Your responsibility is the best Eid gift

dubai — With the global count of Covid-19 infections crossing the five-million mark on Wednesday, the UAE government authorities called upon residents to be responsible this Eid and avoid family gatherings.

“As we approach Eid Al Fitr, we trust people will act responsibly and continue their commitment to precautionary measures in place to avoid being penalised. We urge the public to avoid social gatherings and follow social distancing guidelines,” Saif Al Dhaheri, spokesperson for the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA), said during a virtual Press briefing.

“We are not closing down the country as we trust your judgement.

You have been good so far. Avoid gatherings this Eid. It’s the best gift for your family,” said Sheikh Abdul Rahman Al Shamsi, spokesperson for the General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments (GAIAE).

On Wednesday, the UAE clocked the highest number of infections in a single day with 941 infections. With Eid around the corner, the GAIAE has asked people to pray at home to avoid spreading or contracting infections.

“As per the Emirates Fatwa Council, Eid Al Fitr prayers should be performed at home. Taking all precautionary measures to protect yourself and your family is a religious and national commitment,” said Al Shamsi.

Eid Al Fitr that marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan is traditionally celebrated with a joyous spirt in the country. Visiting family members to exchange greetings and gifts is a quintessential part of Eid celebrations.

As per the Emirates Fatwa Council, Eid Al Fitr prayers should be performed at home. Taking all precautionary measures to protect yourself and your family is a religious and national commitment

Sheikh Abdul Rahman Al Shamsi

GAIAE spokesperson

dubai — Mosques across the UAE will remain closed during Eid Al Fitr, a top official has said. The Takbeer, which is chanted before the special prayers performed on Eid, will be broadcast from mosques 10 minutes before the prayer time.

During the virtual Press briefing held on Wednesday, Dr Farida Al Hosani, official spokesperson of the UAE health sector, reminded citizens and expats about the importance of adhering to the safety measures as laid out by the authorities.

Contact tracing process

“Before we began to use Al Hosn app to trace the contacts of Covid-19 cases, the tracking process used to take more than 48 hours. It also depended on the memory and honesty of people. The app is an AI-enabled methodological way to trace individuals who came in contact with Covid-19 cases so that they are isolated. It has proven to be an efficient way to stop the spread of the coronavirus,” Dr Farida said.

She called on all the public to instal the app on their smart phones. “The success of the tracing system via Al Hosn app relies on its use. We hope 50 to 70 per cent of people in the UAE instal and use the app in an effective way.”

No sermon

Sheikh Abdul Rahman Al Shamsi, Spokesperson for the General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments, said there will be no sermon for the Eid prayers. He called on everyone to welcome Eid with joy and positivity and to stay connected with their loved ones via social media.

Mass testing

Dr Amna Al Dahhak Al Shamsi, the official spokesperson of the UAE Government, said the mass testing continues across the country. She stressed on the importance of adhering to precautionary measures and cooperating with the authorities.