Egypt reopens hotels for domestic tourists with strict coronavirus precaution measures

Hotels will operate at a 25 per cent capacity, increasing to 50 per cent in June

Hotels in Egypt can now reopen with a number of strict coronavirus precautionary measures in place. Getty Images 

Hotels in Egypt are set to reopen for domestic tourists on the condition they adhere to a number of health measures, including operating at no more than 25 per cent capacity until the end of May.

The news was announced on Sunday, more than a month after the government suspended international passenger flights and closed hotels, restaurants and cafes, and also imposed a nightly curfew.

For hotels to resume operations, they must have a clinic with a resident doctor, regularly screen temperatures and install disinfection equipment, the cabinet said in a statement.

Other measures being taken include making guests pre-register online and workers undergo rapid coronavirus tests when entering resorts. Hotel floors and small buildings must be assigned as a quarantine area for positive or suspected coronavirus cases.

Hotels will be able to increase to 50 per cent capacity from June 1, the cabinet said.

Hotel restaurants will only be allowed to serve a set menu, with buffets and shisha still banned. Resorts are also not permitted to host weddings or parties, or organise any entertainment activities.

Egypt, which reported 6,813 coronavirus cases including 436 deaths as of Tuesday, has eased its restrictions for the month of Ramadan, allowing more businesses to reopen and shortening the night-time curfew.

Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly has said the country would start returning to normal life gradually after Ramadan.