The UAE’s National Emergency, Crisis and Disasters Management Authority has denied rumours swirling on social media that shopping malls and commercial centres will again be closed to combat the Covid-19 pandemic.
The rumours on social media falsely claimed that shopping malls and commercial centres would be closed for a renewable period of two weeks, as was the case during the UAE’s lockdown period to combat the spread of Covid-19.
Additionally, the rumours said that restaurants would be obliged to provide delivery services only.
“The authority has stressed the importance of obtaining news from the official authorities and called on all members of the public to ensure the authenticity of the information beforehand,” said the UAE’s state-run Wam news agency.
“Failure to do so exposes individuals to legal repercussions and fines will be applied to anyone who spreads rumours and incorrect information,” the Wam statement added.
On Sunday, the UAE announced a revamp of its government, merging 50 percent of federal agencies as it seeks to shore up finances hit by both the Covid-19 pandemic and a slump in oil prices.
To date, a total of 51,540 Covid-19 cases have been confirmed in the UAE, including 323 deaths and over 40,000 recoveries.
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