Combating coronavirus: Sharjah's major tourist sites reopen

Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) on Tuesday, May 26, announced reopening its popular leisure and entertainment destinations as well as restaurants following the completion of sterilisation and disinfection drive.
Major tourist destinations Al Qasba, Al Majaz Waterfront, Al Noor Island, The Flag Island, Heart of Sharjah, Mleiha Archaeological and Ecotourism Project, Khorfakkan Beach, Maraya Art Centre and 1971-Design Space have opened doors for visitors. In addition, the City Sightseeing Sharjah (CSS) has also begun transporting guests to tourist sites across the emirate.
Shurooq's other properties - The Chedi Al Bait, Al Badayer Retreat, Al Faya Retreat and Kingfisher Retreat - will also be offering hotel stays in line with the UAE's precautionary health guidelines aimed at combating the spread of Covid-19.
In accordance with the precautionary measures, visitors aged over 60 and children aged 12 and below will not be permitted to access Shurooq's destinations, with exceptions to its hospitality destinations which are welcoming families from all ages.
The developer said it will ensure that these destinations are Covid-19 safe for visitors by limiting their number in hotspot areas, monitoring temperature readings, carrying out detailed cleaning checklists and adopting strict physical distancing policies.
"As we embark on the reopening phase of our leisure destinations, as well as welcoming our guests across our prime hospitality properties, the health and safety of our guests and staff remain paramount. We are, therefore, working closely with the government authorities to ensure that the highest standards of hygiene are maintained, and that all recommended precautionary and preventive measures are in place for our guests to enjoy a well-rounded destination experience," said Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer, COO of Shurooq.
Apart from restricting visitor numbers in keeping with the physical distancing protocols in place, and operating 30 per cent of its F&B capacity, it is implementing additional safety measures such as digital and thermal temperature readings of all guests, a walk-through sanitisation booth, regular disinfection of common areas during opening hours, single entry and exit points, no entry without masks policy, and clear and visible two metre physical distancing stickers, among others.
waheedabbas@khaleejtimes.com