Amid the ongoing efforts to combat COVID-19, Abu Dhabi authorities have announced the closure of cinemas across the Emirate until further notice. In addition, shopping malls have been asked to operate with a capacity of 40 percent in accordance with precautionary norms in the backdrop of rising COVID-19 cases in the UAE.

On Friday, mall managers and cinema operators received a circular from local authorities informing them about the updated measures to contain the spread of the COVID-19 virus.

Speaking to the media, the general manager of a mall in Abu Dhabi said that authorities have asked the malls to function at a 40 percent capacity while restaurants and cafes have been directed to operate at 60 percent capacity. In addition, sports halls have been asked to operate at 50 percent capacity.

“We have received a circular. The total capacity at malls should be only 40 percent. We operate sports halls and gyms, so we have informed them accordingly,” the general manager said.

Another mall manager stated that appropriate steps are being taken to ensure the implementation of the order issued by Abu Dhabi authorities to contain the virus spread.

Meanwhile, cinemas have been asked to close until further notice. In this regard, Cine Royal and VOX Cinemas have confirmed that they have closed the cinema halls temporarily in line with the notice.

Taking to social media, VOX Cinemas noted that cinemas have been closed temporarily “in compliance with the government-mandated closure of cinemas in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain.”