What are the Covid-19 rules at Expo 2020 Dubai?

With less than a month to go before Expo 2020 Dubai opens to the public in Dubai, stringent health precautions are being taken to ensure the site is safe for visitors despite the Covid-19 pandemic.

About 25 million visits are expected during the Expo, which stretches over 182 days with cultural shows and conferences taking place daily.

Representatives of countries participating in the Expo said the organisers have “relentlessly worked on sanitary and security measures” to make sure a visit to the World Expo is enjoyable and safe.

“For several months now, the organisers deployed unprecedented measures to guarantee everyone’s safety for the world to enjoy this international event,” Erik Linquier, commissioner general for the France Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai told The National.

What precautions will be in place on entry?

Thermal cameras at arrival points will check the temperature of visitors before they enter the site. Masks must be worn at all times in the outdoor areas and in all indoor settings.

How will safety rules be maintained inside the site?

Social distancing of at least two metres between people is required. All venues and common areas will be regularly cleaned and sanitised. Hand sanitiser stations are located throughout the site.

Will restaurants and pavilions follow safety guidelines?

Dining areas will keep tables distanced and maintain a pre-agreed seating capacity. Markings on the ground will indicate the distance between people when visiting exhibits, watching performances or unwinding in parks.

Plant-based food by celebrity vegan chef Matthew Kenney will be served up in Terra – the Sustainability pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai. Photo: Expo 2020 Dubai

Do visitors need to be vaccinated to enter?

Covid-19 vaccinations are encouraged but not mandatory for visitors in line with the policy of Dubai authorities. Vaccination is mandatory for the Expo workforce. Free vaccinations are available for official representatives of all countries taking part in the World Fair.

Are medical facilities available if visitors are unwell?

The Expo has three world-class medical and Covid-19 testing facilities. These will be operated by the Dubai Health Authority and will be open 24×7 and staffed by doctors and nurses. There will be on-site Expo ambulances. Anyone showing symptoms of Covid-19 will be referred to the DHA.

Where can visitors go if they feel ill?

If anyone feels ill or requires medical assistance, they can visit any one of seven first aid posts, the medical centres or ask Expo staff for help. The first aid posts are open all through the week. All staff are equipped to provide visitors with care in an emergency.

Are there storage units for medicines?

Medicines can be left at a first aid centre. The medication must be sealed and labelled with the name of the person. It must be collected at the end of the day. Any items left behind will be disposed of.

How will Expo staff keep safe?

Morning and evening inspections are being conducted on buses that transport workers to the site to ensure that Covid-19 precautionary measures are being followed. Deep cleaning and sanitation of all transport services before picking up staff and after drop-off. Expo 2020 maintains 25 per cent capacity in buses transporting workers. Open buffets have been suspended in accommodation areas.