DUBAI — A cafe in Dubai and two shopping malls in the emirate of Ajman have been shut down for violating coronavirus precautionary measures as the United Arab Emirates battles to stem the spread of the deadly infection in the country. Authorities shut down a café in Al Seef area of Dubai on Sunday for not committing to COVID-19 precautionary measures, most notably physical distancing. Field inspectors from Dubai Economy, the retail regulator in the emirate, also imposed fines on nine businesses for not adhering to physical distancing and employees' lack of commitment to wearing masks. In addition, six establishments were warned for not placing the physical distancing stickers as required. In neighboring Ajman, two shopping malls were temporarily closed for not adhering to preventive measures. A team of inspectors closed two shopping malls that did not adhere to the procedures, to protect the health and safety of the emirate's community, the head of the inspection team said, explaining that they will be allowed to reopen after confirming their adherence to all requirements. Meanwhile, overall, inspections in Dubai on Sunday found that 668 shops and commercial establishments fully complied with the precautionary measures. Dubai has seen a gradual return to normal and safe economic activities thanks to the directives of the leadership and the precautionary measures implemented. Dubai Economy called on everyone to cooperate and contribute to keeping the emirate's economy moving forward in spite of the pandemic threat. Dubai Economy is working closely with public and private sector partners to identify the most important developments related to COVID-19, promote awareness on the guidelines and protocols in force, and ensure that everyone adheres to them and not commit anything that endangers the society.
