Abu Dhabi’s ban on smoking shisha in public places has been in place since March…

Abu Dhabi’s Department of Economic Development has withdrawn its restrictions on licensed cafes and restaurants in the capital offering shisha.

The ban has been in place since March as part of a series of measures that were key in protecting public health during the height of the pandemic.

Relaxing of these and other similar rules has been possible thanks to the success of Abu Dhabi and UAE policy implementation.

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And to ensure that the ‘return to normality’ occurs safely, protecting customers and staff, new hygiene rules have been issued to shisha vendors in Abu Dhabi.

What are the rules around serving shisha in Abu Dhabi?

Single-use shisha pipes and equipment must be used; smoking areas must be isolated; the frequency of shisha equipment cleaning must be increased; sampling by staff and customers is prohibited.

Of course all the other rules and requirements of cafes, restaurants and eateries around hygiene and social distancing must be adhered to.

Will shisha staff need a PCR test?

Yesterday we learned that all cafe and restaurant staff will require Covid-19 tests every 14 days. These tests must be PCR format (nasal swab), DPI tests are not admissible in this instance.

The announcement was made with a requirement that it must be the employers in these sectors covering the cost.

Images: Getty