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721 beachgoers in Dubai fined for violating anti-Covid measures

Dubai - The police will spare no efforts to deter the violators

A total of 721 fines were issued to beachgoers in Dubai as they soaked in the sun and sand without adhering to Covid-19 safety rules. The fines were issued from March till September 20, the police said.

Colonel Saeed Al Madhani, acting director of Dubai Ports Police Station, said the force won't tolerate residents flouting measures laid out to keep residents safe.

Beaches and parks in the emirate reopened on May 30 - weeks after they were closed as a precautionary measure against the spread of the virus.

Beachgoers are required to wear a face mask, maintain adequate social distance and not go in groups of more than five, except members of the same family. Not wearing a mask and failing to ensure distance are punishable with a Dh3,000 fine.

Col Al Madhani said the police use multiple methods to ensure compliance. Bicycle and boat patrols and drones are used to monitor beach-goers. "The drones used by the police are equipped with cameras that can take photos during the day as well as night," the officer said.

The fines announcement comes as authorities across the country stepped up inspections against Covid safety rules violators. On Tuesday, the Dubai Economy said it had fined four businesses - three for employees not wearing masks and one for not ensuring social distancing. The authority also warned 18 others for not placing physical distancing stickers.

On Monday, authorities in Dubai and Ajman had ordered the closure of 11 businesses and fined nine others.