Three popular expatriate clubs are back in business with a gradual approach in a bid to adhere to strict Covid-19 health and safety guidelines.
The British Club, one of the oldest and most popular expat establishments in Bahrain, shut its Umm Al Hassam doors in June and faced an uncertain future.
The GDN reported previously that staff members received 50 per cent pay from April and expired contracts were not renewed.
When cash flow turned critical, everyone, including the management team, went on indefinite unpaid leave until it reopened or a decision was made to permanently close.
Club manager Daniel McRae said he was delighted to welcome back members.
“We are ensuring that all facilities are booked in advance, from the gym to the swimming pool, following ministry guidelines and with additional hygiene and safety measures,” he said.
“At present, the guidelines only allow one reservation per restaurant for up to 20 people with advanced booking.”
The good ship ‘Dilly’ managed to ride the storm despite catastrophe looming, according to general manager Stephen Chartres.
“As for many, it’s been an incredibly difficult journey for the Dilmun Club, and all those directly involved, since its closure five months ago.
“Whilst damage is severe and it will take many careful years of recovery, we are thankfully open again under very strict but considered guidelines.”
He said the Saar expat club’s “fantastic and ever-loyal membership has been steadfast allowing us to retain its staff and pay them throughout”.
The Bahrain Rugby Football Club (BRFC), in Janabiya, is focusing on sporting activities during the start of the ‘new normal’.
“It’s great to be able to reopen our facilities to members wishing to participate in training,” said club chairman Mike Cunningham.
“It’s very limited at the moment and our staff team is working hard to make sure we remain compliant with the regulations of the ministries of Health and Youth and Sports.”
The club’s popular Manos Restaurant, which remained open throughout the pandemic for takeaway only, has reopened for private functions.
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