Shurooq re-opens leisure, eco-tourism destinations across Sharjah

Precautionary measures include limited visitors, temp checks, disinfection checklists, social distancing, and disposable cutlery.

The Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) has completed a sterilisation drive across its properties, and has opened doors to its popular leisure and entertainment destinations, Al Qasba, Al Majaz Waterfront, Al Noor Island, the Flag Island, Heart of Sharjah, Mleiha Archaeological & Ecotourism Project, Khorfakkan Beach, Maraya Art Centre and 1971-Design Space.

In addition, its City Sightseeing Sharjah (CSS) buses have begun to ply, transporting guests to tourist sites across the emirate.

Shurooq’s hospitality offerings, including The Chedi Al Bait, Sharjah, as well as its three Sharjah Collection properties – Al Badayer Retreat, Al Faya Retreat, and Kingfisher Retreat – are offering staycation packages for individuals, couples and families, and will be offering these hotel stays in line with the UAE’s precautionary health instructions and guidelines aimed at combating the spread of COVID-19.

Precautionary measures implemented include limited number of visitors in hotspot areas; temperature checks; detailed cleaning checklists; strict physical distancing policies; and disposable cutlery, among others.

In addition, hourly sanitisation will be conducted across all Shurooq destinations in line with the UAE’s decision permitting entertainment destinations to reopen in the UAE under strict safety guidelines, according to state-run news agency, Wam.

Shurooq will also operate its F&B outlets at 30% capacity. The entity is also implementing additional safety measures such as digital and thermal temperature readings, a walk-through sanitisation booth, regular disinfection of common areas, single entry and exit points, no entry without masks policy, and clear and visible two-metre physical distancing stickers, among others.

In accordance with the national precautionary measures and rules, visitors aged more than 60 years of age, or 12 and below, will not be permitted to access Shurooq’s destinations, with the exception of its hospitality destinations that are welcoming families from all ages.

All touch points in public areas such as door handles, elevator buttons, counter tops, table-tops and railings will be thoroughly sanitised periodically, using safe and approved chemicals and agents.

Moreover, hand sanitisers will be in place in all guest rooms and at all public spaces; temperature readings of resident, non-resident guests, and staff members will be taken; and protocols are also in place for staff in the kitchens, restaurants, and in-room dining.

The Chedi Al Bait, Sharjah’s first 5-star luxury and heritage hotel developed by the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) and managed by GHM, is also offering its staycation guests healthcare amenities such as health consultations with licensed doctors.

Commenting on the health and safety of guests, the COO of Shurooq, Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer, said: “As we embark on the reopening phase of our leisure destinations, as well as welcoming our guests across our prime hospitality properties, the health and safety of our guests and staff remain paramount.

“We are therefore working closely with the government authorities to ensure that the highest standards of hygiene are maintained, and that all recommended precautionary and preventive measures are in place for our guests to enjoy a well-rounded destination experience.”

Al Qaseer added: “Shurooq has a single-minded approach in enforcing these protocols and expect our guests to fully cooperate and take individual responsibility for their own safety and well-being while visiting all our destinations. We look forward to welcoming them again.”