DUBAI: Dubai residents who wish to go outside can apply for a permit through a new website launched by the emirate’s Crisis and Disaster Management team.

The new online system, www.move.gov.ae, comes as the UAE began a nationwide disinfection program over the weekend to help contain the coronavirus.

Dubai residents can get a permit only for essential purposes, including buying food or medicine, according to a statement carried by the Dubai Media Office.

The National Sterilization Program was earlier launched by the Ministry of Health and Prevention and the Ministry of Interior. It will take place between 8:00p.m and 6:00p.m daily from March 26 to March 29 – during which, people are advised to stay at home or face penalties.

Only people with an approved permit through the new website will be allowed to leave their homes.