The UAE government is initiating plans amid precautions, to gradually increase economic activity, which has been severely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
In line with this, Abu Dhabi plans the opening of its malls and shopping centres. Meanwhile Dubai World Trade Centre too plans to aid businesses in its ecosystem, hit by the pandemic.
The Department of Economic Development Abu Dhabi (ADDED) is consulting with stakeholders on the reopening of shopping centres and malls in Abu Dhabi. This is in line with the government's plans for a gradual increase in economic activity to offset the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
ADDED reached out to owners and managers of malls and shopping centres in Abu Dhabi and also issued them with a circular on the precautionary measures to be taken before the reopening of the facilities.
In its tweet the Department said that it is exploring options in collaboration with the private sector in line with the government’s plans
It added that it is evaluating comprehensive guidelines and measures to ensure the health and safety of the community before the plan is put into action.
There is however no date set yet for the reopening of the malls, shopping centres and other facilities.
Some of the restrictions that continue to apply include:
- Working hours from noon to 9 pm, except for supermarkets, pharmacies and money exchange houses which will be allowed to operate from 9 am till midnight.
- Restrictions continue to apply to gyms, cine halls and other entertainment avenues.
- Visitors not to use common seating areas and prayer rooms.
- Overall capacity at malls and shopping centres not to exceed 30 percent.
- Entry for senior citizens above 60 years is restricted.
- Visitors to maintain social distancing and compulsorily wear masks and gloves.
Meanwhile the Dubai World Trade Centre Authority has unveiled a series of measures to help businesses who have taken a huge hit as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.
In a couple of twitter posts the Dubai World Trade Centre Authority shared that these series of measures are to aid the sustainability of the businesses within its ecosystem after, “Taking stock of the global turbulence & recessionary pressures triggered by the rapidly evolving context of the COVID-19 pandemic.”
UAE’s Ministry of Health and Prevention announced 483 new cases of the COVID-19 coronavirus yesterday, bringing the total number of infected persons to 8,238.
