Ministry of Economic Development has announced new service guidelines for cafes and restaurants in the Greater Male' Area. The measures were announced following a dramatic jump in COVID-19 cases in the area.
The COVID-19 situation in the Maldives has been deteriorating over the past few weeks, with the archipelago reporting a record single-day rise in infections over the past 24 hours. 734 cases were registered on Wednesday. The Health Protection Agency (HPA)on Wednesday announced a curfew in the Greater Male' Area from 9:00 pm until 4:00 am. The public will not be allowed to be out and about at this time. However, the police will continue to issue permits for delivery services and other essential needs.
According to the ministry, in line with the new curfew restrictions, all restaurants, hotels and cafes can entertain dine-in customers from 5:30 pm until 9 pm. Only takeaway and delivery services must be offered after that until 03:00 am. The new hours will be in effect until May 12th. Delivery services can be provided under a special permit issued by Maldives Police Service, said the ministry.
The ministry also said shops can provide services for walk-in customers from 08:00 am until 09:00 pm. Delivery services can be provided under the special permits issued by Maldives police service until 12:00 am. All restaurants and shops are required to adhere to the precautionary measures set by the Health Protection Agency.
