It appears Abu Dhabi hotels, restaurants and lounges may be preparing to open up over the coming weeks, after a guidelines were released for a safe reopening strategy for commercial spots by the Department of Culture and Tourism, Abu Dhabi.
The majority of commercial spots in the emirate, including malls, hotels, tourist attractions and more, have been closed since March due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Following the closure of commercial activities, the national sterilisation programme was put into motion with curfews being implemented across the nation in order for the initiative to be able to take full effect.
In a circular from the DCT Abu Dhabi, considerations have been taken in order to “sustain and support the tourism industry and national economic development”, while also ensuring public health is protected.
The guidelines issues had outlined the strict measures hotels and other establishments will have to comply to prior to reopening.
Measures include stringent and regular sterilisation of facilities; masks must be worn; opening hours are to be between 6am and 9pm; no touch screen usage; and contactless payments are encouraged to be used.
All employees are also required undergo a COVID-19 test, and can only return to work if it is negative. All gloves and masks must be changed regularly. Likewise, staff members and customers will need to go through a thermal screening process before entering an establishment.
Similarly social distancing measures must be adhered to, which includes having a minimum of 2.5 metres per table, a maximum of four people per table and guests will only be allowed to stay for a maximum for three hours. Additionally, venues can only operate at a maximum of 30 per cent capacity with 2m distancing measures in place.
If and when venues meet the requirements stated, and upon approval from the DCT Abu Dhabi, the opening of establishments can be put in place.
