ADDED issues new circular ordering temporary closure of malls and shopping centres in Abu Dhabi for a period of two weeks

The Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) has issued a new circular directing the temporary closure of all malls and shopping centres in Abu Dhabi for a period of two weeks. The circular, which is in compliance with the directives of the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority  and the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP), is part of the preventive measures being implemented to ensure the health and safety of the community against the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19).

Essential facilities exempted from the ADDED circular include medical and health care providers, F & B outlets, supermarkets, groceries, pharmacies and administrative services providers.

H.E. Mohammed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of ADDED, said that the circular follows a series of circulars that ADDED had released recently aimed at consolidating the preventive measures being implemented to help stop the spread of COVID-19 while also ensuring that social distancing measures are properly complied with to help save the community from transmission of the virus. 

H.E. emphasized on the importance of these temporary circulars, especially in effort to control the spread of the virus and its permanent elimination. Al Shorafa called on all members of society--citizens, expats, communities and institutions--to comply with all of these measures as they are part of their social responsibility. 

According to the circular, all malls and shopping centres shall remain closed from March 25, 2020 and will last for two weeks subject to review and evaluation. ADDED will be conducting regular inspections of these facilities to ensure compliance with the circular and due action will be taken on any spotted violations.