The suspension includes gyms, cinemas and spring camps…

Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) has announced an immediate temporary suspension on all events and parties in the emirate. The news comes as the UAE drives forward plans to halt the spread of Covid-19.

A statement issued to hotels and nightlife venues said: “In line with Dubai Government Precautionary measures to ensure the health and safety of its residents and visitors; Dubai Tourism notifies all parties including hotels, event venues and event organisers to suspend all events including weddings and nightclubs until end of March.

“Dubai Tourism will continuously evaluate the situation in coordination with the health authorities,” it continued.

As of Sunday March 15, cinemas, gyms and spring camps have also been suspended, as well as massage parlours and spas, amusement centres and theme parks. Global Village will now remain closed until next season. Public parks and entertainment facilities will also be closed until further notice.

On Monday March 16, DTCM ordered the closure of bars, pubs and lounges (including bars within restaurants) until March 31.

Currently, as the situation stands, the suspension doesn’t include cafes or restaurants. However, it’s wise to keep checking back to What’s On* for updates throughout the month.

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DTCM has also announced the temporary closure of its theme parks: Motiongate Dubai, Legoland Dubai, Legoland Waterpark Dubai and Bollywood Parks Dubai. This will stay in effect ‘until the end of March 2020, or at such time the situation will be re-evaluated’.

The news comes as a temporary suspension on visas is also put in place in the UAE. The Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship announced that it would “temporarily suspend” the issuance of all visas, except for diplomatic passport holders, and visa-on-arrival citizens from Tuesday March 17 onwards.

The suspension will stay in effect until a mechanism for medical screening for all arrival passengers is put in place. If you already have a residency visa, you can still enter the UAE as you wish. Those on a visit visa already in the country will need to extend it online, if they wish to stay past the grace period.

*This article is being updated as the situation progresses.

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