Saudi Arabia lifts Covid curfew, to resume economic activities
RIYADH, June 20, 2020
Saudi Arabia has announced plans to lift a nationwide curfew and resume all economic and commercial activities starting from tomorrow (June 21).
However, the ban on Umrah, international flights and entry into the kingdom across land borders besides restriction on social gatherings with more than 50 people remains in place, reported Saudi Press Agency, citing an official source at Ministry of Interior.
The curfew will be lifted as of 6am tomorrow in all regions and cities of the kingdom, it stated.
The decision comes following a report submitted by the pertinent health authorities over the precautionary measures taken by the kingdom to combat the novel coronavirus (Covid-19) and the possibility of returning to normal on the following conditions.
*Emphasizing the full commitment to apply all accredited preventive protocols by all activities.
*Committing to social distancing and putting on the mask or covering the nose and mouth, by all.
*Human gatherings not to exceed 50 persons
*These procedures shall be subject to regularly periodic review by the Ministry of Health.
According to Interior Ministry officials, the Umrah situation is being regularly reviewed as per the health data (information).
They also pointed out that international flights will remain suspended while ban on the entry and exit through land and maritime borders will continue until further notice.
Imposing penalties as set forth on individuals and establishments violating decisions and instructions relating to procedures to combat spread of Novel Coronavirus (Covid-19)..
Also the government has announced that it will start permitting 75 per cent attendance at workplaces in the kingdom beginning from June 29.
With regard to the governmental bodies, total employees shall not exceed 75 per cent and they will follow flexible working timetable - and will work in three different times 07:30am, 08:30am and 09:30am, local time.
The authorities have called upon employees of both public and private sectors to abide by all Covid preventive and precautionary measures. It warned that heavy penalties will be imposed on those violating the rules.
