The Ministry of Industry, Commerce & Tourism (MOICT) has urged restaurants, cafes, shisha cafes and other food and beverage establishments to uphold COVID-19 mitigation rules to reduce the spread of the virus, particularly during the upcoming 3 weeks during which time indoor dining will be barred. The prohibition on indoor dining begins on January 31, 2021.

The Ministry reiterated that food service facilities are required to observe seating capacity restrictions and social distancing requirements stipulated by the Ministry of Health.

Under current restrictions, reservations in outdoor areas are limited to 30 people per individual booking; occupancy at tables is limited to 50% of their capacity; a maximum of 6 persons may be seated at a table; and tables must be at least 2 meters apart.

The Ministry noted that noncompliance is an act of wrongdoing that undercuts preventative efforts, and may result in legal action against violators consistent with Public Health Law. Adherence to these measures is particularly important considering the recent increase in reported cases as well as the emergence of a new variant.