Abu Dhabi supermarkets, pharmacies to stay open until midnight

Food retail outlets and pharmacies in the capital must be open until midnight, and will be permitted to operate round the clock.

The announcement was made by the Abu Dhabi Media Office, which said the outlets need to strictly follow social distancing rules by not exceeding 30 per cent capacity.

The decision is based on the latest directive taken in coordination with the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority and Department of Economic Development Abu Dhabi to ensure residents have access to essentials.

In coordination with @NCEMAUAE, @AbuDhabiDED announces that food retail outlets, including cooperative societies, grocery stores and supermarkets, as well as pharmacies, must open until at least 12am and are permitted to open 24/7. pic.twitter.com/Su5GA2BE0l

— مكتب أبوظبي الإعلامي (@ADMediaOffice) April 7, 2020

As the National Disinfection Programme continues, the emirate is urging residents to stay home between 8:00 pm and 6:00 am, and step out only for essentials or medical emergencies. 

Meanwhile, people in industrial areas and labour camps have been warned not to go out between 6:00 pm and 6:00 am.