Dubai has introduced a new public health law aimed at stopping the spread of infectious diseases and keeping the community safe.

Under the new law, anyone infected with or suspected of having a contagious disease must avoid contact with others. They are not allowed to travel or move around unless they’re heading to a healthcare facility and have approval from the Dubai Health Authority (DHA).

No Hiding Infections

The law also makes it illegal to hide an infection or knowingly spread it, whether on purpose or by accident. People must follow all health and safety instructions from officials and medical professionals to help prevent outbreaks.

Rules for Travellers

Travellers entering Dubai must follow official health protocols. This includes:

• Providing any requested health information at entry points
• Reporting suspected or confirmed infections
• Following hygiene rules like wearing masks and keeping physical distance when required

A Broader Public Health Strategy

The new law was approved by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. It is part of a wider effort to protect public health using precautionary measures and global best practices.

It also promotes stronger coordination among government agencies to respond quickly and effectively to health threats.

More Than Just Disease Control

The law covers other areas of public health too, including:

• Food safety and rules for restaurants and food businesses
• Consumer product safety
• Environmental health, including pest control and safe living conditions in labour accommodations
• Tobacco control, managed by Dubai Municipality
• Crisis response and health emergencies, led by the DHA

Dubai’s new law aims to create a safer, healthier, and more prepared city while strengthening its reputation as a global leader in public health.

Gold prices in Dubai opened above Dh400 per gram on Thursday, bouncing back after falling by more than Dh20 earlier in the week.

Here’s how much different types of gold were selling for on Thursday morning:

• 24K: Dh400.50 per gram
• 22K: Dh371 per gram
• 21K: Dh355.75 per gram
• 18K: Dh305 per gram

This follows a rollercoaster week where gold briefly hit a record high of Dh420 per gram on Tuesday before dropping sharply.

What’s Happening Globally?

Globally, gold was trading at $3,327 per ounce, up by 1.27%. Prices had soared earlier due to economic uncertainty and global tensions, but dipped after former US President Donald Trump said he wouldn’t replace Federal Reserve chair Jerome Powell.

What’s Next for Gold?

Despite the recent ups and downs, experts still expect prices to rise. JP Morgan predicts that gold could hit $4,000 per ounce by mid-2026, driven by geopolitical tensions, global trade issues, and central banks increasing their gold reserves. They estimate the metal will average $3,675 per ounce by the end of this year.

Jewellery Demand Drops

While prices are up, demand for gold jewellery has slowed as shoppers hold off on big purchases. On the other hand, many residents are choosing to sell their gold to cash in on the high prices.

Emirates is soaring to new heights, not just in the skies, but in making air travel more inclusive for children with autism.

As part of Autism Awareness Month, the Dubai-based airline has made history by becoming the world’s first Autism-Certified Airline™, with more than 30,000 cabin crew and ground staff now trained to assist passengers with autism.

And that’s not all, Emirates has launched its heartwarming ‘Travel Rehearsal’ programme in 17 cities around the world, giving children with autism the chance to experience the airport journey before taking an actual flight. Think of it as a trial run to help little flyers feel safe, confident, and ready for takeoff.

What started last year in Dubai as a local initiative has now gone global, with rehearsals rolled out in cities like Barcelona, Brisbane, Paris, Manchester, and Toronto, and more joining every month.

The programme, developed with support from Dubai Airports, Dubai Police, Customs, and autism centres, includes mock check-ins, boarding practice, and interactions with trained staff — all designed to reduce stress and build family comfort.

Parents and teachers have hailed the rehearsals as a game-changer, helping kids feel more in control and enjoy the journey, rather than fear it.

“Travel should be for everyone,” said Adel Al Redha, Emirates’ Deputy President and COO. 

Emirates is also spotlighting neurodiversity throughout April with a special selection of movies, shows, and podcasts on its in-flight entertainment system.

While the Travel Rehearsal programme isn’t bookable yet, it’s currently available by invitation through partner centres.