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dubai — Weddings, along with other events and banquet parties, will soon be allowed in Dubai.

The Dubai government issued guidelines on August 3, laying down the details of the safety protocols and giving an idea of how a wedding would be like in the emirate’s new normal.

Seating arrangements would be one of the major concerns, considering that social distancing must be maintained at all times. Limitations have been set in terms of the wedding venue’s capacity, keeping in mind the scale of the set-up.

Each table must be at least two metres apart, with a maximum of four guests per table. In case they belong to the same group, only a maximum of 10 people can be seated together.

At a table where guests are not from a single group, there should be at least two vacant seats between each person, the circular added. Planners are encouraged to place physical dividers in between tables, if possible.

Greeting the bride and groom

Hugs, kisses and handshakes have all been customary greetings at weddings; it is a celebration of love, after all. Now, however, all these would have to go as the guidelines clearly state that “individuals should refrain from all greeting customs that involve physical proximity”.

Wedding wishes should be ex

tended at a distance because approaching the bride and the groom on stage will also be avoided.

While photography will be permitted with social distancing norms, there will be no dance floors for the party.

Food and giveaways

When it comes to food, buffets will be allowed but there should be waiters

stationed in the area to serve the food to guests, as self-service will be prohibited, according to the circular. Third-party catering services have been advised to use disposables in serving guests.

All gifts and giveaways brought to the venue should be thoroughly checked and sanitised. Even flowers, chocolates and beverage — which are provided by external suppliers

— must undergo quality control before they are handed over.

Cleanliness shall be maintained at every corner of the venue and throughout the function — from preparations to postevent and from the bridal room to the entry and exit points. Sanitisers should be readily available for all guests.