Phase 3 vaccine trials began in the UAE this week

The UAE announced 293 new cases of coronavirus, on Friday, bringing the total number of infections in the country to 56,422 and totally 48,448 people had recovered from the virus, total number of deaths is 335  as of July 17.

Phase 3 vaccine trials began in the UAE this week. The vaccine will be available to volunteers between the ages of 18-60. The trials are the result of a partnership between UAE's G42 and Sinopharm. 100% of volunteers generated antibodies in the first two phases. The vaccine could enter the market by the end of 2020 if successful.

The UAE has conducted over four million tests for COVID-19 - the highest rate in the world; roughly one for every 2.5 people in the country. Results for swab tests are now delivered in a matter of hours, and the UAE-developed laser testing technology is providing instant results on the Dubai-Abu Dhabi border.

No new deaths were reported over a 48 hour period, for the first time in over three months.

Hotel occupancy rates in the UAE capital have risen by 3% year-on-year since July 1 and are expected to rise further with the launch of a number of initiatives within the emirate aimed at boosting the sector.

The UAE sent COVID-19 aid to Kazakhstan, Mexico, and Burkina Faso. The UAE has delivered over 1,000 tonnes of COVID-19 aid to 73 countries.

More than 320,000 people have returned to their home countries on repatriation flights launched from the UAE, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Etihad has launched a home-testing service for travelers. Medical professionals will visit passengers at home to collect the swab, and send them results within 24 hours. The service is optional.

The UAE Government's new Cabinet was sworn in on Saturday, following the reshuffle of ministries and departments, which was designed to prepare the UAE government better for the post-pandemic world.