The United Arab Emirates has taken decisive efforts to combat the coronavirus pandemic and the effective actions to limit the effects of the crisis in different fields. Various steps have been taken by the UAE government and Emirates Ministry of Foreign Affairs to stop the spread of COVID-19, which includes awareness-raising campaigns and travel restrictions. MOFAIC has demonstrated great efficiency in taking preventive measures to reduce the number of infected cases.
At the beginning of COVID-19 global spread, MOFAIC has coordinated with the UAE Embassy in China and organize the evacuation of Arab people from Wuhan. This action was a part of the proactive efforts to strengthen collaboration with China to limit the rapid coronavirus dissemination. Before the mission in Wuhan, the UAE government has ordered to set up a healthcare facility to ensure the required monitoring and care after their evacuation.
As a response to the World Health Organisation’s statement of coronavirus pandemic that represents a high risk associated with traveling, the UAE has taken several precautions. MOFAIC has stopped issuing any visas, except for diplomatic, as a temporary restriction since March 17. It has also decided to temporarily cancel all outbound and inbound flights with Iraq, Turkey, Lebanon, and Syria. Besides, the UAE has taken strict measures at its borders, including thermal scanners for detecting COVID-19 and well-prepared medical personnel available round-the-clock.
All the UAE’s proactive actions are a part of the precautionary measures to prevent the dissemination of deadly COVID-19. The UAE government and Ministry of Foreign Affairs have shown a high level of responsiveness and rapid decision-making. It has led to the rapid implementation of plans to combat the current crisis.