In a significant development, the UAE has administered more than nine million doses of COVID-19 vaccines as part of the efforts to inoculate all members of society against the virus.

According to UAE officials, the landmark figure was achieved on April 11 after more than 30,000 fresh vaccine doses were administered to the public during the preceding 24 hours. Under the UAE's National Vaccination Programme, the authorities have given a total of 9,005,444 doses to date, which indicates around 91.05 shots for every 100 people in the country.

In yet another positive sign, the UAE has recorded less than 2,000 new infections for three days in a row. On Sunday the UAE recorded 1,810 new cases, while there were 1,931 fresh cases on Saturday. There has been a significant decrease in the number of new cases in recent days: Monday (2,012), Tuesday (1,988), Wednesday (1,883), Thursday (2,112), and Friday (1,875). UAE doctors have said that it is a step towards achieving herd immunity.

"We are thrilled that the UAE has achieved this incredible milestone. The current rate of inoculation not only reduces the chances of virus transmission within the community but also protects citizens and residents from foreign visitors who may be carrying the virus," said Dr. Adel Alsisi, chief medical officer of Prime Hospital.

Asserting that the country is moving towards achieving herd immunity, Dr. Alsisi urged all residents and citizens to continue compliance with COVID-19 protocols, including wearing face masks and following social distancing measures.

According to the UAE Ministry of Health, the ongoing efforts to vaccinate all members of society will help in reaching acquired immunity in order to reduce daily infections and control the spread of the virus in the country.

Dr. Rohit Kumar, Medical Director at Medeor Hospital Dubai, affirmed that administering nine million vaccine doses in such a short duration is a commendable achievement.

"The rapid pace and progress in vaccinating the population is a testament to our leadership’s vision and commitment. The massive efforts of the government have lowered the number of daily positive cases reported in the country," he said.

Dr. Kumar added that there has been a continuous decrease in the number of COVID-19 cases this week. He underlined that the milestone was achieved due to increased vaccinations.

"If the mass vaccination and other measures are going at the same pace, we will be soon able to overcome the deadly virus,” Dr. Kumar added.