Dubai has announced the gradual reopening of business activities beginning 27 May 2020 within the emirate. The announcement that there will no longer be any restrictions on movement between 6 am and 11 pm was issued at a virtual meeting of Dubai’s Supreme Committee of Crisis and Disaster Management held on 25 May 2020.
The announcement aims at adapting various spheres of life to the coronavirus (COVID-19) situation without disrupting activity in what the United Arab Emirates considers “vital” sectors. Stringent precautionary and preventive measures are maintained, including mandatory wearing of face masks, observing minimum physical distancing of two meters, the use of sanitisers, and prevention of congestion and crowding, as well as guidelines on social customs and behaviour for members of the community.
Dubai authorities instructed all key organizations to intensify monitoring and ensure that institutions, economic sectors, and the public comply with all precautionary guidelines. The emirate had also started imposing fines on individuals and entities violating such guidelines.
Commercial businesses that may open beginning 27 May 2020 include the following:
In the same week, the Abu Dhabi government issued further guidance to all hotels capping capacity at 30% with strict sterilisation and social distancing in place.
Both Abu Dhabi and Dubai’s ability to resume limited business activities is possible because of recent government led measures aimed at enhancing the emirate’s hospital capacity and increasing COVID-19 testing in densely populated areas.
While certain centres remain closed, such as schools and mosques, the UAE is moving toward the next phase of progressively reopening. We will continue to update you as changes are made to these rules.
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If you have any questions or would like more information on the issues discussed in this LawFlash, please contact any of the following Morgan Lewis lawyers:
Dubai
Mark Gilligan