The UAE is entering “a new phase” in its fight against the Covid-19 pandemic that will require members of the community to be responsible as the country re-opens its economy, according to Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
Following the first cabinet meeting since government employees returned to their offices, Sheikh Mohammed said that “we have entered a new stage, the stage for gradual return to economic life.”
“Every person is responsible. All institutions and sectors are involved in protecting their staff,” he added. “Health will remain a priority and a responsibility. Returning the wheel of the economy is strategic and necessary.”
In his remarks, Sheikh Mohammed said that “life continues” and that the experience of Covid-19 has made the UAE “stronger, better and faster”.
“The coming phase requires us to have a new spirit, with different thinking and to work faster and with greater flexibility,” he added.
New task forces
At the remote meeting, the UAE cabinet formed two task forces, one of which still study and determine any changes in the values, ethics and behaviour of the community. The other task force is aimed at simplifying and improving government services.
Additionally, a number of cultural programmes will be rolled out to promote positive behavior and safeguard mental health. A team will also be raised to establish a comprehensive volunteering system for citizens and residents.
A separate team was formed to bolster SMEs and develop technology that will help businesses, including remote meetings and e-signatures.
In May, Sheikh Mohammed also said that the structure of the UAE’s government may change as a result of the lessons learned during the pandemic.
“We may merge ministries … and change bodies,” he said. “Anyone who thinks that the world after Covid-19 will be the same as the one before it is mistaken.”
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