Dubai updates COVID-19 rules for social gatherings, restaurants

To further combat the spread of COVID-19, authorities in Dubai have announced new rules for social gatherings and restaurants.

According to the Dubai’s Supreme Committee of Crisis and Disaster Management, the number of people attending weddings, social events, and private parties shall be limited to 10 people, whether being held at home or hotel.

The decision comes into effect from January 27.

Dubai’s Supreme Committee of Crisis and Disaster Management mandates a new decision limiting attendance of weddings, social events, and private parties to first-degree relatives totaling a maximum of 10 people only, whether at a hotel or at home, effective Wednesday 27 January. pic.twitter.com/Zks2K3wXa9

— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) January 22, 2021

As per the new social distancing norms, the authority added that the separation distance between tables at restaurants and cafes should be increased from two metres to three  metres.

The number of people allowed to sit at one table has been reduced from 10 to 7 at the restaurants and to four at cafes.

Dubai’s Supreme Committee of Crisis and Disaster Management mandates new decision to increase the separation distance between tables at restaurants&cafes from 2 metres to 3 metres, reduce the number of people allowed to sit at one table from 10 to 7 at restaurants&to 4 at cafes. pic.twitter.com/qgISFHWQ6s

— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) January 22, 2021

Speaking on DubaiEye 103.8's Business Breakfast show, Ahmad Al Zaabi, Director of Consumer Protection at Dubai Economy, explained the reason behind the changes: