimes, people cannot enter malls without green passes. But now, the absence of entry restrictions will bring more customers back to malls. These positive sentiments are good for all industries, including shopping malls and tourism,” Al Khoury said.
Mayank M. Pal, general manager of Khalidiyah Mall and Al Raha Mall in Abu Dhabi, said green pass stickers have been removed from all entrances to the malls.
He said: “This is indeed a very welcome step. We welcome our customers back as we did in the days before the pandemic. We thank the UAE government for all the measures it has taken to ensure public safety.”
“Wear a mask in crowded places”
Dr. VR Anil Kumar, Medical Director of Phoenix Hospital in Mohamed bin Zayed City, noted that the easing of restrictions will have a positive impact on the mental health of the emirate’s residents.
“These restrictions were imposed for a reason, and now we are in the recovery phase of the pandemic. Entry requirements without a green pass and further relaxation of face masks will have a positive impact on people’s minds.
I still recommend people, especially those who are more vulnerable, wear masks in crowded places. Also, with the height of flu season, I’m asking people to get vaccinated, which is available for free. “
Also read:
[ad_2]
Source link
