His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown prince of Dubai, took to social media last night to give residents of the UAE a powerful message; stay at home.
He urged the public to understand ‘the seriousness of the new reality’ and that the coronavirus is a ‘real threat to each one of us’.
The UAE has put in place several preventative measures across the country to safeguard its citizens and residents, including shutting down malls and halting flights to and from the country for a two week period.
You can read the full statement below:
‘Everyday, we see the global situation around COVID-19 worsening at an exponential pace. However, thanks to the tireless and incredible efforts of our emergency response team, we have managed to protect ourselves and our communities till date. Going forth, maintaining this status needs us all to urgently recognise the seriousness of the new reality we live in. We (Dubai) are not immune.
This pandemic is a very real threat to each and every one of us, our families and friends. The only way to guarantee that we safeguard the wellbeing of our loved ones is to ACT now, TOGETHER and WITHOUT exceptions. Stay Home.
Social Distancing is NOT a matter of choice. it is a critical DEMAND from every one of us, in order for our city and our society to remain safe. Remember that we are only as strong as our weakest link. We’re here for you, and trust that we can count on your commitment to act responsibly.
#STAYHOME’
Sheikh Hamdan concluded by reassuring residents of Dubai and the UAE that the government is doing everything in its power to halt the outbreak, and while the government is there for each and every one of us, only together can we combat the pandemic via social distancing.
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