Many businesses have been permitted to re-open as the lock down in Male' region eases tomorrow.

Male’ City went under lock down on 15 April 2020 after it was announced that a case of COVID-19 has been found in the city and a community spread is in effect. After more than a month, the lock down on the Maldivian capital will be lifted tomorrow in the form of some eases to the lock down in different phases.

Speaking at the NEOC press conference tonight, Health Minister, Abdulla Ameen said that the first phase will be two weeks and a decision will be made based on how well the first phase goes.

And so, starting tomorrow, three people from each house hold can go out twice a week for two hours and the zones they can be out on will be extended as well.

The first phase of the lock down ease will include the reopening of the following:

  • Supermarkets
  • Corner shops
  • Bookshops
  • Children’s goods shops
  • Hardware stores
  • Mobile phone and electronics shops
  • Delivery services
  • Electronic repair shops
  • Workshops
  • Construction sites
  • Fish market

Minister Ameen said that consumer stores, sports equipment and local produce stores will be given the opportunity to operate online and delivery service. He said that restaurants and cafés will be allowed to provide food delivery and takeaway services.

In the first phase of lifting the lock down, the following will remain closed:

  • Schools
  • Travel between islands
  • Parks and beaches
  • Saloons and gyms
  • Sports and recreation centers
  • Public transportation