On March 22, the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) has issued a new circular requiring owners of health clubs, bodybuilding and fitness gyms to temporarily suspend their activities in the UAE as part of the preventive and precautionary measures being implemented to ensure the health and safety of everyone against the spread of the new coronavirus (COVID-19). ADDED has directed all relevant facilities to not receive any members until the end of March 2020. It is a courageous choice, but necessary to protect the community and win the challenge against COVID-19.

H.E. Mohammed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of ADDED, explained that the circular aims to strengthen the preventive and protective measures taken by Abu Dhabi Government to avoid the spread of the new coronavirus, stressing the authority’s commitment towards monitoring various commercial facilities registered in the Country to ensure their compliance with these urgent measures. The circular called on the relevant facilities to comply with the immediate application of its instructions, stipulating that field inspection campaigns and monitoring visits will be conducted by ADDED inspection teams. The document warned of strict legal action to be taken against establishments violating and not following the decision.