Egyptian-German ensemble Cairo Steps have stated on Monday that they are halting their December concerts for the first time in 11 years to keep their fans safe amid the global pandemic, promising to return to action by Valentine's day in February.

"Cairo Steps have decided to launch a call for all artists, producers, and decision makers in Egypt to close theaters and indoor halls, and to stop big activities and gatherings in the upcoming weeks before a second wave kicks in," the awarded band stated.

The band's founder, Egyptian composer and oud player Basem Darwisch, has confirmed that he became cautious regarding gatherings, to avoid the spread of COVID-19, a few weeks after his reassuring remarks during the Arabic Music Festival in November.

Cairo Steps have revealed that conductor Nayer Nagui, who frequently leads their orchestra, has also halted performances during the Christmas season's month.

Cairo Steps have recently been the cherry on top of Christmas concerts in Cairo with their multi-cultural sound that blends folk music with contemporary tunes.

Egypt has resumed public cultural and entertainment activities in July — after a four-month lockdown — with many events being scheduled in various venues across the country celebrating winter and welcoming the new year.

Egypt was ranked first across Africa, third in the Middle East, and 25th globally in Bloomberg’s COVID-19 resilience ranking, an infographic published by the Egyptian cabinet's Information and Decision Support Centre showed on Saturday.

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