ABU DHABI — The United Arab Emirates has introduced hefty new fines for people who break COVID-19 regulations brought in to contain the spread of the coronavirus. The updated list included a new focus on deception offences, including a $5,500 fine for cheating or providing incorrect information to evade quarantine or precautionary measures. People deliberately not disclosing the details of individuals coming into the country from abroad can also be fined $5,500, as can employers who fail to report workers who have tested positive for COVID-19 to health authorities. Anyone conducting medical tests to detect COVID-19 without obtaining approval from the relevant authorities can be fined $5,500, and the penalty doubles if the violation is repeated. Fines have been introduced for violating the rules regarding workers" accommodation, including a $5,500 penalty for housing too many people in flats or residential units, or in unlicensed places. Further penalties were introduced for people not following home quarantine instructions and for disobeying the rules at quarantine facilities. Institutions and companies also face fines for breaking precautionary measures, and individuals can receive penalties for violating judicial orders or for breaking safety rules when stopped at checking points. Citizens and residents in the UAE have been urged by the Attorney-General Office to abide by the law and follow the precautionary measures and decisions issued by relevant authorities to protect their health and safety. — WAM