Abu Dhabi: Increased capacity for establishments, public services from Aug 20

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Abu Dhabi - The capacity for malls, entertainment centres, cultural centres, museums, and movie theatres increased to 80 per cent.

By Ashwani Kumar

Published: Sun 15 Aug 2021, 2:17 AM

Operating capacity and occupancy rate of malls, cinemas, for hosting events, among others will be increased from August 20 when the ‘green pass’ system comes into effect again.

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From Friday (August 20), only fully vaccinated individuals can enter most public places in the emirate.

The capacity for shopping malls has been doubled to 80 per cent, cinemas will be up to 40 per cent from the current 30 per cent. Similarly, entertainment centres, cultural centres, museums can function at 80 per cent capacity.

Additionally, restaurants and cafes can have guests up to 80 per cent, allowing up to 10 people to sit at one table. But guests have to wear masks when they are not dining.

Capacity cap at community and sports events, corporate events such as exhibitions and conferences, and entertainment events, and wedding halls has been increased to 60 per cent. People attending these events must show a negative PCR test result received within 48 hours of the event.

Also, public transportation can operate with 75 per cent passenger capacity. Public buses currently operate at 50 per cent. A taxi driver can travel with up to 3 passengers in a 5-person taxi and 4 passengers in a 7-person taxi.

The Abu Dhabi Emergency, Crisis and Disasters Committee said the ‘green pass’ system will add “another layer of protection” to the existing safety protocols. The increased capacity in public places is only for vaccinated community members.

Community and sport events, corporate ones such as exhibitions and conferences, and entertainment events including theatre plays and concerts will enjoy increased capacity to 60 per cent.

Also, wedding halls can have guests up to 60 per cent capacity, with a maximum of 100 people in the hall. Entry to all the public places hosting these events will use the green pass system and people must show a negative PCR test result received within 48 hours of the event.

The committee encourages all community members to implement the green pass system at private events and family gatherings to preserve public health and curb the spread of the virus.

The operating capacity of health clubs, sports academies, gyms, and spas will be maintained at 50 per cent. People have been urged to wear masks and follow physical distance.

The committee has reiterated that successfully combating Covid-19 requires that all individuals adhere to the precautionary measures and share the responsibility of protecting everyone in the community.

ashwani@khaleejtimes.com