Dubai will reopen its shopping malls completely from Wednesday. The emirate’s Supreme Committee of Crisis and Disaster Management said all malls and private-sector businesses would be able to operate at 100 per cent capacity for the first time in more than two months. Malls were closed along with other commercial establishments and public venues at the end of March to stem the spread of Covid-19. They were allowed to reopen towards the end of April, but with visitor capacity initially limited to 30 per cent and strict safety measures in place. Malls will be allowed to operate between 6am to 11pm, in line with Dubai’s stay-home orders. Working hours for companies and mall operating hours will be determined at the discretion of the business, so long as it is within the period in which public movement is permitted. The committee stated the decision had been taken in light of efforts to gradually resume economic activities in the emirate. Staff and customers are urged to continue to abide by safety regulations, including wearing face masks if mandated and practising social distancing. Temperature checks will continue to be carried out for employees and visitors alike, while isolation rooms must be set aside for those displaying symptoms of the virus. Staff must wash their hands regularly and use sanitisers when necessary. The authority said people at greater risk of infection – including those with chronic illnesses and low immunity – should continue to work remotely. Rigorous safety measures will continue to be enforced in malls and commercial centres, including continued sterilisation and the use of thermometers or thermal scanners at all entrances. Earlier this week, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid said the UAE must resume economic activity but urged people to be responsible. Speaking at the first Cabinet meeting since government workers returned to their offices, the Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai said employers must put measures in place to protect staff so the “wheel of economy” could turn. “We have entered a new stage, the stage for gradual return to economic life,” he said on Twitter. “Every person is responsible. All institutions and sectors are involved in protecting their staff. “Health will remain a priority and a responsibility. Returning the wheel of the economy is strategic and necessary.”
