Ras Al Khaimah Department of Economic Development Outlines Requirements for Reopening Entertainment Halls in the Emirate

· The Department seeks to ensure business continuity and maintain high standards of public health and safety

In a circular issued yesterday, Ras Al Khaimah Department of Economic Development (RAKDED) has outlined a set of requirements and procedures for reopening entertainment halls in the Emirate, in line with the precautions set out to curb the spread of the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19).

The new procedures aim to ensure public health and safety in the Emirate, as well as business continuity, which serves to maintain Ras Al Khaimah’s sustainable development. Entertainment halls, such as children’s soft play areas, may resume their economic activities as of tomorrow (Wednesday, June 24, 2020), provided they meet the conditions and procedures outlined in the circular.

Key Precautionary Measures

The circular cautioned that facilities are allowed to be occupied at 50% of their capacity, taking social distancing measures into consideration, especially at payment areas. Group games must not exceed a total of 5 players per game and customers are encouraged to pre-book their sessions and buy tickets online to avoid physical contact. Events and celebrations are not allowed in the facilities, and seating and waiting areas should be closed.

Health and Safety

The circular calls on all entertainment halls to test their workers for COVID-19; facilities will not be permitted to re-open unless they meet this prerequisite and obtain test results of all employees from the relevant authorities. Facilities must take the temperature of all employees and customers at the entrance, barring any individual showing symptoms of the disease or having a fever exceeding 38 degrees Celsius from entering the premises.

Employees must wear protective masks and gloves at all times, while sanitisation stations should be set up around the hall, as well as at entrances and exits. Payment areas and self-service ticketing devices must be disinfected every hour, while the entire facility needs to be fully sanitised every day. Customers are required to wear protective masks at all times and violators are prohibited from entering the facility.

Social Distancing

The circular called for observing strict social distancing rules, placing floor stickers throughout all visible areas inside the hall to encourage people to remain two meters apart.

Similar signs must also be placed in front of payment areas, while customers are required to stand in one single line, with barriers necessary to control the queue.

Communication

Entertainment halls must communicate with the public through digital channels and the media to inform them of these precautionary guidelines. Ads about avoiding crowding should be displayed in clear sight of the public, particularly at entrances and exits