Dubai's intense COVID-19 lockdown requires an online permit, and exhaustive details, to go outside for any reason whatsoever. This is what it's like.
- Dubai has implemented a strict coronavirus lockdown system in which people have to apply to go outside, regardless of the reason.
- The Emirati city has forbidden outdoor exercise, and people need police permission to buy groceries or medicine, go to the doctor, or even leave home even if it's an emergency.
- The application form needs people to fill out details like their address, ID number, nationality, phone number, and means of transport. Residents are only given a set window of time that you can be outside for.
- The system can handle more than 1,000 requests per minute, but still sees delays because so many people are applying.
- Business Insider obtained screenshots of the application system from a Dubai resident. Scroll down to see them.
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Dubai is making residents apply for a police permit every time they want to leave the house during the coronavirus pandemic, even if it's to buy groceries or go to the doctor.
The online application system requires people to state their reason for going outside, even in cases of emergency.
It also requires people to fill in details like their nationality, job, phone number, ID number, and car license plate number if they are driving.
Applicants also have to state the specific location they want to visit, and outline the times they expect to leave and return home.
The system then texts people shortly afterwards to say whether their application was successful, and gives them a specific time slot in which they are allowed to move around.
Dubai, which has already banned outdoor exercise, is the only city in the United Arab Emirates operating this system. The UAE has more than 2,600 confirmed cases and 12 deaths so far.
Business Insider spoke to Dubai residents and obtained screenshots of the application process. Take a look.
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