21-day curfew
A curfew has been imposed in Saudi Arabia in order to contain the spread of COVID-19.
As per orders from King Salman, the curfew will be in put in place every day from 7pm until 6am. The initial curfew period will last three weeks, starting from Monday, 23 March, the official Saudi Press Agency reported, with a royal order cited.
Some people will be exempt from the imposed curfew including those who work in vital parts of public and private sectors. This includes those in the military, security, media and in the health and service industries.
According to the Saudi Health Ministry, the current number of coronavirus cases sits at 511, with 18 of those cases having recovered, and there have been no fatalities in the country.
Cinemas, malls and restaurants have been shut down in the country, and flights have been suspended. Prayers have also been suspended inside mosques in Saudi Arabia, except for Mecca and Medina.
Similar suspensions and shutdowns have taken place in the UAE.
As of Wednesday 25 March, all UAE malls are to close for the next two weeks with the decision subject to review and reassessment.
Cinemas, gyms, parks, bars, lounges, public and privates beaches and more have all been shut down. Prayers in public places of worship have also been suspended.
Restaurants are also no longer allowed to take customers, and can only stay open if they have a delivery option.
The UAE government has also urged everyone not to leave their homes, unless it’s “absolutely necessary” to get essential supplies like food and medicine, or if you are person in an essential job.
Last night a joint statement was issued by the Ministry of Interior and the National Emergency and Crisis and Disasters Management Authority telling all UAE citizens, residents, vistors and everyone living in the country to follow the guidelines that have been issued: limit social interactions and avoid going to crowded places.
More information on coronavirus:
- Tips on how to prevent the spreading of coronavirus
- Coronavirus in the UAE: Food and supplies to stock up on
- Coronavirus in the UAE: What the visa suspension means for you
Feature image: King Salman Instagram
