Filipinos have had the habit ‘HHWW’ or ‘holding hands while walking’ especially for husband and wife as their gesture of endearment. However, with the UAE’s strict rules on social distancing, many couples have had to split up whenever they are walking on public spaces in adherence to the rules.
Both Abu Dhabi Police and Dubai officials clarified to The Filipino Times that holding hands while walking is normal and won’t be fined if in the couple is legally married in the country.
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However, other individuals who do the same deed or do other forms of close physical contact such as hugging, ‘beso-beso’ greetings, and similar acts face penalties of up Dh 3000 for the violation social distancing measures.
Earlier, Dr. Amna Al-Dahhak Al Shamsi reiterated the UAE’s call seeking the public’s cooperation to avoid the spread of the coronavirus disease, citing that the slight increase in the number of cases is a cause for concern and is due to the negligence of some individuals who refuse to adhere to the preventive measures and guidelines.
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Dr. Al Shamsi asserted that all those who violate guidelines risk not only their own health but the health of those around them and the wider community. Those who violate continually risk legal action and fines from the state.
She appealed to all members of society to fully comply with the instructions issued by the authorities, stressing that commitment is necessary and indispensable in the current period, especially with the reopening of various economic and business activities.
