The UAE has announced sweeping closures as the country deals with the coronavirus pandemic.
As of today, various malls, shops, and retail outlets will be closed for two weeks (around April 8). The measures were put in place to ensure people stay inside, and to allow for a sweeping sterilization plan that will see all public areas and transport sanitized.
But what exactly is closed down over the next two weeks? Here’s a list of what’s open and what’s not:
So what can I still do?*
- You can visit a grocery store
- As well as the supermarket
- Coopoerative societies are also open
- Pharmacies will still provide assistance to those who are sick
- Bakeries will making fresh produce each morning
- Car workshops are still running
- Laundries for cleaning clothes
- Technical and electrical services to keep the lights running
- Banks and exchange houses are still in service
- Clinics for those feeling unwell
*But remember, you should only use these services if it’s absolutely necessary. Otherwise, stay at home.
And what’s closed?
- Don’t expect any shops or malls to be open
- All fish, meat and vegetable markets (except those for restaurants/hotels)
- Shisha cafes are shut
- Gyms and Fitness Centres will no longer operate
- Stay away from Theme Parks, they are closed too
- Amusement Centres and LAN Cafes
- Cinemas are not open (so use that Netflix account)
- Barbershops and women’s salons
- Massage Parlors and Spas.
Anything else?
- Restaurants aren’t shut, per se. They are still allowed to be open, but can only home-deliver food. Residents can also ask for takeaways, to pick up food
- Restaurants inside hotels and hotel apartments can serve guests, but only via room service or apartment delivery
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