Gatherings reduced to 5 people; parks, beaches and Corniche to be reopened for all in phase 2

Doha: The Supreme Committee for Crisis Management has decided to reduce the number of people allowed in public and private gatherings to five from ten as lot of cases are reported from Qataris and white-collar expats due to uncontrolled contact with no precautionary measures.

Based on the available public health data and COVID-19 spread indicators, including passing the peak, flattening the curve, and reducing the virus’ reproduction rate, the Supreme Committee for Crisis Management has decided to launch phase 2 of the gradual reopening plan on July 1st 2020 as initially planned, a statement said.

The restricted opening of mosques will continue for all 5 prayers with limited capacity as well as the implementation of precautionary requirements.

Public and private gatherings limited to five people only will be allowed, and violators will be subject to the relevant offenses and penalties. The number has been reduced from 10 to 5 people following the discovery of numerous cases amongst Qatari nationals due to majlis gatherings and family visits, and amongst white-collar expats due to uncontrolled contact with no precautionary measures.

50% of public and private sector employees will be allowed at the workplace as needed, provided that employers meet hygienic requirements, implement precautionary measures, and continue to protect vulnerable employees by allowing them to work remotely.

Families will be allowed to rent boats and yachts in groups not exceeding 10 people.

All parks and beaches, as well as the cornice, will be reopened for people of all ages while continuing to practice social distancing. Play areas will remain closed.

Sports training in open spaces and large halls will be permitted for professional athletes in groups not exceeding 10 people.

The capacity of private health facilities will be increased to 60% while continuing to provide emergency services.

Restaurants will be allowed to reopen with limited capacity; the Ministry of Commerce and Industry will issue a comprehensive statement on the matter.

Libraries and museums will reopen with limited capacity and limited working hours.

“The Supreme Committee for Crisis Management would like to remind the public that transition from one phase to the next depends on everyone’s cooperation and adherence to the precautionary measures outlined by the Council of Ministers including wearing masks when going outside, downloading the Ehteraz application, and practicing social distancing,” the committee added in the statement.