Abu Dhabi considering reopening shopping malls to ease coronavirus restrictions

Yas Mall in Abu Dhabi, where officials are weighing reopening shops. (Shutterstock)

• The Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) said Wednesday it was “consulting with stakeholders

DUBAI: The authorities in Abu Dhabi are considering reopening shopping malls as the emirate prepares to gradually increase economic activity.

The Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) said Wednesday it was “consulting with stakeholders” and preparing health and safety guidelines.

.@AbuDhabiDED is consulting with stakeholders on re-opening malls in #AbuDhabi. In line with government plans for a gradual increase in economic activity, the Department is exploring options in collaboration with the private sector. pic.twitter.com/46ny6Rmmgb

— مكتب أبوظبي الإعلامي (@admediaoffice) April 22, 2020

“In line with government plans for a gradual increase in economic activity, the Department is exploring options in collaboration with the private sector,” Abu Dhabi Media Office said.

Shoppers would be required to wear gloves and face masks and anyone with a high temperature would be denied entry, according to an ADDED circular reported in UAE media.

Measures would also be in place to limit the number of people inside stores and restaurants.

The UAE has been in a lockdown as part of tough measures to tackle the outbreak.