Commercial and shopping centers in the UAE are exploring the possibility of reopening business activities with necessary precautions during the Ramadan season.
This came following the announcement of the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) and the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority (NCEMA) directing economic departments of each emirate to study the continiuity of business activities of commercial centers, provided that all relevant precautionary and preventive measures will remain in place.
The governments of Abu Dhabi and Dubai have both come up with a set of guidelines.
Abu Dhabi plans to gradually increase its economic activities to alleviate the impact of the global pandemic on the local economy.
The Department of Economic Development Abu Dhabi (ADDED) said it is already collaborating with private sector and stakeholders on reopening of malls in time for Ramadan.
“The swift adoption of wide-reaching preventive measures, including high testing rates and the use of technology to curb the spread of Covid-19, has enabled us to commence plans for re-opening parts of the economy,” Mohammed Al Hammadi, Chairman of ADDED, said.
However, they plan to limit the number of mall visitors to maintain social distancing. All staff must also undergo COVID-19 testing to ensure that transmission of the disease will not happen.
Entertainment centers in malls will also remain closed.
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Meanwhile, Dubai shopping malls, along with souqs, high-streets and other establishments in wholesale trade, may operate up to 10 hours daily. However, they must also reduce the footfall of visitors to 30 percent.
Visitors will only be allowed to stay “for a maximum of 3 hours” and physical distancing must be observed all the times.
Elderly above 60 years old and children between the age 3-12 years old will not permitted to enter the premises. Additionally, entertainment and tourist attraction will be closed to restrict crowding.
Seventy-five percent of mall parking will also remain closed and valet parking services remain suspended.
Although there is no mention of any date for reopening the businesses, business owners were asked to be on standby for official announcements.
