Riyadh – Saudi Government will be easing lockdown restrictions to return the Kingdom to normal by resuming the economic and commercial activities in three phases, national newspaper Saudi Gazette reported.
The government’s decision will allow restarting of domestic flights, opening of mosques, restaurants and cafes, and work attendance. However, Umrah pilgrimage will temporarily remain suspended.
First Phase
The first phase will begin on May 28 that is Thursday and will end on May 30 that is Saturday.
All private cars will be allowed from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. to move within all the regions of Saudi Arabia except Makkah.
Retail and wholesale businesses including shops and malls will resume.
However, beauty salons, barber shops, sports clubs, health clubs, entertainment centers and cinemas will continue to remain closed.
Second Phase
The second phase will begin on May 31 and will end on June 20.
All types of vehicles will be allowed from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. to move within all the regions of Saudi Arabia except in Makkah.
All congregational prayers, including Friday prayers, will resume in all mosques across all the regions except in Makkah.
Employees in ministries, government entities, and private sector companies will be permitted to return to their offices provided they follow strict precautionary norms.
Domestic flights will be allowed to operate if they adhere to precautionary measures set by the civil aviation authority and the Ministry of Health.
However, international flights will remain suspended until further notice.
Cafes and restaurants serving food and beverages will reopen.
However, beauty salons, barber shops, sports clubs, health clubs, entertainment centers and cinemas will continue to remain closed.
Social gatherings of more than 50 people such as weddings and funerals will not be permitted.
Third Phase
The third phase will begin on June 21 and Saudi Arabia will return to normal state as it was before the implementation of lockdown restrictions.
First Phase in Makkah
The first phase in Makkah will start on May 31 and will end on June 20.
Only Imams and employees of Grand Mosque of Makkah will continue to hold friday prayers and daily congregational prayers, until further notice.
