The United Arab Emirates is now entering a “new stage” in the fight against COVID-19, according to HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE.
During the first meeting of the cabinet since 50 per cent of the government workforce returned to offices – all employees are set to return by June 14 – the Ruler of Dubai outlined how life was gradually returning to normal in this next phase of the pandemic.
“We have entered a new stage, the stage for gradual return to economic life,” Sheikh Mohammed said.
“Every person is responsible. All institutions and sectors are involved in protecting their staff. Health will remain a priority and a responsibility. Returning the wheel of the economy is strategic and necessary.”
I chaired a cabinet meeting today, on the first day of returning to work in government offices. We are approaching a new phase of gradual reopening of our economy where entities & sectors are responsible for safeguarding health of employees. Public health remains a top priority. pic.twitter.com/Tjd6IR7e6s
— HH Sheikh Mohammed (@HHShkMohd) May 31, 2020
His Highness also noted how the pandemic has made the nation “stronger, better and faster”. Meanwhile, for the future success of the UAE and looking forward beyond the pandemic, Sheikh Mohammed said “a new spirit, with different thinking and to work faster with greater flexibility” is needed.
Sheikh Mohammed’s statement about the next phase in the pandemic come after his directives were implemented for businesses to gradually start to reopen, bringing a resemblance of normality to Dubai.
HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council unveiled the plans last week, which included curfew hours being changed from 8pm to 6am, to 11pm to 6am.
However, despite the eagerness for life to return to normal, Sheikh Hamdan highlighted precautionary measures in place must still be adhered to in order for a smooth transition back to everyday life.
