The Dubai Government, through the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) and the Dubai Police, announced on Tuesday (November 10) that it is allowing residents with certain medical conditions to apply for permits for exemption from wearing face masks.
Despite the government’s strong position in its fight against the spread of COVID-19 through its programs and its implementation across the emirate, the government has also acknowledged the need for some residents to have the option to not wear face masks due to certain medical conditions.
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Who Are Allowed to Apply for a Permit to Not Wear Face Masks in Dubai?
The applications will be evaluated by the DHA’s General Medical Committee Office, and must include a medical report confirming that the applicant suffers from medical problems that can be aggravated by wearing face masks, state news agency WAM reported.
Residents who meet the requirements set by the health authority may file their applications through the portal developed by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) and Dubai Police: www.dxbpermit.gov.ae.
Mask Exemption Permit in Dubai
According to the report shared by WAM, those who suffer from the following medical conditions are eligible to file an exemption permit:
• Fungal dermatitis, especially if they have severe symptoms in the face like bleeding, itching, and scaly skin.
• Those allergic to any component of a mask (allergic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, contact urticaria).
• Individuals with severe herpes simplex infection that affects the mouth, nose, or face.
• Individuals with acute and uncontrolled chronic sinusitis.
• Patients with uncontrolled asthma.
• People of Determination who have mental and psychological conditions.
According to the report, the Committee will handle and evaluate all of the requests and accompanying medical documents against certain criteria and conditions.
The application will be processed within five (5) days.
Moreover, the validity of the permit to be granted to an applicant will depend on the need and severity of their medical condition.
Despite this, authorities continue to urge residents who may be exempt to wear face masks while in public places to still do so, if possible, in order to protect themselves and others from the risk of infection.
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