Picture used for illustrative purpose only.

Gulf Today, Staff Reporter

Restaurants in Dubai will not be required to screen visible dining areas during fasting hours in the Holy Month of Ramadan this year.

According to circular issued by Dubai’s Department of Economic Development on Sunday restaurants will be allowed to serve customers without putting in place curtains, dividers or facades as has been the mandatory practice previously.

Restaurants are also not required to obtain a permit for serving food to customers during Ramadan fasting hours.

The new circular replaces circulars issued in previous years that have required restaurants to block dining areas from the sight of those who are fasting.

The new circular will come into effect from the first day of the Holy Month of Ramadan.

Meanwhile, Abu Dhabi Police have announced that heavy-duty trucks, lorries, and buses carrying more than 50 passengers will be banned on Abu Dhabi roads between 08:00 and 10:00, and from 14:00 to 16:00 throughout the Holy Month of Ramadan.

The police have urged drivers of heavy-duty trucks to adhere to this schedule and to contribute to making the emirate's road safer during the Holy Month.