Community gyms in Dubai are being allowed to reopen as part of a relaxation of Covid-19 restrictions. A notice issued late last month said all gyms in residential buildings would be allowed to operate from May 31 provided capacity did not exceed 50 per cent. Despite the decision, however, many community gyms in the emirate still remain shut this week, with owners unable to confirm when that would change. Those that have opened must follow strict guidelines, with users wearing face masks at all times and continuing to observe social distancing. Rules sent to residents living in The Greens and The Views, both owned by Emaar, as well as those living in Nakheel’s Marina Residence and the Shoreline Apartments on Palm Jumeirah, included: “We would like to thank you for your patience and understanding during the last few weeks of closure and look forward to your co-operation as we restart operations,” said a notice to residents living in Nakheel properties. “A number of health and safety regulations are in place to safeguard the health of residents and staff. “The gyms are open to residents only and are operating on a first come, first served basis with a maximum occupancy [of] 50 per cent. Equipment will be disinfected after every use.” Nakheel also warned that penalties would apply to anyone found to be in breach of the new rules. The developer added that swimming pools and children’s play areas would also remain closed. Meanwhile, a notice from Emaar said any gym user displaying Covid-19 symptoms would be turned away from their facilities and that changing rooms, showers and toilets would remain closed. A statement issued by the Real Estate Regulation Agency (RERA) and Dubai Municipality also stated that the frequency of disinfecting should increase. It said this applied especially to door handles, stairs, equipment, air-conditioning units and television remote controls. Developers were also told that social distancing could be maintained by either removing equipment completely or by displaying out of use signs. <em>The National</em> contacted a number of other developers on Monday, who were unable to say when gyms in their buildings would reopen. Private gyms in the emirate were permitted to begin operating last week, on May 27. Users also have to remain two metres apart, wear masks at all times and sanitise shared equipment after each use. Personal trainers are limited to working with two clients per session.
