The UAE has ranked first globally in terms of the percentage of people who have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. Addressing a weekly COVID-19 briefing of the UAE government, Dr Farida Al Hosani, official spokesperson of the UAE Health Sector, highlighted that 91 percent of the country’s population has received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccination.

“At least 80.38 per cent of the country’s population has taken both doses of the vaccine, according to Our World in Data, ranking UAE second in the world,” Dr Hosani added.

In addition, the UAE has the fifth lowest COVID-19 death rate in the world. The country has ranked third worldwide in terms of the number of Coronavirus tests performed per 1,000 people in countries with population over than one million.

“These numbers include tests done from the start of the pandemic until September 12,” she added.

She explained that the number of COVID-19 infections has also decreased by 60 percent in August 2021 compared to the same time last year. She attributed the ongoing success against COVID-19 to the robust national vaccination campaign and adherence showcased by community members in following the safety regulations.

Vaccines have contributed to preventing infections and reducing complications due to the disease. Admission to hospitals and duration have minimised significantly along with the need for ventilators due to increased vaccination rate in the country.

In conclusion, Dr Al Hosani called on all eligible residents to receive their vaccine booster dose that helps in enhancing immunity against the virus. She also urged people to take a COVID-19 test if they experience any symptoms of the disease. The health sector official further called on all Emiratis and expats to take the seasonal flu vaccine, reminding to maintain a gap of two weeks between the COVID-19 and flu vaccine.

“The success of Emirates would not have been possible if the integration between the government and people did not exist. Members of the society are full commitment to adhering to safety protocols and preventive measures," she said.