What's the government response timeline for United Arab Emirates?

Rebuilt from previous: Dubai will screen passengers arriving on direct flights from China, the emirate's airport operator said on Thursday https://www.khaleejtimes.com/uae/dubai/china-coronavirus-outbreak-dubai-to-screen-passengers

When did the UAE start contact tracing Covid-19 cases? Since the very first four cases of coronavirus were detected in the Emirates in late January. - exact date unknown therefore, coded as 1st February https://www.thenational.ae/uae/health/coronavirus-the-contact-tracing-method-explained-1.1004887

The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation issued a statement on Monday detailing a travel ban to Iran and Thailand following recent concerns on the new coronavirus, COVID-19, outbreaks in the aforementioned countries. https://www.ncema.gov.ae/en/media-center/news/24/2/2020/uae-issues-travel-bans-to-iran-thailand-following-covid-19-outbreak-concerns.aspx#page=1

Nurseries required to close https://gulfnews.com/uae/coronavirus-uae-nurseries-in-a-tight-spot-as-students-dont-pay-fees-1.70420359

Coronavirus: UAE federal employees to work fewer hours as nurseries close temporarily Working mothers may arrive two hours late or leave two hours before they finish normal working hours. Federal employees in the UAE have been granted flexible working hours as nurseries in the country closed temporarily in an effort to stay the spread of the coronavirus outbreak. The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources issued a circular granting mothers working in UAE ministries and federal entities who have children in nurseries, flexible working hours, reported news agency, Wam, on Sunday. https://www.thenational.ae/uae/government/coronavirus-uae-federal-employees-to-work-fewer-hours-as-nurseries-close-temporarily-1.986692

Previous travel ban still in place, https://www.ncema.gov.ae/en/media-center/news/24/2/2020/uae-issues-travel-bans-to-iran-thailand-following-covid-19-outbreak-concerns.aspx#page=1 but on 4th March United Arab Emirates (UAE) has told its residents, including British expats, not to travel anywhere abroad amid the ongoing Covid-19 outbreak. The nation’s Health and Community Protection Ministry delivered the warning on 5 March, reports AP. Officials said that anyone who travelled abroad could face quarantine themselves upon their return. https://www.independent.co.uk/travel/news-and-advice/coronavirus-uae-dubai-travel-ban-abu-dhabi-united-arab-emirates-a9376916.html The Ministry of Health and Prevention, MoHAP, has urged citizens and residents to avoid traveling abroad due to the spread of COVID-19 in multiple countries. A statement issued by MoHAP today said that those who travel may face preventative measures upon their return to the UAE - at the discretion of competent authorities - including undergoing medical checks at the airport, and a 14-day home quarantine. Those who test positive will be transferred to a designated health facility for treatment and quarantine to ensure their safety and to avoid contact with others, the statement added. https://www.ncema.gov.ae/en/media-center/news/5/3/2020/health-ministry-advises-public-not-to-travel-amid-global-coronavirus-outbreak.aspx

Previous ban still in place: https://www.ncema.gov.ae/en/media-center/news/24/2/2020/uae-issues-travel-bans-to-iran-thailand-following-covid-19-outbreak-concerns.aspx#page=1 But also new measures introduced on 4th March. United Arab Emirates (UAE) has told its residents, including British expats, not to travel anywhere abroad amid the ongoing Covid-19 outbreak. The nation’s Health and Community Protection Ministry delivered the warning on 5 March, reports AP. Officials said that anyone who travelled abroad could face quarantine themselves upon their return. https://www.independent.co.uk/travel/news-and-advice/coronavirus-uae-dubai-travel-ban-abu-dhabi-united-arab-emirates-a9376916.html The Ministry of Health and Prevention, MoHAP, has urged citizens and residents to avoid traveling abroad due to the spread of COVID-19 in multiple countries. A statement issued by MoHAP today said that those who travel may face preventative measures upon their return to the UAE - at the discretion of competent authorities - including undergoing medical checks at the airport, and a 14-day home quarantine. Those who test positive will be transferred to a designated health facility for treatment and quarantine to ensure their safety and to avoid contact with others, the statement added. https://www.ncema.gov.ae/en/media-center/news/5/3/2020/health-ministry-advises-public-not-to-travel-amid-global-coronavirus-outbreak.aspx

close schools for four weeks, hich started on March 8, as a precaution against the Covid-19 virus. Before classes resume on April 5, school premises will be thoroughly sterilised. The closure also applies to nurseries, which have been shut since March 1. https://gulfnews.com/uae/health/coronavirus-uae-schools-parents-adjust-to-month-long-closure-1.70151639

Initially, you had to have symptoms and a travel history to be tested ( https://gulfnews.com/uae/health/when-and-where-to-take-a-coronavirus-test-in-the-uae-1.70405120) and this is still stated as conditions on the Ministry of Health's website: https://www.mohap.gov.ae/en/AwarenessCenter/Pages/COVID-19.aspx. Drive through test centers have been opening, but they are not open to the general public and you have to complete a health assessment to go ( https://gulfnews.com/uae/health/coronavirus-3-new-drive-through-test-centres-to-open-in-dubai-1.70787395)

the UAE launches a website dedicated to awareness of the COVID-19 crisis http://archive.fo/9oRXW

Recommended that all senior citizens stay at home unless absolutely necessary http://archive.fo/wip/z1nI2

The UAE government will be activating remote work for a segment of federal government employees, effective March 15 to March 26, and subject to renewal. The decision comes as a precautionary measure to the novel coronavirus and to safeguard the wellbeing of the community. Employees will be able to utilize the government’s technological systems and platforms to ensure business continuity. Remote work is applicable for pregnant women, mothers of children in G-9 and below with duties that do not necessitate physical presence at workplace, people of determination, those with respiratory problems and weak immune system, and employees aged 60 and above. Federal employees are expected to coordinate with their respective human resources department to ensure uninterrupted workflow. https://www.ncema.gov.ae/en/media-center/news/13/3/2020/remote-work-activated-for-segment-of-federal-government-employees-effective-sunday-for-two-weeks.aspx#page=1

close schools for four weeks, hich started on March 8, as a precaution against the Covid-19 virus. Before classes resume on April 5, school premises will be thoroughly sterilised. The closure also applies to nurseries, which have been shut since March 1. https://gulfnews.com/uae/health/coronavirus-uae-schools-parents-adjust-to-month-long-closure-1.70151639. Addressing the video conference on the distance learning issue, Hussain bin Ibrahim Al Hammadi, Minister of Education, said most of the universities and schools are now applying the e-learning system after up to 1,196 training workshops have been organised on how to operate the system by launching pilots at a number of schools. ''Some 508 principals have been trained and now we have 620-e-learning enabled schools,'' he explained. On school bus safety measures, the minister noted that more than 4,950 drivers and 5,171 attendants and escorts have been trained on safety protocols to handle emergencies and apply precautionary measures. "We have also 667 highly trained nursing professionals to deal with any potential case in the school community,'' he concluded. https://www.ncema.gov.ae/en/media-center/news/16/3/2020/mohamed-bin-zayed-updated-on-coronavirus-containment-efforts.aspx#page=1. As part of the preventive and precautionary measures aimed at maintaining safety of students and in line with the efforts made to contain the spread of coronavirus, COVID-19, the Ministry of Education has announced a four-week closure of all public and private schools and higher education institutions across the UAE, starting Sunday. https://www.ncema.gov.ae/en/media-center/news/3/3/2020/education-ministry-announces-early-4-week-spring-vacation-starting-sunday.aspx#page=1

https://www.ncema.gov.ae/en/media-center/news/16/3/2020/uae-temporarily-suspends-prayers-in-all-places-of-worship-for-four-weeks.aspx#page=1 Monday, March 16, 2020 The National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority and the General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments have decided to temporarily suspend prayers in all places of worship across the nation, effective today at 9 p.m. local time on the 16th of March, for a period of four weeks out of concern for public safety. The decision, taken in coordination with federal and local health and religious authorities, including the UAE Fatwa Council and Ministry of Health and Prevention, comes within the framework of the precautionary measures adopted by the UAE to mitigate the spread of the coronavirus, COVID-19. The decision will be reviewed and re-assessed after four weeks, the two authorities said.

close schools for four weeks, hich started on March 8, as a precaution against the Covid-19 virus. Before classes resume on April 5, school premises will be thoroughly sterilised. The closure also applies to nurseries, which have been shut since March 1. https://gulfnews.com/uae/health/coronavirus-uae-schools-parents-adjust-to-month-long-closure-1.70151639

Updated: country’s civil aviation authority indefinitely suspended flights to and from Lebanon, Turkey, Syria and Iraq from March 17. This is not the full ban but a targeted ban for specific countries. https://uk.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-emirates-culture/uae-cancels-events-flights-as-central-bank-announces-coronavirus-fiscal-plan-idUKKBN2110GC

The Ministry of Health and Prevention and the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority have urged the public to temporarily delay all wedding receptions and social activities in all wedding venues, including halls in hotels and at home, effective Wednesday, the 18th of March, for a period of four weeks. https://www.ncema.gov.ae/en/media-center/news/16/3/2020/ministry-of-health-disaster-management-authority-call-for-temporary-delay-of-wedding-receptions-effective-wednesday.aspx#page=1. Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing has announced all events hosted by hospitality and entertainment destinations in Dubai to be suspended until the end of March to limit large public gatherings, from concerts and night clubs to wedding functions. https://en.vogue.me/news-3/uae-initiatives-curb-coronavirus-outbreak/. The National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority and the General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments have decided to temporarily suspend prayers in all places of worship across the nation, effective today at 9 p.m. local time on the 16th of March, for a period of four weeks out of concern for public safety. https://www.ncema.gov.ae/en/media-center/news/16/3/2020/uae-temporarily-suspends-prayers-in-all-places-of-worship-for-four-weeks.aspx#page=1

The Ministry of Health and Prevention and the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority have urged the public to temporarily delay all wedding receptions and social activities in all wedding venues, including halls in hotels and at home, effective Wednesday, the 18th of March, for a period of four weeks. https://www.ncema.gov.ae/en/media-center/news/16/3/2020/ministry-of-health-disaster-management-authority-call-for-temporary-delay-of-wedding-receptions-effective-wednesday.aspx#page=1. Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing has announced all events hosted by hospitality and entertainment destinations in Dubai to be suspended until the end of March to limit large public gatherings, from concerts and night clubs to wedding functions. https://en.vogue.me/news-3/uae-initiatives-curb-coronavirus-outbreak/

https://archive.vn/laaiv ABU DHABI, 23rd March, 2020 (WAM) -- The UAE has called upon the public to stay at home except in cases of necessity, including getting essential supplies, such as food and medicine, or performing jobs. In a joint statement today, the Ministry of Interior, MoI, and the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority, NCEMA, asked the public to comply with the instructions issued by competent health and security authorities, primarily limiting social contacts and avoiding crowded places to ensure their safety and wellbeing. "The public are also called upon to use their own family cars with a maximum of three individuals per car. They are also advised not to visit public places and maintain social distancing protocols during family gatherings as part of the precautionary measures," added the statement. The two authorities advised the general public not to visit hospitals except for critical and emergency cases. MoI and NCEMA also called on the UAE community to use face masks when out in public space. "Additional instructions will be issued later involving the use of public transport, taxis and other means of transportation," said the statement. The UAE law on communicable diseases, which includes fines and jail terms, will be enforced against all violators, added the statement.

https://archive.vn/laaiv ABU DHABI, 23rd March, 2020 (WAM) -- The UAE has called upon the public to stay at home except in cases of necessity, including getting essential supplies, such as food and medicine, or performing jobs. In a joint statement today, the Ministry of Interior, MoI, and the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority, NCEMA, asked the public to comply with the instructions issued by competent health and security authorities, primarily limiting social contacts and avoiding crowded places to ensure their safety and wellbeing. "The public are also called upon to use their own family cars with a maximum of three individuals per car. They are also advised not to visit public places and maintain social distancing protocols during family gatherings as part of the precautionary measures," added the statement. The two authorities advised the general public not to visit hospitals except for critical and emergency cases. MoI and NCEMA also called on the UAE community to use face masks when out in public space. "Additional instructions will be issued later involving the use of public transport, taxis and other means of transportation," said the statement. The UAE law on communicable diseases, which includes fines and jail terms, will be enforced against all violators, added the statement.

It seems as if comprehensive contact tracing methods have been in place since at least March 23, but likely before: https://www.khaleejtimes.com/coronavirus-outbreak/coronavirus-uae-confirms-45-new-cases

The UAE has decided to close all commercial centres, and shopping malls for a renewable period of two weeks. However, hypermarkets and pharmacies in the malls will remain open. https://gulfnews.com/uae/government/coronavirus-uae-shuts-malls-for-two-weeks-hypermarkets-to-remain-open-1.1584914600541. Dubai directed the private sector to implement remote working for most staff, but exempted a broad spectrum of businesses. https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/03/uae-imposes-curfew-deep-cleaning-coronavirus-cases-rise-200326192938826.html

Suspension of all flights except cargo and repatriation; entry of visa/ resident permit holders also stopped until April 16. Even with emirates resuming flights, it is only for outbound flights https://wam.ae/en/details/1395302832346; https://www.traveller.com.au/emirates-restarts-some-international-flights-after-coronavirus-grounding-h1n698; https://www.khaleejtimes.com/coronavirus-pandemic/covid-19-re-entry-suspension-for-uae-residents-extended-

Not a total closure, but limit on schedule during decontamination hours: Coronavirus disinfection: Dubai public transport schedule. Dubai’s RTA extends 8pm to 6am public transport suspension until April 5 https://gulfnews.com/uae/transport/coronavirus-disinfection-dubai-public-transport-schedule-1.70660238 https://gulfnews.com/uae/transport/coronavirus-dubais-rta-extends-8pm-to-6am-public-transport-suspension-until-april-5-1.70694418

curfews enforced as UAE undergoes a National decontamination effort https://archive.vn/B5TeN (this was extended until April 5th on March 28th)

Requirement of closing has been for specific sectors. Extension of National Disinfenction Programme requires moving all but essential work online; no more than 30% of personnel allowed to be in workplace: https://gulfbusiness.com/dubai-eases-movement-restrictions-allows-malls-and-offices-to-partially-reopen/; https://covid19.ncema.gov.ae/en/News/Details/104. Emphasis is on closure during disinfection hours (10 pm to 6 am), but a large number of sectors are exempt: https://gulfnews.com/uae/all-you-need-to-know-dubai-eases-covid-19-restrictions-from-april-24-1.1587666389347.

The National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority and the General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments have decided to temporarily suspend prayers in all places of worship across the nation, effective today at 9 p.m. local time on the 16th of March, for a period of four weeks out of concern for public safety. https://www.ncema.gov.ae/en/media-center/news/16/3/2020/uae-temporarily-suspends-prayers-in-all-places-of-worship-for-four-weeks.aspx#page=1

Coronavirus: Dubai launches #AskDXBdoctor campaign, how it works Service in English and Arabic will allow public to obtain credible information. https://gulfnews.com/uae/health/coronavirus-dubai-launches-askdxbdoctor-campaign-how-it-works-1.70621537 The best way to break the Covid-19 chain is to #StayHome. The UAE's Ministry of Health and Prevention on Saturday tweeted a video, reiterating this message. https://www.msn.com/en-ae/news/coronavirus/uae-ministry-lists-out-reasons-for-you-to-supernumberstayhome/ar-BB11Ph1B?li=BBqrVLO

Under directive from Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, banks have come together to offer relief to consumers. Among the relief offered: • Retail loan customers placed on unpaid leave can ask their bank for a repayment holiday of up to three months with zero interest and fees. • Customers with personal loans, car loans or mortgages can apply for a one-month repayment holiday with zero fees. ( https://www.thenational.ae/business/money/how-your-bank-will-help-if-you-are-affected-by-covid-19-1.997187)

Coronavirus: Dubai launches #AskDXBdoctor campaign, how it works Service in English and Arabic will allow public to obtain credible information. https://gulfnews.com/uae/health/coronavirus-dubai-launches-askdxbdoctor-campaign-how-it-works-1.70621537

Extension of school closures through to June (end of academic year) - Online learning to take into effect: https://whichschooladvisor.com/uae/school-news/covid19-distance-learning-continued-to-end-of-term-3

Coronavirus: Dubai launches #AskDXBdoctor campaign, how it works Service in English and Arabic will allow public to obtain credible information. https://gulfnews.com/uae/health/coronavirus-dubai-launches-askdxbdoctor-campaign-how-it-works-1.70621537

Coronavirus disinfection: Dubai public transport schedule. Dubai’s RTA extends 8pm to 6am public transport suspension until April 5 https://gulfnews.com/uae/transport/coronavirus-disinfection-dubai-public-transport-schedule-1.70660238. https://gulfnews.com/uae/transport/coronavirus-dubais-rta-extends-8pm-to-6am-public-transport-suspension-until-april-5-1.70694418.

In Dubai, public transit has been suspended from April 4 - April 18th https://gulfnews.com/uae/government/covid-19-disinfection-drive-extended-to-24-hours-in-dubai-1.1586019164814

The National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority and the General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments have decided to temporarily suspend prayers in all places of worship across the nation, effective today at 9 p.m. local time on the 16th of March, for a period of four weeks out of concern for public safety. https://www.ncema.gov.ae/en/media-center/news/16/3/2020/uae-temporarily-suspends-prayers-in-all-places-of-worship-for-four-weeks.aspx#page=1

In Dubai, public transit has been suspended from April 4 - April 18th https://gulfnews.com/uae/government/covid-19-disinfection-drive-extended-to-24-hours-in-dubai-1.1586019164814 In Abu Dhabi, public transit is closed from 8pm-6am but runs as normal during the day: https://www.timeoutabudhabi.com/news/438273-uae-national-disinfection-programme-extended-indefinitely

Initially, you had to have symptoms and a travel history to be tested ( https://gulfnews.com/uae/health/when-and-where-to-take-a-coronavirus-test-in-the-uae-1.70405120) and this is still stated as conditions on the Ministry of Health's website: https://www.mohap.gov.ae/en/AwarenessCenter/Pages/COVID-19.aspx. However, recently the UAE has been opening up a lot of drive through test centers and while priority is still given to certain segments, it seems the general public is now able to get tested by booking through an app or calling a hotline: https://www.thenational.ae/uae/health/coronavirus-how-to-get-tested-in-the-uae-and-how-much-does-it-cost-1.1006284

Coordinated public campaigns including contact tracing app, awareness campaigns, dedicated website through the national crisis and emergency management authority (ncema): https://www.ncema.gov.ae/en/media-center/awareness-messages/mers-cov.aspx

Public transport significantly reduced across uae with additional stringency in Dubai Metro Area: https://www.rta.ae/wps/portal/rta/ae/home/public-transport-and-services-updates

Even as some airlines are operating - it is just for outbound flights and repatriation of UAE national. Entry of visa holders remain suspended as is issuance. of new visas. https://www.wam.ae/en/details/1395302838699; https://www.nytimes.com/article/coronavirus-travel-restrictions.html

During Ramadan, a Nationwide curfew exists for the entire Emirates from 2200hrs to 0600hrs. http://archive.fo/wip/EokMf

https://www.mohap.gov.ae/en/MediaCenter/News/Pages/2385.aspx The Ministry of Health and Prevention, Abu Dhabi Health Authority and Dubai Health Authority have jointly launched an app named ALHOSN UAE for smart phones and devices. This new app, which can be downloaded on Android and IOS devices is free of cost, and will be an official digital platform for COVID-19 tests in the UAE. The app allows individuals to benefit from services developed in the country, including receiving COVID-19 test results on their phones. Every user will have a unique QR code, which will serve as a guide on his health status. The ALHOSN UAE app depends on the use of short-term Bluetooth signals, to show whether the person is in close proximity to people who have had contact with patients infected with the Covid-19 virus. This is possible if they also have the same app on their phones as the phones exchange the metadata stored in them. The app is also encrypted and the data remain only on the user's phone. Through this data, the competent health authorities can quickly identify people at risk of transmission to them so that they can communicate with them and retest them again. ALHOSN UAE application also provides a service that shows the extent to which people in home quarantine adhere to the instructions and avoid contact with other people. This is all aimed at protecting the people in quarantine as well as the rest of the society.

Some easing of restrictions of Dubai Metro but many other modes of public transport remain closed: https://www.rta.ae/wps/portal/rta/ae/home/public-transport-and-services-updates

Some easing of restrictions of Dubai and Abu Dhabi Metro but many other modes of public transport remain closed: https://www.rta.ae/wps/portal/rta/ae/home/public-transport-and-services-updates

Authorities allow people to travel between emirates for work and staycations https://www.thenational.ae/uae/transport/coronavirus-people-free-to-travel-between-emirates-for-work-and-staycations-say-police-1.1012711

The government urged companies to pay full salaries on time but has not implemented any policy https://www.khaleejtimes.com/coronavirus-pandemic/coronavirus-uae-tells-companies-to-pay-salaries-wages-to-employees-on-time

UAE citizens can return to the country, residents are subject to a case by case permit issuance. https://gulfnews.com/travel/covid-19-emirates-announces-limited-inbound-flight-operation-for-stranded-uae-residents-1.71452889

https://covid19.ncema.gov.ae/en/News/Details/1238 May 06, 2020 The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHaP) and the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) in a joint announcement today stated that people over the age of 60 and children younger than 12 are prohibited from entering shopping malls, cooperative societies, and supermarkets. These precautions are in order to ensure their health and safety. They are also prohibited from entering retail stores located outside shopping centres.

https://www.ncema.gov.ae/en/media-center/news/13/5/2020/supreme-committee-of-crisis-and-disaster-management-approves-minor-updates-to-protocols-followed-in-the-easing-of-restrictions-in-dubai.aspx#page=1 Wednesday, May 13, 2020 As part of the review of precautionary measures to combat COVID-19 and ensure the highest possible safety and wellbeing for the community in Dubai, the Supreme Committee of Crisis and Disaster Management has approved minor updates to protocols followed in the partial easing of restrictions on movement in the emirate, effective Tuesday 12 May, 2020. While maintaining all previous preventive measures in shopping malls and retail outlets, the updates allow the refund and return of goods and use of fitting rooms with the condition that strict precautionary conditions aimed at ensuring the safety of customers be observed. The updates also allow the opening of public parks with strict enforcement of specific preventive measures. These include ensuring gatherings do not exceed five people. Hotels are allowed to reopen their private beaches only to their guests while enforcing stringent preventive measures, the most important of which is mandatory physical distancing between individuals. In addition, sports and recreational activities will be permitted in open spaces for up to five people, including cycling, water sports and skydiving. Comprehensive preventive measures have to be maintained while engaging in these sporting activities.

The Department of Economic Affairs in Abu Dhabi released a list of preventive measures as some sectors begin going back to work. https://twitter.com/admediaoffice/status/1260994605002248198

Private beaches open in Dubai, although with restrictions on social distancing and group size https://gulfnews.com/uae/hotel-beaches-open-in-dubai-covid-19-protection-rules-you-have-to-follow-1.1589440942974

UAE announced it would shorten the night time curfew bye two hours. https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-emirates/uae-to-shorten-covid-19-prevention-curfew-by-two-hours-idUSKBN23524U

Schools closed until next academic year, as per note on 3rd April. Extension of school closures through to June (end of academic year) - Online learning to take into effect: https://whichschooladvisor.com/uae/school-news/covid19-distance-learning-continued-to-end-of-term-3

https://www.ncema.gov.ae/en/media-center/news/18/5/2020/uae-welcomes-return-of-foreign-nationals-holding-valid-residence-visa-from-june-1st.aspx#page=1 Monday, May 18, 2020 The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MoFAIC) and the Federal Authority For Identity and Citizenship (ICA) Monday said foreign nationals holding valid residence visa can return to the UAE starting June 1st. MoFAIC and ICA in a joint statement today said the decision stems from the UAE's keenness to enable those holding valid residence visas to get reunited with their families after having been affected by the precautionary measures taken under the current exceptional circumstances to contain the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. "The move is aimed at streamlining their safe return to the UAE," added the statement. In the meantime, ICA called on those holding valid residence visas and wishing to return to the UAE to register in the service entitled " Residents' Entry Permit", via its website: smartservices.ica.gov.ae.

Schools closed until next academic year, as per note on 3rd April. Extension of school closures through to June (end of academic year) - Online learning to take into effect: https://whichschooladvisor.com/uae/school-news/covid19-distance-learning-continued-to-end-of-term-3

https://www.ncema.gov.ae/en/media-center/news/18/5/2020/uae-welcomes-return-of-foreign-nationals-holding-valid-residence-visa-from-june-1st.aspx#page=1 Monday, May 18, 2020 The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MoFAIC) and the Federal Authority For Identity and Citizenship (ICA) Monday said foreign nationals holding valid residence visa can return to the UAE starting June 1st. MoFAIC and ICA in a joint statement today said the decision stems from the UAE's keenness to enable those holding valid residence visas to get reunited with their families after having been affected by the precautionary measures taken under the current exceptional circumstances to contain the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. "The move is aimed at streamlining their safe return to the UAE," added the statement.

The Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE) has reduced its policy interest rate twice by a combined 125 basis points so far this year. Furthermore, CBUAE has announced an AED256 billion ($70 billion or 20% of GDP) package of measures comprising: i) halving of banks’ required reserve requirements from 14% to 7%; ii) zero-interest rate collateralized loans to banks (AED 50 billion); iii) allowing the use of banks’ excess capital buffers (AED 50 billion); iv) 15-25 percent reduction in provisioning for SME loans; v) increase of loan-to-value ratio for first-time home buyers by 5 percentage points; vi) limiting bank fees for SMEs; vii) waiver of all payment service fees charged by CBUAE for six months; viii) raising the limit on banks' exposure to the real estate sector from to 30% of risk-weighted assets, subject to adequate provisioning; ix) allowing banks to defer loan repayments till end-2020. https://www.imf.org/en/Topics/imf-and-covid19/Policy-Responses-to-COVID-19

Coordinated public campaigns including contact tracing app, awareness campaigns, dedicated website through the national crisis and emergency management authority (ncema): https://www.ncema.gov.ae/en/media-center/awareness-messages/mers-cov.aspx

https://www.mohap.gov.ae/en/MediaCenter/News/Pages/2422.aspx https://www.mohap.gov.ae/en/MediaCenter/News/Pages/2422.aspx https://www.mohap.gov.ae/en/MediaCenter/News/Pages/2385.aspx The Ministry of Health and Prevention, Abu Dhabi Health Authority and Dubai Health Authority have jointly launched an app named ALHOSN UAE for smart phones and devices. This new app, which can be downloaded on Android and IOS devices is free of cost, and will be an official digital platform for COVID-19 tests in the UAE. The app allows individuals to benefit from services developed in the country, including receiving COVID-19 test results on their phones. Every user will have a unique QR code, which will serve as a guide on his health status. The ALHOSN UAE app depends on the use of short-term Bluetooth signals, to show whether the person is in close proximity to people who have had contact with patients infected with the Covid-19 virus. This is possible if they also have the same app on their phones as the phones exchange the metadata stored in them. The app is also encrypted and the data remain only on the user's phone. Through this data, the competent health authorities can quickly identify people at risk of transmission to them so that they can communicate with them and retest them again. ALHOSN UAE application also provides a service that shows the extent to which people in home quarantine adhere to the instructions and avoid contact with other people. This is all aimed at protecting the people in quarantine as well as the rest of the society.

https://www.khaleejtimes.com/coronavirus-pandemic/sharjah-extends-suspension-of-events-public-gatherings-to-curb-coronavirus-spread- Sharjah and other emirates extend the suspension of public events and gatherings until the end of July

https://www.businesstraveller.com/business-travel/2020/06/29/uae-no-flights-allowed-from-pakistan-until-a-covid-19-lab-is-built/ UAE bans flights from Pakistan

ABU DHABI, 2nd July, 2020 (WAM) -- Abu Dhabi will re-open some parks and public beaches from tomorrow, Friday, at a 40 percent capacity, with all generic precautionary and preventive measures and protocols to be strictly enforced to ensure public safety. The Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT), in coordination with the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority (NCEMA), said this first phase of re-opening will cover the Umm Al Emarat Park, Khalifa Park-Abu Dhabi, Salimi Park in Al Ain, and Madinat Zayed Public Park in Al Dhafrah. Included in the first phase as well are the Corniche Public Beach, Al Hudayriat Beach and Al Al Mirfa Beach in Al Dhafrah. http://archive.fo/Uubj8

ABU DHABI, 2nd July, 2020 (WAM) -- Abu Dhabi will re-open some parks and public beaches from tomorrow, Friday, at a 40 percent capacity, with all generic precautionary and preventive measures and protocols to be strictly enforced to ensure public safety. The Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT), in coordination with the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority (NCEMA), said this first phase of re-opening will cover the Umm Al Emarat Park, Khalifa Park-Abu Dhabi, Salimi Park in Al Ain, and Madinat Zayed Public Park in Al Dhafrah. Included in the first phase as well are the Corniche Public Beach, Al Hudayriat Beach and Al Al Mirfa Beach in Al Dhafrah. http://archive.fo/Uubj8

It is not advised for people over the age of 70 or for those with chronic diseases to travel due to the increased risks associated. http://archive.fo/npJ2i

The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHaP) and the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA), have raised the capacity of shoppers and diners allowed in commercial centers and restaurants to 60 percent while taking into consideration all relevant preventive and precautionary measures. No more than four people are allowed at each table, with dining tables to be distanced 2 metres apart, according to a joint statement by NCEMA and MoHaP today. According to the statement, waiting areas should remain closed and outlets must only serve food and drink using disposable cutlery, and hand sanitiser dispensers must be available. Wearing masks, and gloves is a must while changing them regularly in addition to maintaining safety distance norms and ensuring all working staff are free of COVID-19. The MoHaP and NCEMA added that they have already allowed children below 12 years in age and people who are not over 70 years old into all commercial centres and restaurants nationwide, reiterating the necessity of taking all COVID-19 countermeasures into consideration to ensure public safety. The two authorities have called upon the public, including malls shoppers and visitors to comply with all restrictions, including wearing masks for children aged four years old and above whenever they are inside malls in addition to taking their temperature upon entry. The statement added that setting malls' capacity as well as other precautionary and preventive measures, is subject to evaluation by relevant authorities in each emirate as per the readiness and circumstances of each establishment.

It is not advised for people over the age of 70 or for those with chronic diseases to travel due to the increased risks associated. http://archive.fo/npJ2i

ABU DHABI, 3rd July 2020 (WAM) - The United Arab Emirates, represented by the National Emergency, Crisis and Disasters Management Authority, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, has today announced that all citizens and residents in the UAE are now able travel in accordance with the health preventive and precautionary requirements enforced within the UAE’s airports and the destinations’ regulations. The UAE’s national carriers, as well as international carriers, will operate their flights according to a classification system, based on several health and safety standards. The UAE’s travel protocol will apply in accordance with the destination and will be dependent on factors such as public health, health checks upon arrival at the destination and when returning back to the UAE, quarantine and self-monitoring of the health of the traveller. In addition to this precautionary guidelines and procedures will apply. http://archive.fo/npJ2i

FISCAL The authorities have so far announced about AED 26.5 billion ($ 7.2 billion or 2 percent of GDP) in various fiscal measures. These include: (i.) AED 16 ($4.4 billion) approved by the federal government to support the private sector by reducing various government fees and accelerating existing infrastructure projects; (ii.) AED 1.5 billion ($0.4 billion) in measures by the government of Dubai to reduce government fees, provide additional water and electricity subsidies, and simplify business procedures; and (iii.) AED 9 billion ($2.5 billion) announced by the government of Abu Dhabi as part of the ongoing “Ghadan-21” fiscal stimulus program. The new initiatives provide for water and electricity subsidies as well as credit guarantees and liquidity support to small- and medium-sized enterprises. In addition, the government of Abu Dhabi has announced a reduction or suspension of various government fees and penalties, as well as a rebate on commercial lease payments in the tourism and hospitality sectors. On July 11 Dubai has announced a new package worth AED 1.5 billion ($0.4 billion) to help the economy cope with the effects of the coronavirus pandemic which includes cancelling certain fines imposed by the government and the customs department and tax reimbursements to hotels and restaurants. http://archive.fo/cb9GB

MONETARY AND MACRO-FINANCIAL The Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE) has reduced its policy interest rate twice by a combined 125 basis points so far this year. Furthermore, CBUAE has announced an AED256 billion ($70 billion or 20% of GDP) package of measures comprising: i) halving of banks’ required reserve requirements from 14% to 7%; ii) zero-interest rate collateralized loans to banks (AED 50 billion); iii) allowing the use of banks’ excess capital buffers (AED 50 billion); iv) 15-25 percent reduction in provisioning for SME loans; v) increase of loan-to-value ratio for first-time home buyers by 5 percentage points; vi) limiting bank fees for SMEs; vii) waiver of all payment service fees charged by CBUAE for six months; viii) raising the limit on banks' exposure to the real estate sector from to 30% of risk-weighted assets, subject to adequate provisioning; ix) allowing banks to defer loan repayments till end-2020. http://archive.fo/cb9GB

Coordinated public campaigns including contact tracing app, awareness campaigns, dedicated website through the national crisis and emergency management authority (ncema): https://www.ncema.gov.ae/en/media-center/awareness-messages/mers-cov.aspx http://archive.fo/kFqV0

https://www.mohap.gov.ae/en/MediaCenter/News/Pages/2422.aspx https://www.mohap.gov.ae/en/MediaCenter/News/Pages/2422.aspx https://www.mohap.gov.ae/en/MediaCenter/News/Pages/2385.aspx The Ministry of Health and Prevention, Abu Dhabi Health Authority and Dubai Health Authority have jointly launched an app named ALHOSN UAE for smart phones and devices. This new app, which can be downloaded on Android and IOS devices is free of cost, and will be an official digital platform for COVID-19 tests in the UAE. The app allows individuals to benefit from services developed in the country, including receiving COVID-19 test results on their phones. Every user will have a unique QR code, which will serve as a guide on his health status. The ALHOSN UAE app depends on the use of short-term Bluetooth signals, to show whether the person is in close proximity to people who have had contact with patients infected with the Covid-19 virus. This is possible if they also have the same app on their phones as the phones exchange the metadata stored in them. The app is also encrypted and the data remain only on the user's phone. Through this data, the competent health authorities can quickly identify people at risk of transmission to them so that they can communicate with them and retest them again. ALHOSN UAE application also provides a service that shows the extent to which people in home quarantine adhere to the instructions and avoid contact with other people. This is all aimed at protecting the people in quarantine as well as the rest of the society.

All federal government staff to return to offices from July 5: UAE Government http://archive.fo/oCEjI

Abu Dhabi restaurants are to be allowed to operate at 80 per cent capacity, officials confirmed on Wednesday. https://www.thenational.ae/uae/government/coronavirus-abu-dhabi-restaurants-and-cafes-to-operate-at-80-per-cent-capacity-1.1056108

Mosques are allowed to open at 50% capacity, and worshippers should distance (2 meters). There is no stated upper limit on crowd size. See Emirates News Agency website, archived: https://wam.ae/en/details/1395302857282

The UAE has removed the entry permit requirement for residents who were stuck abroad due to the coronavirus pandemic, as part of the country’s push to allow their safe return. Under the new policy, returning residents will automatically be granted pre-approval but will be required to submit a negative COVID-19 PCR test result from a screening done not more than 96 hours before arriving in the UAE. https://www.arabnews.com/node/1718351/middle-east

The capacity of mosques will increase to 50%, and worshippers will be required to distance (2 meters). See Emirates News Agency website, archived: https://wam.ae/en/details/1395302857282