The Sharjah Economic Development Department (SEDD) has introduced new measures with the aim of combating the spread of the COVID-19 virus in the city. According to a SEDD official, the measures include capping of operating capacity of various services across the city.

As per new rules, the operating capacity of public transport has been reduced to 50 percent, while for commercial centres, it has been capped at 60 percent. Cinemas and other entertainment activities have been asked to operate at a capacity of 50 percent. Parks and beaches will be opened with 70 percent operating capacity. Swimming pools and private beaches in hotels are allowed to function at 50 percent capacity.

In addition to these measures, the authorities have postponed all musical concerts for four weeks, which can be extended in accordance with the pandemic situation in the city.

Restaurants and eateries must adhere to social distancing measures in their premises, ensuring that no more than four people are sitting at one table. However, an exception can be made if there are more members of the same family at a table, according to the authorities.

For wedding ceremonies, the maximum number of guests has been capped to 10 while 20 people are allowed at funeral services. A maximum of eight people is allowed to carry a body for burial, while only two persons will be permitted to dig a grave.

In line with the new measures, employees of government and semi-government institutions across the emirate are required to undergo a weekly PCR test. However, employees in the private sector must undergo a PCR test once in two weeks. Authorities have made an exception for those who have received the COVID-19 vaccine in participation with the national vaccination programme.

Meanwhile, the Executive Committee for Crisis and Disaster Management in Sharjah has urged the public to comply with all precautionary norms to contain the spread of the COVID-19 virus. It noted that any violations or offenders will invite penalties, adding that complacency will not be tolerated.