Entertainment centres in Saudi Arabia have been shut down on Thursday, to tighten coronavirus restrictions amid spike in infections.
The entertainment centres that were closed includes cinemas and dine-in services at restaurants.
In reaction to the development, the interior ministry disclosed in a statement released by the official Saudi Press Agency that the kingdom suspended “all events and parties” including weddings in banquet halls or hotels for 30 days.
In addition, there was a strict warning that suspension could be extended, while putting to a halt, “all entertainment activities” including cinemas and gaming parlours. Dine-in services in all restaurants and cafes were also suspended for 10 days.
According to the ministry, the measures, which will be implemented from 10.00 pm Thursday (1900 GMT) are aimed at “preventing the outbreak of a second wave” of the pandemic.
Health Minister Tawfiq al-Rabiah also warned on Sunday that new coronavirus restrictions could be imposed if citizens and residents do not comply with health restrictions.
So far, Saudi Arabia has reported 6,400 casualties, the highest among Gulf Arab states and almost 369,000 coronavirus cases.
