Covid-19: Sharjah announces restrictions, cuts capacity at malls, gyms and cinemas

New restrictions have been announced in Sharjah to curb the spread of Covid-19, it was announced on Tuesday.

Shopping centres and malls in the emirate have to restrict the number of visitors to 60 per cent of their total capacity, the Sharjah Economic Department has stated.

Meanwhile cinemas and entertainment centres as well as gyms and fitness centres are permitted to accommodate up to 50 per cent of their total capacity, the department said.

At restaurants, a minimum distance of two metres has to be maintained between tables. The maximum number of people allowed to sit on the same table has been capped at four, unless they are part of the same family.

The department also stressed that strict adherence to two-metre distancing and wearing face masks is required at all places.

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The UAE has seen a surge in Covid-19 cases in recent weeks, leading to new precautionary measures being imposed across the country.

Earlier this week, Abu Dhabi announced that operating capacity would be capped to 40 per cent at shopping malls; 45 per cent for taxis; 50 per cent for gyms, private beaches and swimming pools; 60 per cent at restaurants, coffee shops, hotels, public beaches and parks; and 75 per cent in buses.

It also banned all parties and gatherings.

Read: Covid-19: Abu Dhabi issues new restrictions for tourism, commercial and economic activities

Last week, Dubai also tightened restrictions, reducing capacity of seated indoor venues, including cinemas as well as entertainment and sports venues to 50 per cent and of hotels, malls, swimming pools and private beaches to 70 per cent.

Restaurants and cafes are also required to close by 1am while pubs and bars have been closed.

Read: Dubai announces new Covid-19 restrictions: Mall capacity reduced, bars closed