The Dubai Supreme Committee for Crisis and Disaster Management has issued protocols to be followed on reopening of malls, shopping centers and outlets in the emirate.
According to the guidelines, shopping malls, markets and commercial outlets will be open daily to the public from 12:00 pm to 10:00 pm.
Also, mall management must ensure that the number of visitors in the common area must not exceed the 30 percent capacity set by the authorities.
As per the guidelines, the public should visit a mall only when absolutely necessary.
Individuals above the age of 60 and children between three and 12 years of age will not be barred from entering the mall’s premises.
Shoppers must wear face masks throughout the duration of their visit inside the mall. Shoppers who will not adhere to this rule will not be allowed to enter the mall.
Malls and retail outlets are not allowed to hold entertainment events and activities to avoid congestion and crowding.
Moreover, all family entertainment attractions, prayer rooms, changing rooms, and movie theatres will remain closed.
Parking
As per the guidelines, the first hour of parking in shopping malls will be free.
Only 25% of the parking spaces will be open in order to reduce overcrowding in malls.
Valet parking will remain suspended.
Sterilization
Disinfection and sanitation operations will continue inside malls.
Visitors will be subject to temperature checks at entrances and will be required to wear masks as a condition for entering a mall.
Malls are also required to make hand sanitizers widely available to ensure the highest level of protection for visitors and workers.
All shopping malls will be required to have a medical isolation room for emergency purposes in case someone in the mall is suspected to be infected with the virus.
Purchasing
As part of a new mandatory policy, purchases can be returned or exchanged at all stores and outlets only if there is a defect.
Malls and outlets are encouraged to use smart and electronic payment methods and avoid the use of cash.
Restaurants
Food and beverage outlets inside the mall must reduce seating capacity.
Seating density should be maintained 4 square meters per individual and tables and seats should be placed two meters from each other.
All outlets must follow the guidelines set for sterilization of facilities.
Restaurants outside the malls can serve food and beverages and receive customers as long as it will reduce its seating capacity to 30 percent.
They should also adhere to the guidelines set for sterilization of facilities and should not offer open buffet or shisha.
Ladies Salon and Barbershop
Services offered at salons for males and females will be restricted to hair and nail services only.
Customers can be received only through prior appointment and all preventive and health measures must be observed.
