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- Saudi Arab Announces to lift the curfew partially throughout the kingdom from today till 20th Ramadan, 9 am to 5 pm
- However, 24-hour curfew will keep imposed in Makkah city and surrounding areas.
In an unprecedented move, The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman ordered to lift the curfew partially in all regions of the kingdom starting from today till May 13. Saudi Press Agency reported that in coordination with the health authorities, it is decided to resume the halted business activities following the precautionary measures as instructed by MOH.
Most of the regions will have a partial curfew however Makkah and the surrounding areas which are already isolated will continue with 24 hours curfew to fight and prevent the spread of coronavirus.
Now it is permitted to open more businesses and economic activities in the following sectors.
- Wholesale Trade Stores and Retail Shops
- Commercial Centers ( Shopping Malls)
However, the authorities will strictly observe any activity which doesn’t achieve physical distancing, The following shops will remain under strict scrutiny to keep the pandemic spread at a minimum.
These shops include beauty clinics, barber salons, sports and health clubs, recreational centers, cinemas, beauty salons, restaurants, cafes and other businesses determined by the competent authorities
The contracting companies, the Construction sector, and factories are also granted permission to start activities without any time restrictions according to the nature of their business, opening from 6th Ramadan (Wednesday) until 20th Ramadan.
In addition, the authorities will resume the jobs of those who are responsible for monitoring economic, commercial, and industrial activities, based on the instructions, precautionary measures, and preventive measures approved by the Ministry of Health, and the competent authorities.
It is also Emphasized to continue the application of social divergence procedures, including continuing to prevent gatherings for social purposes for more than five people, such as wedding occasions, solace councils, etc., as well as gathering in public places at times of permitting wandering.
It is also decided that the prescribed penalties will be imposed on the firms and companies that violate the regulations and instructions as stated by the relevant authorities. The violation may end up with the closing or suspension of the license.
The partial lifting of the curfew is subjected to continuous evaluation during the indicated period. And the next decision will be announced according to the situation.
The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques also instructed the Ministry of Interior to coordinate with other concerned authorities on any amendments to the curfew procedures required by health developments.
The royal decree also included the concerned authorities urging citizens, residents, and employers to sense responsibility and adhere to the precautionary measures and preventive measures, so that this pandemic can be overcome and adhere to the directions issued by the competent authorities.
