In a major development, the UAE's national vaccination campaign has successfully inoculated approximately 85 percent of the total eligible population. During a weekly COVID-19 briefing on Tuesday, Dr Taher Al Ameri, official spokesperson for National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA), noted that 84.66% of the UAE's population have been vaccinated against the disease. He added that over 95 percent of senior citizens above the age of 60 in the UAE have received their vaccination.

Dr Al Ameri underlined that the UAE's vaccination drive has reached top ranks globally as it provides the best options for COVID-19 vaccines to its population. As of now, the UAE is administering four authorised vaccines: Pfizer-BioNTech, Oxford AstraZeneca, Russia's Sputnik V, and the Chinese-made Sinopharm. UAE firm Julphar in Ras Al Khaimah is also producing the Sinopharm vaccine locally under the name Hayat-Vax.

During the briefing, the NCEMA spokesperson noted that the establishment of field hospitals across Emirates has been the centre of the UAE's fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. The health authorities set up 10 field hospitals equipped with 1,500 medical specialists across the country to handle the pandemic. Equipped with all necessary medical services such as laboratories, pharmacies, and X-ray facilities, these specialised field hospitals have the capacity to treat more than 3,500 patients.

"The field hospitals help in saving lives and protecting the health and wellness of the society,” Dr Al Ameri said.

He said medical care standards in the field hospitals are the same as those adopted in all healthcare facilities in the UAE.

He further reminded community members that only vaccinated people and those who participated in clinical trials are allowed to attend gatherings, exhibitions and public events. They are also required to present a negative PCR test conducted no more than 48 hours before the event. The official further urged everyone to comply with the necessary COVID-19 precautionary measures including wearing masks and maintaining social distancing to ensure public health and safety.

“Although you have received the vaccine, this doesn't mean that you will not contract COVID-19. The vaccines will help you have fewer complications and milder symptoms,” he said.

Furthermore, the Ministry of Health and Prevention has approved a new colour-coded system for Al Hosn app to promote ease of movement and tourism worldwide.

The system will cover six categories, including fully vaccinated, those awaiting their second dose, those who are late for their second dose appointment; exempted individuals from vaccination, and unvaccinated people. The app will also show details related to the duration of vaccination.

The ministry has highlighted the Al Hosn will be used by federal and local authorities according to their individual needs and procedures.