The UAE public has risen to the challenge of the Covid-19 pandemic and shown solidarity and harmony to help lead a nationwide recovery, a government official said on Tuesday. Pandemic safety measures – including social distancing and quarantine protocols – had "reshaped" the lives of all sections of society, during an outbreak that has stretched for more than a year, said the official. But the global health crisis showed citizens and residents alike were capable of overcoming such adversity. "Emirati society has lived through many changes, and many things have changed," said Mona Khalil, a government spokeswoman, at a televised briefing on Tuesday. "It has reshaped our lives. Social distancing and home quarantine are among the most important precautionary measures that have brought about a major change in the behaviour of the individual and society, with the increase in community solidarity." Members of the public had embraced volunteering and showed a desire to help others grappling with the impact of Covid-19 – whether on physical or mental health or the financial fallout of the pandemic, said the official. "Volunteering is one of the most prominent indicators of community cohesion. We have noticed a great awareness and self-commitment from individuals, entities and volunteer teams to contribute to social initiatives that will... accelerate the recovery process and return to normal life," she said. The spokeswoman said family bonds had been strengthened as people came together – in mind if not always in person – during unprecedented times. "Covid-19 has shed a light on the importance of solidarity," she said. "There has been a changing of some social habits to protect the health and wellbeing of all members of the community." The official said the government had taken decisive action to protect vulnerable members of society, such as the elderly. Covid-19 screening and vaccinations were offered at the homes of those unable to travel to health centres.
