The UAE on Monday recorded 1,027 new COVID-19 cases and three virus-related deaths.
Officials from the Ministry of Health and Prevention said the total number of cases since the pandemic began had reached 202,863. The death toll is 660.
It was also announced that 1,253 people had recovered from the virus in the past 24 hours. The total number of recoveries is 179,925.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, vice president and prime minister of the UAE and ruler of Dubai, announced the emirate would extend tourist visas to all visitors for an additional month without any government fees, given that some countries temporarily closed their airports and restricted entry and exit.
. @HHShkMohd issues directives to extend tourist visas for one additional month, without any government fees, due to temporary airport closures and entry restrictions around the world. #UAE pic.twitter.com/VyBQ1vHel6
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) December 28, 2020
The decision “comes in order to make it easier for visitors from all over the world who came to Dubai to spend end-of-year holidays with their families,” state new agency WAM reported.
The statement added that all government agencies have been instructed to facilitate procedures during the coming period for visitors and tourists, to take into account all circumstances that may occur in their home countries and cooperate with all concerned authorities to ensure the comfort and safety of all visitors to the UAE.
Dubai Health Authority said that it has established three field hospitals with 49 doctors and nurses plus 10 administrative and supporting staff to offer medical care during the emirate’s new year celebrations.
.@DHA_Dubai establishes 3 field hospitals with 49 doctors and nurses & 10 admins and supporting staff to offer medical care to ensure health and safety of individuals attending #Dubai New Year’s celebrations. pic.twitter.com/wq1NUH4b6Y
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) December 28, 2020
Dubai Police also announced plans to enhance safety and security for the celebrations across 23 locations.
.@DubaiPoliceHQ announces plans to enhance safety and security for New Year’s Eve Festivities as #Dubai is set to mark the New Year with celebrations across 23 locations. pic.twitter.com/7Cc7OojQdv
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) December 28, 2020
Read the full report on Arab News website.
