Following the restrictions issued on 4 April 2020 relating to disinfection in Dubai, the Dubai Government requested the public to stay home 24/7.

People are allowed to step out only to get essential services such as food, medical emergencies and testing for COVID-19. They may step out only between 8am and 2 pm that too after applying for a movement permit. People stepping out must wear gloves and a mask and maintain physical distance. For inquiries and help, call the hotline 800737648.

Employees of the following sectors are exempt from restricted movement 24/7 and are not required to register for a permit provided they are going to perform their duties. However, they must carry their Emirates ID, labour card and a letter from their employer stating that the employee needs to report to work. This letter may be presented to authorities if asked and can also be used to waive violations registered through the radars. Exempted sectors are:

• Food supply outlets (Union Cooperative outlets, supermarkets, groceries)
• Delivery services (food and medicine)
• Restaurants (operations limited to home deliveries only)
• Manufacturers of medicines and providers of healthcare and medical supplies
• Industrial sector (only vital industries)
• Industrial supply chain for services and basic commodities
• Water and electricity sector, petrol and gas stations and district cooling services
• Telecommunications sector
• Media sector
• Airports, airlines, ports, shipping
• Customs duty and border crossings
• Public and private security services
• Municipality services and public and private service providers involved in garbage collection, sewage management and general cleaning and sanitation
• Private and government sector organisations involved in combating the coronavirus (COVID-19)
• Public transport (buses and taxis only; metro and tram services will be suspended)
• Construction sector, subject to obtaining a permit from Dubai Municipality and the Permanent Committee for Labour Affairs
• Support sectors – (Employees working in these sectors are permitted to commute to work between 8.00 am and 2.00 pm)
• Banking and financial services (banks and exchange centres)
• Social welfare services
• Laundry services (for permitted outlets)
• Maintenance services.

Find FAQs about Dubai Movement permit.