Lebanon is proceeding with the third phase of its 5-step plan to gradually reopen businesses and institutions, according to priorities and potential risks.
The implementation of the plan, which started on April 27th, saw the reopening of restaurants and cafes last week, as well as playgrounds, outdoor sports stadiums, salons, barbershops, mechanic workshops, plastic products industries, and the generator industry.
With the gradual reopening of these institutions, reportedly completed on May 10th, Lebanon now enters Phase 3 on Monday, May 11th, with the following back in operation:
- Nurseries of children below 3 years old.
- Car dealerships.
- Casino du Liban, but not entirely. Only its gaming rooms and slot palace will open and at limited capacity. Festivals and conventions remain unauthorized until further notice.
The government plan is subject to modifications according to health updates. Strict measures remain in place in regard to social distancing and wearing face-masks.
As for the remaining steps, it is expected based on the government’s plan that universities, International Baccalaureate (I.B.) classes, malls, and shopping centers reopen on May 25th.
This will be followed by the reopening on June 8th of all schools, according to the new program of the Education Ministry.
Public transportation, travel, nightclubs (at a capacity of 50% only), gyms, beaches, museums, and theaters are scheduled to resume operation as well on June 8th.
It is to note that the plan is subject to change according to the country’s health situation, which is largely the responsibility of the citizens.
Some recent violations of social distancing and gatherings by many and the unexpected rise in COVID-19 cases have compelled the Interior Ministry to reinstate the 10-hour curfew on Sunday afternoon.
Military and security forces remain under orders to take strict actions towards violations that might constitute public health hazards.
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