Tuesday, the Minister of State for Media Affairs Sakher Dudin affirmed the government's commitment to the noble speech of the Throne, which directed the government to prioritize citizens' health while also giving equal consideration to their livelihood, noting that a long total lockdown is not forthcoming.

He added in televised statements that the Friday lockdown will continue and will become more strict.

He said that curfew hours will be extended starting 7pm until 6 am, with the provision of delivery services so that individuals are able to meet their daily requirements.

Dudin stated that all sports facilities and gyms will be closed as a precaution in order to tackle the rise in COVID-19 cases.

No further information about the changes were given, or when these restrictions will be introduced.

Dudin added that new procedures will be introduced regarding in-person education in schools during the next two weeks seeing as the COVID-19 curve has risen very sharply and must be reduced. He noted that the government is aiming to stop in-person education.

Additionally, he indicated that every place that hosts gatherings- regardless of the type of establishment- will be shut down permanently within the next two or three weeks.

Dudin indicated that the working hours in government departments will be reduced due to the surge in COVID-19 cases.

He stressed that the harsh measures that have been discussed regarding the increase in curfew hours, stricter Friday lockdowns, and the application of the law on violaters of defense laws will be imposed in a more stringent manner in order to preserve the health and safety of citizens.

The Minister of Social Development Ayman Al-Mufleh confirmed that nurseries will remain open. Nurseries are allowed to continue operating normally, based on the health protocols set by the government.

Mufleh called on citizens, children's parents, workers and nursery owners, to adhere to the required health and safety measures which include wearing face masks and social distancing in order to limit the spread of the coronavirus.

More details to follow.