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Coronavirus: Abu Dhabi attractions, cinemas closed

Abu Dhabi - Inspection drives will be held by the DED to ensure strict adherence to new norms.

Major tourist spots, including theme parks and cultural sites, in Abu Dhabi have been temporarily closed for this month as a preventive measure against Covid-19, authorities announced on Saturday.

"In line with precautionary measures to ensure the health and safety of visitors, Abu Dhabi's major tourist attractions, theme parks and cultural destinations will be closed from March 15 to 31 to limit large gatherings and protect public health in response to Covid-19," said the Abu Dhabi Government Media Office.

Theme parks on Yas Island include Ferrari World, Warner Brothers World, Yas Waterworld and Clymb.

Closed cultural sites include Louvre Abu Dhabi, Manarat Al Saadiyat, Qasr Al Hosn, Qasr Al Watan, Culture Foundation, Al Ain Palace Museum, Al Ain Oasis, Al Jahili Fort and Qasr Al Muwaiji. "The safety and well-being of our visitors and staff is of paramount importance. We will update you once the cultural sites resume normal operations," the Department of Culture and Tourism said in a statement.

"Other cultural centres, including Bait Al Oud, Berklee Abu Dhabi and Al Qattara Art Centre, will continue working as usual offering art classes, with restrictions according to health and safety measures."
Beaches, parks shut
Abu Dhabi beaches and public parks will be closed temporarily from today as the UAE raises measures to contain the spread of coronavirus.

Through its social media platforms, the Municipality of Abu Dhabi City announced on Saturday that the beaches and public parks in the city and its outskirts will remain shut down until further notice as precautionary measures to protect people's safety and health.

Meanwhile, Al Ain Zoo will also be closed from today until further notice. "The decision comes within our concern for the safety of visitors. We will open its doors once the safety measures are taken and completed at the state level," said Ghanim Mubarak Al Hajeri.

Authorities said the advisory notices will be updated regularly by visitor destinations across Abu Dhabi and urged public to check with each site directly for the latest information. The latest directives follow the shutdown on nightclubs and ban imposed on hotels and cafes from serving shisha.
Sheikh Zayed Mosque closed

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque will be closed for worshipers and visitors from Sunday, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre (SZGMC) announced. "The mosque will be temporarily closed for prayers and visits from March 15 to carry out the disinfection operation of the mosque and its facilities to ensure the well-being and safety of the Emiratis, residents and visitors," the SZGMC said on Instagram.
ashwani@khaleejtimes.com