U.A.E. Eases Work Visa Rules, Halts Public Transport for 2 Days

(Bloomberg) -- The United Arab Emirates, where expatriates make up about 85% of the population, eased rules for renewing worker visas and will shut public transportation for two days as it steps up its fight against the spread of the coronavirus.

Laborers employed by companies and domestic helpers will be exempt from the mandatory medical tests for visas, state-run Emirates News Agency reported. Their work permits and residence visas will be renewed automatically after the payment of fees.

The Gulf nation has reported 333 virus cases, including two fatalities. It has already halted flights, shut malls and rolled out a $34 billion stimulus package in an effort to counter the effects.

U.A.E. Disinfection Program:

• Sterilization of public utilities, public transport and metro services will begin at 8pm Thursday and end at 6am Sunday.
• Movement of traffic and public will be restricted during the period, while public transportation and metro services will be halted.
• Pharmacies and food retail outlets, including cooperative societies, grocery stores and supermarkets, will be allowed to operate 24 hours.
• A press briefing will be held at 12pm Thursday to elaborate on the measures.
• Link to WAM statement

Other Developments:

• Qatar Airways Clings to Passenger Schedule as Rivals Idle Fleets
• Saudi Tadawul Reduces Trading Hours to 10am-1pm Riyadh Time
• Expo2020 to Discuss Dubai Event Next Week as Virus Spreads
• Iran Now Welcomes Medical Charity MSF’s Help Fighting Virus
• First Palestinian Coronavirus Death Reported in West Bank
• WHO Issues a Rare Public Scolding, Saying Countries Wasting Time
• Refugee Camps Housing Millions Brace for Virus Running Wild

Across the World:

• U.S. Deaths Top 1,000; Senate Approves Stimulus: Virus Update
• Mapping the Coronavirus Outbreak Across the World

©2020 Bloomberg L.P.