Saudi Gazette report

JEDDAH — As part of the easing of coronavirus restrictions, authorities in Dubai have decided to reopen smoking areas and let restaurants serve shisha amid strict precautionary measures.

The move, which is effective from Saturday (July 18), was announced by Dubai Municipality on Friday.

In a tweet on Friday, the municipality said it has issued precautionary measures for reopening of smoking areas in public places, starting July 18 until further notice, adding regular inspections will be conducted to ensure compliance.

“#DubaiMunicipality issued the precautionary measures to reopen smoking areas and shisha serving areas starting from 18th of July until further notice, per the highest international preventive measures and regular inspections will be conducted to ensure the compliance,” the tweet read.

Cafes and restaurants serving shisha were banned in the UAE in the month of March as a precautionary measure to curb the spread of the COVID-19.

The municipality's external circular has listed 34 regulations and safety protocols for the reopening of shisha cafes.