With virus cases down, expats see a return to ‘old normal’

For three days in a row, the UAE’S daily tally of Covid cases did not go beyond 100. Thanks to the vision for recovery set by the country’s leaders, a robust vaccination campaign and the public’s commitment to safety rules, the Covid-19 situation has been under control.

The UAE reported 94 cases on Sunday, 84 on Saturday and 88 on Friday.

With the exception of international travel, life is largely back to the ‘old normal’ for most residents.

“We are so happy to be returning to the old normal now. Just the other day, my friends and I were discussing that probably in a month or two, it will be time for us to remove our masks completely. I hope the numbers continue to go down like this,” said Dr Ben Lebig Jr, a Filipino expat who has been living in Dubai for the past 16 years.

He added: “The UAE has done a stellar job in curbing the pandemic. I congratulate the government for leading the way and for this accomplishment.”

French expat Chloé Monet said she is proud to be a resident of a country that has handled the pandemic efficiently and effectively.

“From its world-class medical facilities to a mass testing drive and its distribution of vaccines, the UAE has set an extraordinary example on how to handle difficult situations,” Monet said.

Indian expat Arijit Nandi said: “With the numbers going down below 100 consecutively, the situation definitely looks optimistic. I am grateful to the UAE Government for all their efforts and for managing the crisis so well.”

Seeing how the cases have dropped drastically over the past few months, Egyptian expat Mina Kiwan now feels more comfortable going out.“taking off masks is something we are all looking forward to. However, we should keep it on in crowded areas as the safety of the community, especially the elderly, should remain a priority,” Kiwan said.

The UAE leaders have handled the situation so professionally. It is heartening to see the number of cases going down to less than a hundred.” Mina Kiwan, Egyptian expat

People are more comfortable and happier to go out. It looks promising that we are going to live Covid-free.” Adilatul Malaysian expat