Statement of the Supreme Committee
Within the framework of its continuous session, the Supreme Committee on COVID-19 has followed up the developments of the pandemic, its preventive measures and ways to curb its spread.
The Committee has been also briefed on reports related to the epidemiological situation of COVID-19 at the local level, which indicate a sharp increase in the number of infections, especially with “Omicron” mutant, as well as an escalating increase in the number of inpatients in COVID- 19 wards and intensive care units in hospitals in various governorates. Based on the available data, a further increase in the number of COVID-19 infections and inpatients is expected. Therefore, in order to protect members of society, especially children who have not yet received vaccination, the elderly and those with chronic diseases, and in an effort to maintain the health system’s capabilities to deal with this pandemic and provide other health services, the Committee has decided the following, which shall come into effect as of Sunday, January 2022, 23 for a period of two weeks:
Reducing the number of employees in units of the State’s Administrative Apparatus and other public legal persons to 50% of the total number of employees, provided that employees, who are required not to go to workplaces, perform their duties remotely.
I. Postponing the holding of all conferences and exhibitions.
II. Postponing any activity that requires physical audience attendance or holding them without a physical audience attendance, provided that the participants adhere to all required controls such as proof of receiving vaccination and other controls.
III. Suspending the Friday prayers, while continuing the daily five prayers in mosques, provided that 50% of the total capacity shall be maintained in accordance with the controls set forth by the Ministry of Endowments and Religious Affairs in coordination with the Ministry of Health.
IV. The Supreme Committee urges all institutions permitted to carry out their activities, especially restaurants, cafes and commercial complexes to adhere to the requirements set for such activities, namely maintaining a maximum of 50% of the total capacity, requiring proof of vaccination and wearing masks, along with other controls.
The Supreme Committee emphasizes that it continuously reviews its decisions based on the epidemiological situation, and takes appropriate decisions according to those data. The Committee also stresses on the importance of taking the required vaccinations and booster doses, as well as the need to continue adhering to the precautionary measures established by the competent authorities, whether in residence, work or public places.