The Egyptian authorities have said they will oblige citizens seeking traffic-related services to wear face masks, a day after the government said it would eased some coronavirus restrictions.

In a statement on Friday, the interior ministry said masks will be a “requirement” for those going to traffic departments to get licenses for new vehicles, starting Sunday, when the offices will re-open.

On Thursday the government said curfew hours would start from 9pm instead of the previous 8pm from Friday, the first day of the holy month of Ramadan.

The government has also said it will gradually ease restrictions to take steps to help return life to normal after the Eid Al-Fitr religious holiday, which marks the end of Ramadan.

Some of the government services suspended by the state will resume as of next week, including licensing new vehicles and limited registration services. Courts will be allowed to hold inheritance hearings.

Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly has urged citizens to continue to consider restrictive measures and social distancing an integral part of their lives as long as the pandemic continues, even if life goes back to normal.

Earlier this week, the parliament initially approved a new law giving the health minister or health authorities in general the power to make it obligatory for citizens to wear face masks and follow other preventive measures while outside their homes.

Violators will be fined between EGP 300 and EGP 5,000 under the legislation.