If there is one thing that distinguishes Dubai from the rest of the world (apart from the iconic Burj Khalifa, of course), it is the city’s vibrant nightlife. However, the bustle of the emirate had taken a major hit ever since the Covid-19 pandemic struck. Amid travel restrictions that included flight bans and curbs on restaurant seating, a large chunk of the populace was confined indoors.
However, the pulsating nightlife of Dubai is back on track once again, owing to the UAE’s aggressive vaccination campaign. As the daily Covid-19 infections undergo a sustained dip, restaurateurs such as Sanjeev Nanda are elated at the resumption of pre-pandemic levels of excitement.
Revised Covid-19 guidelines
According to Sanjeev Nanda, who runs several restaurants in Dubai, the biggest respite for the hospitality sector came in the form of the revised Covid-19 guidelines issued by the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) authorities in Dubai, which came into effect on August 12, 2021.
The new set of instructions has increased the operational capacity to 100 per cent at restaurants, cafes, and hotels. At the same time, while dancing is still out of bounds, wedding and event halls can host 2500 guests. The capacity for outdoor programmes has been increased to 5000 people. Also, vaccination is not mandatory for the attendees.
A blessing for the hospitality sector
While the rush from guests began shortly after Eid Al Adha, most hotel and restaurant owners are of the opinion that the relaxation in curbs has come as a blessing for the hospitality sector. “A boost in operational capacity was much needed for the businesses that were suffering great losses during the curbs. We are delighted to see the response from the customers who are flocking out again,” says Sanjeev Nanda.
He also pointed out that while operationally not much has changed for restaurants, especially in terms of adherence to Covid-19 safety guidelines, the increased seating capacity is definitely a welcome move. “The summers are typically a quiet period for restaurants, so it is extremely exciting to see the increased footfall,” adds Nanda.
Guest expectations are paramount
According to Sanjeev Nanda, while satisfying the guests has become a bit trickier amid the pandemic, it is quite heartening to see most businesses overcoming the tribulations with flying colours. “Most guests expect the pre-pandemic service levels without much hassle. We are doing our part by getting the staff vaccinated,” he said. Nanda continued, “As restaurant owners, it gives us great pleasure to see our guests cooperate with our staff in adhering to the safety guidelines. Many diners are missing dancing a lot, but with mutual cooperation and abidance of the Covid-19 instructions, even dancing will resume soon. We are hoping for the best.”
