Dubai Police have launched the 'Your Commitment to Happiness' initiative, highlighting safety and security measures and protocols, for fans attending sports matches.
The reminder comes as the ADNOC Pro League begins on Friday, 18 August.
Major General Abdullah Ali Al Ghaithi, Assistant Commander-in-Chief for Operations Affairs in Dubai Police said, "It aims to achieve excellence and innovation in the organisational aspects, particularly regarding security, for the various competitions hosted within the United Arab Emirates."
While at sporting events, the audience need to follow the rules, as per Chapters 4 and 5 of the Federal Law No (8) of 2014 concerning Sports Facilities and Events Security:
- Fans are prohibited from entering the playing field or designated sports areas, without permission.
- Prohibited and hazardous items, including fireworks, are not allowed at the event venue.
- Individuals need to occupy only their designated seats.
- Regulations need to be followed for carrying or acquisition of weapons, as per the Ministry of Interior.
Individuals that are found not following the rules will face penalties of imprisonment for a minimum of one month and a maximum of three months or a fine between Dhs 5,000 to Dhs 30,000, or both.
Fans that partake in any form of violence can face imprisonment and a fine between Dhs 10,000 to Dhs 30,000.
Lieutenant Colonel Abdullah Tarsh Al Amimi, Coordinator of the 'Your Commitment to Happiness' initiative further added, "The same penalties apply to those who throw any substances or liquids of any type towards any other fan or towards the area surrounding the playground or the playing field. Likewise, those who utter or write any insulting language or make any gestures that would be insulting or make any statements of racial nature during the holding of the Sports Event, or exploit the stadium for political purposes, will face the same penalties."