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Dubai has approved the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine to be administered in the emirate.
It was announced via the Dubai Media Office Twitter account that the Dubai Supreme Committee of Crisis and Disaster Management will launch an “extensive vaccination campaign against COVID-19” on Wednesday, December 23.

The Pfizer vaccine, which has been revealed to be 95 per cent effective in studies, will be free of charge.

#Dubai’s Supreme Committee of Crisis and Disaster Management: Extensive vaccination campaign against Covid-19 kicks off in Dubai on Wednesday. Vaccination will use Pfizer-BioNTech’s vaccine and is free of charge.
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) December 22, 2020

Neighbouring nation Saudi Arabia has also already approved the vaccine as well as, the UK, Canada and USA.
The first batch of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine arrived in Dubai from Brussels on Tuesday night, per a post from the Dubai Media Office. It was shipped on an Emirates SkyCargo flight.

#Dubai receives first batch of Pfizer-BioNTech’s COVID-19 vaccines transported from Brussles to Dubai on @Emirates SkyCargo flight. The shipment was offloaded and cleared on priority basis on arrival at Emirates’ dedicated SkyPharma facility. pic.twitter.com/JDhoUzvfgA
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) December 22, 2020

This approval of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine comes after a trial began in the UAE over the summer testing the Sinopharm vaccine.
After three months after the COVID-19 vaccine began to be administered in the UAE a couple of months ago, and it’s now been determined that it is 86 per cent effective following the trials.
The Sinopharm vaccine has been officially registered in the UAE, with health authorities saying that the “analysis [from the trial of 31,000 people] shows no serious safety concerns”.
High-up government officials including His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and the Ruler of Dubai, Her Excellency Noura bint Mohammed Al Kaab, the Minister of Culture and Youth and more have already received the vaccine.
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While Abu Dhabi reopened its borders to tourists back at the end of September, a strict 14-day quarantine has been in place for all visitors, residents and citizens alike.
However, the rules for entering the UAE capital have now been eased, alongside COVID-19 testing requirements being updated.
International tourists entering Abu Dhabi

The Abu Dhabi Crisis, Emergencies and Disasters Committee announced that given the success of the precautionary measures taken the emirate has been “maintaining a low rate of confirmed cases [and thus] Abu Dhabi will welcome back international tourists from 24 December 2020”.
As part of the new guidelines, it’s been confirmed by the committee that all travellers must receive a COVID-19 PCR test negative result within 96 hours of their scheduled departure. After touching down in Abu Dhabi, a second PCR test is required upon entering the emirate.

Following the successes achieved by implementing the precautionary measures to curb the spread of Covid-19 and maintaining a low rate of confirmed cases, Abu Dhabi will welcome back international tourists from 24 December 2020. pic.twitter.com/Oq7X9qH8BF
— مكتب أبوظبي الإعلامي (@admediaoffice) December 22, 2020

The committee has also identified some “green” countries, whereby visitors from those countries will be allowed into Abu Dhabi when they receive a negative result. However, for those not on the green list, a period of self-isolation for 10 days is currently in place.
Furthermore, it’s been outlined that all tourists and travellers are required to take a PCR test “on day six of entry into Abu Dhabi for those staying for six consecutive days or more, and on day 12 for those staying for 12 consecutive days or more”.
The countries on the “green” list – which will be updated every 14 days – can be found here.
Entering Abu Dhabi by road
Similarly, there have also been changes for entering Abu Dhabi via the road border.
As of tomorrow, December 24, those who are entering Abu Dhabi are permitted to enter with having a valid negative COVID-19 PCR or DPI test within 72 hours. The rules previously stated that it needed to be within 48 hours.

Abu Dhabi Emergency, Crisis and Disasters Committee has approved procedures for all UAE citizens and residents entering the emirate, including returning residents, from 24 December 2020. pic.twitter.com/9vyu22446S
— مكتب أبوظبي الإعلامي (@admediaoffice) December 22, 2020

It should be noted the 10-day quarantine time still applies if you’re crossing the road border and have just arrived from a country, not on the green list.
Meanwhile, as has been the case since vaccine trials began in the UAE, those who took part in phase III are exempt from being tested.

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While the UAE has grappled with the difficulties of the global pandemic throughout 2020, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai, has continued shared a message of hope and positivity.
His Highness has continually expressed his appreciation for the frontline workers and UAE residents for complying with instructions from higher authorities to curb the spread.

As we reach the end of this year, EW has curated a list of inspirational messages from the Dubai royal, who has motivated UAE citizens and residents messages of hope.
Stay home, save lives
Following the official directives of the UAE government back in March for all residents, citizens, visitors and anyone living in the country to stay home in order to contain the spread of coronavirus, HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, issued a powerful message to members of the public.

Remember that we are only as strong as our weakest link. We’re here for you, and trust that we can count on your commitment to act responsibly.#STAYHOME
— Hamdan bin Mohammed (@HamdanMohammed) March 23, 2020

“Everyday, we see the global situation around COVID-19 worsening at an exponential pace,” he began. “However, thanks to the tireless and incredible efforts of our emergency response team, we have managed to protect ourselves and our communities till date.‬”
“Remember that we are only as strong as our weakest link,” he added. “We’re here for you, and trust that we can count on your commitment to act responsibly.”

Overcoming the pandemic

لا يوجد في قاموس الإمارات عقبات وتحديات.. هناك دائما أمل وفرص.. نتعامل مع الموقف الراهن بكل ثقة في قدرتنا على تجاوز تبعاته بتضافر الجهود وتعاون الجميع لنتخطى هذه المرحلة ولنستأنف مسيرة النجاح نحو تحقيق كل الطموحات المأمولة لمستقبل وطننا…والقادم دائماً أفضل وأسعد.
— Hamdan bin Mohammed (@HamdanMohammed) April 16, 2020

Sheikh Hamdan continued to spread a message of hope as the UAE was placed on lockdown during the month of April.
“There are no obstacles and challenges in the Emirates Dictionary,” he said. “There is always hope and opportunities. We deal with the current situation with confidence in our ability to overcome its consequences through concentrated efforts and cooperation of everyone to move beyond this stage and resume the march of success. Tomorrow is always better and happier”.
Heartfelt open letter to frontline workers
Amidst the height of the pandemic in June, Sheikh Hamdan published an open letter thanking frontline workers for rising to the challenge to protect the nation.

Thank you pic.twitter.com/kohHDn9NvP
— Hamdan bin Mohammed (@HamdanMohammed) June 10, 2020

His Highness’ full message:
“My dear brothers and sisters, the brave heroes at the frontline… In our desperate times, you rose to the challenge. Armed with your selflessness, you’ve redefined the meaning of service and sacrifice. Your courage has built an invincible fortress, protecting our society.
“You are today’s finest soldiers, the barrier between us and the pandemic. We cannot thank you enough for your spirit that protects our nation.
“Thank you for putting our safety before yours. You have set an example for the heroes to come. Your sacrifice is inspiring, humbling, and a legacy that our history will remember forever.
“With God’s grace, we will get through these times. And, together, we will emerge stronger and more determined to continue our journey of shaping the future.”
The UAE Mars mission

HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid: We will go to Mars because space programmes are a gateway to science and it is a portal for building scientists#HopeProbe#HopeMarsMission pic.twitter.com/jX8Dwq9rh5
— UAE Forsan (@UAE_Forsan) July 15, 2020

This year the UAE marked the launch of its mission to Mars. His Highness shared an inspirational message as the Hope Probe launched on an H2-A rocket from Tanegashima spaceport in Japan.
“There’s no future without science and no future without knowledge,” he said. “We are going to Mars because we want to solidify a principle for our youth that the impossible is possible for the UAE and the people of the UAE.”
The solidarity of Dubai
In a statement made in July, the Crown Prince of Dubai said he was in awe of the “remarkable cohesiveness” that emerged in Dubai.

.@HamdanMohammed: #Dubai community, including both citizens and residents, have played an invaluable role in fighting the COVID-19 outbreak. The keenness of the community to contribute in times of crisis has always been an integral part of Dubai’s social ethos.
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) July 14, 2020

“The solidarity displayed by various social stakeholders in Dubai in the face of the COVID-19 crisis will be remembered by generations to come,” he said. “The remarkable cohesiveness demonstrated by the community and their commitment to meet their social responsibilities is something the world will recognise as an example of how a progressive society should respond to a crisis like this.”
Applauds first female cadets at the Dubai Police Academy

The first wave of female cadets graduated from the Dubai Police Academy back in August and Sheikh Hamdan personally congratulated and thanked the 29 graduates who chose to dedicate themselves to serving the country.
“We are proud to witness the graduation of the first batch of female cadets who have taken on the task of serving and protecting the nation and ensuring the safety and security of its people,” he said.
The cadets went through four years of training and have all graduated with distinctions across the board. Sheikh Hamdan said that they were a testament to the UAE’s leadership model, which has “enabled Emirati women to prove their merit and make a mark, not only locally and regionally, but also globally”.
Remembering Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum

In remembrance of the 30th anniversary of the passing of one of the greatest leaders, Sheikh Rashed bin Saeed Al Maktoum. A leader that created an inspiring vision for Dubai and its people. His achievements and efforts lives on in our hearts and therefore shall never be forgotten pic.twitter.com/fvWdvRSFEL
— Hamdan bin Mohammed (@HamdanMohammed) October 6, 2020

Marking the 30th anniversary of the death of His Highness Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the former Ruler of Dubai, and the father of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the current Ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Hamdan shared a tribute about the late leader. 
“A leader that created an inspiring vision for Dubai and its people,” he said. “His achievements and efforts lives on in our hearts and therefore shall never be forgotten.”
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If you’re set to travel during the festive period from the UK to Abu Dhabi, guidelines have been updated by Etihad.

It’s been stated on the Abu Dhabi-based airline’s website: “Make sure you have a COVID-19 PCR test before you fly.” And, yes, that test must be negative.
PCR tests must be done at government-accredited medical facilities, with the negative test being shown prior to departing the UK.
With the maximum time to have a COVID test prior to departure being 72 hours if you’re travelling from the UK, you need to also ensure the timing of your test is clearly stated as some do not contain this information.
Whether Abu Dhabi is your final destination in the UAE – where you will need to quarantine for 14 days upon arrival – or you are travelling onwards to Dubai or another emirate, a negative test is required.
At present, if you’re flying into Dubai with Emirates from the UK you don’t need a negative test prior to travel, you can receive a test upon arrival.
However, as always, ensure you are up-to-date with your air carrier’s guidelines prior to your departure.

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On Monday, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai enjoyed a socially distanced meeting with His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces.
The UAE leaders met in the the Al Marmoom area of Dubai and discussed the wellbeing of Emirati citizens, how the nation has faced the global health challenges during 2020 head on and more.

According to UAE state news agency WAM, the topics that were discussed were wide-ranged and incldued “combatting the coronavirus pandemic and containing its negative repercussions, as well as the achievements accomplished to provide vaccines to Emiratis and residents”.
The Ruler of Dubai and the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi also commeneded the hard work from those on the frontlines throughout the pandemic who have proteced the community and the health and safety of the UAE public during 2020.

During my meeting with my brother Mohammed bin Rashid in Dubai, we discussed several issues, including the wellbeing of our citizens-the most important of all. We also discussed the UAE’s efforts to deal with global health challenges and support economic and social prosperity. pic.twitter.com/NLtcRqFFdd
— محمد بن زايد (@MohamedBinZayed) December 21, 2020

Further elaborating on their meeting, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed took to Twitter to share a series of photos with the Ruler of Dubai.
“During my meeting with my brother Mohammed bin Rashid in Dubai, we discussed several issues, including the wellbeing of our citizens-the most important of all,” he said. “We also discussed the UAE’s efforts to deal with global health challenges and support economic and social prosperity.”
Meanwhile Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid also added that the UAE is “united by thinking of a better tomorrow”.

زارني أخي محمد بن زايد اليوم في المرموم .. زيارة أخ وقائد وصديق .. يجمعنا الوطن .. ويجمعنا التفكير بغد أفضل .. وتجمعنا رغبة أن يكون ٢٠٢١ العام الأعظم في مسيرة الإمارات العربية المتحدة.. pic.twitter.com/leSS2fjLV8
— HH Sheikh Mohammed (@HHShkMohd) December 21, 2020

“My brother Mohamed bin Zayed visited me today in Al Marmoum … the visit of a brother, a leader and a friend … the country brings us together,” he said on Twitter. “We are united by thinking of a better tomorrow … and we are united by the desire for 2021 to be the greatest year in the United Arab Emirates’ [history].”
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It’s rare to say an event is once in a lifetime, but something is occurring today – December 21, 2020 – that hasn’t happened in 800 years.

As today marks the first day of winter, this year is also marking a rare ‘Christmas Star’ being visit for the first time in eight centuries where two of the biggest planets in the solar system, Jupiter and Saturn will perfect align.
According to NASA, the two planets do align closely once every 20 years, but haven’t aligned this closely in 400 years and it hasn’t been visible at night in double that amount of time.
This close alignment of the planets also has a big effect in the world of astrology.
With these two planets lining up almost exactly, this will cause the energies of Saturn and Jupiter overlap and cause seismic shifts, which is known as ‘The Great Conjunction’. Such a powerful shift in cosmic energy, for those who are immersed in the world of astrology, means it’s time to make some affirmations that you have for your life. And after the difficult year 2020 has been we could all use a little positivity to focus on as the year draws to a close.
If you’re in the UAE and hoping to see the bright point, the ‘Christmas Star’ is set to appear at some point in the early evening.
Make sure you take the opportunity to try and spot this once-in-a-lifetime star.
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Dubai-based airline Emirates has announced it has suspended all flights to Saudi Arabia.
It was reported by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) on Sunday evening that the Kingdom had made decision to suspend all international flights for one week after a new strain of COVID-19 has been reported to have broken out in the United Kingdom.

There’s also the possibility this grounding of flights may be extended for another week.
Following this announcement, Emirates confirmed it would be grounding all flights to the Kingdom until further notice.

“Due to the closure of borders as directed by the Saudi authorities, Emirates will be suspending flights to and from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia until further notice,” a statement on the Emirates website states.
“We regret any inconvenience caused, affected customers should contact their travel agent or Emirates contact centre for rebooking options.”
Similarly, Abu Dhabi-based airline Etihad would be suspending its Saudi flights.
“With immediate effect, Etihad Airways will temporarily suspend its passenger services between Abu Dhabi and all destinations in Saudi Arabia until further notice, based on the directives of the Saudi authorities to limit the spread of COVID-19,” an Etihad spokesperson said.
“The safety of its customers and crew is Etihad’s highest priority and we regret any inconvenience the suspension may cause.”
This comes after the UK government confiremd it had identified a new strain of COVID-19 which is fast-spreading. The UK has now implemented further lockdowns across the country, with many familieis being left unable to see each other for Christmas.
Many European countries have suspended inbound and outbound flights from the UK following the confirmation of the new strain.
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