RIYADH — Following the continuing directives and efforts of the Saudi Arabian government to safeguard its citizens and residents in the Kingdom, Fawaz Abdulaziz Alhokair Co. (Alhokair Fashion Retail, or Alhokair) has announced it will reopen its fashion and other retail units effective from Wednesday (April 29), except for its outlets in Makkah. The company stated that the health and safety of its customers and employees continues to be of paramount importance and that it is working to ensure the cleanliness and sterilisation of its stores in readiness for reopening and helping its retail partners prepare. Stores reopening in shopping centres will be open from 9.30 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. daily and the company’s food and beverage outlets will remain available through mobile apps for delivery from 3.00 p.m. to 3.00 a.m. A smaller number of retail units that operate in street locations have already reopened. “Fawaz Abdulaziz Al Hokair wants to thank the authorities and the Ministry of Health for its efforts and actions that have helped create such favorable conditions, and one of the safest situations globally, to enable us to resume our business operations ahead of most countries,” said Marwan Moukarzel, CEO of Fawaz Abdulaziz Al Hokair. “In preparation for opening we are working closely with our partners to ensure the highest standards of health and safety are in place. During the ongoing crisis, the safety of our customers and staff has been our priority and we look forward to welcoming our customers back to enjoy shopping during the holy month of Ramadan. “We would request our customers to please take note of the government’s health and safety precautions to wear a mask and gloves and to ensure appropriate social distancing is observed while shopping.” As part of the ongoing measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and as part of the reopening programme, no refund or exchange of goods will be permitted during this period; changing rooms will be closed always and contactless payments by credit or debit card are encouraged. Fawaz Abdulaziz Al Hokair operates 1,550 stores across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. — SG