Authorities across the United Arab Emirates on Monday announced the temporary closure of major leisure destinations and advised remote working for parts of the private sector, citing precautionary safety measures linked to ongoing regional developments.
Among the attractions closed for the day is Ain Dubai, the giant observation wheel on Bluewaters Island. Operators said the landmark would not operate on March 2 and urged visitors with existing bookings to check its official website for updates before travelling.
Dubai Parks and Resorts also announced it would remain closed on Monday following national guidance. The entertainment complex, which houses several theme parks and attractions, advised guests with pre-booked tickets to monitor official channels for reopening details and ticket options.
The closures come as authorities emphasised that the measures are preventive and subject to change depending on how the situation evolves.
In the labour sector, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation urged private companies to adopt remote working wherever feasible from March 1 to 3. Firms were advised to limit the number of employees in open or shared spaces and ensure that only roles requiring physical presence continue on-site.
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Officials said businesses should closely follow updates from federal and local authorities for any adjustments to the guidance.
The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), the Gulf’s leading financial hub, confirmed that its employees would work remotely from March 2 to 4 while maintaining normal services. Clients and companies operating within the centre were also encouraged to enable remote work for staff and remain indoors where possible.
Regular Ramadan working hours remain in place at DIFC during this period. The DIFC Authority operates Monday to Thursday from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm and on Friday from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm, while DIFC Services runs Monday to Thursday from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm and Friday from 9:00 am to 11:00 am.
Authorities stressed that emergency and essential services would continue uninterrupted.
The announcements follow heightened regional tensions, though officials did not specify particular incidents behind the precautionary steps. The UAE has in recent days reiterated calls for vigilance while emphasising that the measures are preventive in nature.
Residents were urged to remain indoors where possible, adhere to instructions from employers and check verified official sources before making travel or leisure plans. Authorities also cautioned against circulating or relying on unverified information on social media.
The UAE, a major tourism and business hub in the Middle East, frequently adopts precautionary measures during periods of regional instability to ensure public safety and operational continuity.
Officials said further updates would be communicated through official federal and emirate-level channels as necessary.
For now, residents and visitors are advised to postpone non-essential outings, monitor official websites of affected venues and follow employer guidance regarding remote work arrangements.
Authorities reiterated that the steps are temporary and precautionary, with normal operations expected to resume once it is deemed safe to do so.
