Council Approves New Operating Hours for Shops in Southern Governorate
Ashwini Gambo
New operating hours for commercial and service establishments located within or near residential neighbourhoods have been formally approved by the Southern Municipal Council. The decision, announced yesterday, aims to regulate business activity in a way that balances economic needs with the comfort and well-being of local residents.
Under the updated regulations, restaurants, cafés, cafeterias, boutiques and retail outlets will be permitted to operate daily from 5am to midnight, providing extended flexibility for both customers and business owners. In contrast, service-oriented establishments such as garages, workshops, scrap shops and similar outlets will adhere to more restricted timings, operating from 7am to 7pm each day to reduce noise and disruption during evening hours.
Council members highlighted that the new timings are designed to support orderly urban living while enabling businesses to thrive. The move is part of ongoing efforts to enhance municipal oversight, strengthen community harmony and ensure that commercial activity aligns with residential expectations across the Southern Governorate.
