Saudi Arabia has decided to again tighten measures against the spread of the coronavirus. The restrictions will affect the city of Jeddah and will come into effect Saturday, for a period of 15 days.

The Kingdom’s health authorities made the decision to act after reviewing the ‘epidemiological situation and the high occupancy levels of the intensive care units in the city’.

The Saudi Gazette reports restrictions include, once again, a curfew across the city from 15H00 until 06H00. Performance of prayers in mosques is also to once again be suspended.

Workplace attendance in ministries, government agencies and private sector companies, is also to be put on hold, and there will be no eating out at restaurants and cafes.

Gatherings of more than five people will not be tolerated.

Entry into and out of Jeddah, however, can take place as long as it takes place within the curfew hours. Previously exempted categories will still be able to continue to carry operate as normal, in line with the controls laid down by the authorities.

The city of Riyadh, has also, according to the report, been witnessing a steady rise in infection cases recently. The situation there, is, however, being monitored.

For now, the rest of the Kingdom will continue as is.

Umm Muhammed Umar