UAE records new high in COVID-19 cases

The United Arab Emirates recorded its highest ever daily toll of COVID-19 cases on Wednesday. The Gulf country is trying to move forward with tourism despite the recent jump in virus cases.

The UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention recorded 1,083 new coronavirus cases on Wednesday, bringing the current number of infections in the Emirates to 10,535.

The figure is the highest ever daily case tally in the country. On May 22, the UAE registered 994 cases. On Sept. 12, it registered 1,007, according to Worldometer.

Emirati authorities have yet to reimpose the strict lockdowns of the spring, but they are taking action to mitigate the recent spread. Last week, the UAE government approved the use of an emergency COVID-19 vaccine for at-risk workers after trials. People entering the capital Abu Dhabi must now wear a wristband to track their movements as they undergo a mandatory two-week quarantine.

The UAE is otherwise going ahead with its efforts to revitalize its economy, including the tourism and hospitality industries. The Emirates’ largest city Dubai remains open to tourists and Abu Dhabi just removed its liquor license requirement for people who want to drink alcohol. On Saturday, the mixed martial arts event “Fight Island” will resume in Abu Dhabi, albeit with no fans. Hotels in the country are also exploring adding kosher dining options in anticipation of religious Jewish tourists following the UAE-Israel normalization agreement.