Social events for weddings are now permitted at homes in Dubai, so long as you stick to the following guidelines…

**Updated on November 18: On November 17, the National Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) shared key guidelines for entertaining during the festive season. Among these are a ban on private gatherings in the home.**

On October 28, the Dubai Health Authority took to social media to remind Dubai residents of the safety guidelines for hosting social events at home.

Here’s the full list of guidelines for hosting social events in Dubai:

  • Social gatherings should not exceed 30 people at home or in tents (and up to 200 people in hotel ballrooms or halls)
  • You must ensure the space is big enough to maintain social distancing at all times
  • Up to five people can be seated on one table, and tables should be spaced apart
  • Events cannot last longer than four hours
  • Ensure your venue has proper ventilation
  • Avoid serving a buffet, where possible
  • Disinfect and sanitise all surfaces and facilities frequently
  • Don’t hand out party gifts
  • Avoid shaking hands, kissing and hugging – DHA suggests you just wave from a distance
  • Wear a face mask at all times, except when seated at a table
  • Guests should avoid sitting face-to-face, and maintain a distance of two metres between each other
  • People with symptoms such as a cough or fever must refrain from attending, and elderly people and those with chronic conditions should avoid gatherings

Weddings are permitted in Dubai, with up to 200 people allowed in hotel ballrooms and event halls. As always, take care when entertaining and mixing with different groups, by wearing a mask and frequently sanitising your hands and surfaces.