Saudi Arabia to ease coronavirus restrictions on Thursday

Saudi Arabia will begin easing lockdown measures on Thursday, more than two months after they were introduced to help curb the spread of COVID-19.

That's according to the state news agency SPA, which said restrictions will be lifted in three phases with curfew completely removed from all locations, except Mecca, from June 21.

During the first phase, which runs from Thursday, May 28, to Sunday, May 31, movement will be allowed between 6:00 am and 3:00 pm. After which, it'll fall between 6:00 am and 8:00 pm.

Wholesale and retail shops and malls will be allowed to operate, as well as cafes.

However, beauty salons, barbershops, sports and health clubs, recreational centers and cinemas will remain closed.

Umrah pilgrimage and international flights will continue to remain suspended, until further review.