This week, a cargo from Dubai arrived at Israel's Haifa, making headlines across the world. A few months, this journey by the MSC Paris would have been impossible. Are winds of change finally blowing in West Asia with the Abraham Accords?

The West Asia Post: New Dawn of Israeli-UAE Relations

Watch this week's West Asia Post as Ghadi Francis talks to Ali Hamdan, an adviser to the Lebanese Parliament Speaker for more on the Lebanon-Israel maritime talks. Also on the show, we explore how autocrats are hijacking mega sporting events to expand their soft power? For more such stories, keep watching the West Asia post with Ghadi Francis every Friday at 8:30 PM, only on WION.

The West Asia Post - Episode 3

Dubai’s non-oil private sector expanded for a third consecutive month in September as it continued to see a modest improvement in business conditions.

World Business Watch: Dubai non-oil private sector continues modest growth

AE construction giant that built the world's tallest building the Burj Khalifa, Arabtec formally announced that it was going into liquidation after stakeholders found the financial situation unreasonable.

Burj Khalifa builder confirms liquidation | Management to come up with plan | World News

The United Arab Emirates had, in 2017, announced its ambition to colonise Mars within the next 100 years. Architects have taken a step ahead in this scheme of things, and now Dubai is set for an other-worldly architectural project.

Architects are planning to recreate a Martian city in the desert outside Dubai.

The Mars Science City was intended as a field for Dubai's Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) to develop the technology needed to colonise Mars. It was originally earmarked to cover 176,000 square metres of desert and cost approximately $135 million.

Architects Bjarke Ingels Group were then asked to design a prototype of a city suitable for sustaining life on Mars -- and then adapt it for use in the desert.

Notably, Mars has a thin atmosphere and no global magnetic field. There is the problem of temperature as well. The group designers will have to consider these things while framing the model.

To this end, the Bjarke Ingels Group has said the Martian city would be made up of pressurised biodomes each covered with a transparent polyethylene membrane. Oxygen, made by applying electricity to underground ice, would fill each biodome.

As the population on Mars grows, biodomes would be joined together to form villages and eventually form cities in the shape of rings, or "toruses."

The city would be powered and heated using solar energy, and the thin atmosphere could actually help the domes maintain their temperature.

Mars Science City is only one part of the ambitious space programme run by Dubai's Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre. Last year it sent its first astronaut into space; this summer it will launch a probe to Mars, and in November it will undertake its first-ever analog mission. 
&nbsp;

The United Arab Emirates had, in 2017, announced its ambition to colonise Mars within the next 100 years. Architects have taken a step ahead in this scheme of things, and now Dubai is set for an other-worldly architectural project.

The United Arab Emirates had, in 2017, announced its ambition to colonise Mars within the next 100 years. Architects have taken a step ahead in this scheme of things, and now Dubai is set for an other-worldly architectural project. Architects are planning to recreate a Martian city in the desert outside Dubai. The Mars Science City was intended as a field for Dubai's Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) to develop the technology needed to colonise Mars. It was originally earmarked to cover 176,000 square metres of desert and cost approximately $135 million. Architects Bjarke Ingels Group were then asked to design a prototype of a city suitable for sustaining life on Mars -- and then adapt it for use in the desert. Notably, Mars has a thin atmosphere and no global magnetic field. There is the problem of temperature as well. The group designers will have to consider these things while framing the model. To this end, the Bjarke Ingels Group has said the Martian city would be made up of pressurised biodomes each covered with a transparent polyethylene membrane. Oxygen, made by applying electricity to underground ice, would fill each biodome. As the population on Mars grows, biodomes would be joined together to form villages and eventually form cities in the shape of rings, or "toruses." The city would be powered and heated using solar energy, and the thin atmosphere could actually help the domes maintain their temperature. Mars Science City is only one part of the ambitious space programme run by Dubai's Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre. Last year it sent its first astronaut into space; this summer it will launch a probe to Mars, and in November it will undertake its first-ever analog mission.

A prototype Martian city is being built in the desert outside Dubai

Dubai has started a program that makes foreigners over the age of 55 eligible for a five-year renewable visa if they meet certain criteria, according to the Dubai Media Office. The business hub of the Middle East has started the program to attract wealthy retirees as the city a flight of expatriates amid an economic downfall.

The initial phase of the program will focus on UAE residents working in Dubai.

The candidates will be eligible only if they meet one of the following requirements like Monthly income of 20,000 dirhams ($5,445), Savings of 1 million dirhams, Own property in Dubai worth 2 million dirhams.&nbsp;

In 2018, expatriates to stay beyond retirement age. People of foreign nationalities constitute 90 per cent of the city's population, but the residency is tied to employment, discouraging many from setting roots, and in turn investments, in the city.

Dubai has started a program that makes foreigners over the age of 55 eligible for a five-year renewable visa if they meet certain criteria, according to the Dubai Media Office.

Dubai has started a program that makes foreigners over the age of 55 eligible for a five-year renewable visa if they meet certain criteria, according to the Dubai Media Office. The business hub of the Middle East has started the program to attract wealthy retirees as the city a flight of expatriates amid an economic downfall. The initial phase of the program will focus on UAE residents working in Dubai. The candidates will be eligible only if they meet one of the following requirements like Monthly income of 20,000 dirhams ($5,445), Savings of 1 million dirhams, Own property in Dubai worth 2 million dirhams. In 2018, expatriates to stay beyond retirement age. People of foreign nationalities constitute 90 per cent of the city's population, but the residency is tied to employment, discouraging many from setting roots, and in turn investments, in the city.

Dubai starts program to attract wealthy retirees as economy shrinks

Foreign direct investment in Dubai fell by 74% in the first half of the year compared with the same period of 2019, as the coronavirus pandemic stalled parts of the global economy.

Foreign investment in Dubai plummets in first half 2020

A Dubai-based day-care centre for dogs has established a mini-water park where the canines can enjoy a cool splash in the water to escape the heat of Dubai's summer. The facility which opened its doors to the public in 2018, introduced the indoor swimming pool and play area earlier this month.

Dogs take a dip in Dubai's 'Aquapawk' to cool down during summer

Amid the downturn in UAE's real estate sector and weak equity market conditions. A Dubai based real estate investment trust said that it was considering delisting. Watch report.

Emirates REIT investment trust: Dubai real estate fund

Dubai opened its doors to tourists Tuesday after nearly four months of closed borders and grounded flights

Dubai hospitality sector gets ready; All set to welcome visitors

The prayer room at the Sikh temple of Guru Nanak Darbar in Dubai stands empty and its floors are covered in plastic, as the venue makes a few adjustments while preparing to welcome worshippers back in.

Sikh temple Guru Nanak Darbar preparing to reopen

Science has the beauty to bring innovations that one has not imagined so far and in an interesting development, two UAE-based architects are looking at possibilities to build structures using cement made by salt.&nbsp;

Wael Al Awar and Kenichi Teramoto, main architects at waiwai, took guidance from universities in the UAE and Japan to create cement using brine generated by the UAE's desalination plants.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uae-airlines-operating-charter-flights-for-repatriation-of-stranded-indians-306497">UAE airlines operating charter flights for repatriation of stranded Indians</a>

The architects got insipred by country's mineral-rich sabkha, salt flats that exist&nbsp;in wetlands.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-technology/uae-prepares-for-first-arab-space-mission-to-mars-304386">UAE prepares for first Arab space mission to Mars</a>

"It a huge area ... that's often overlooked," Al Awar said, reported CNN.&nbsp;

Centuries ago, Sabhka was used, where blocks were hewn from salt flats and used to establish Siwa, a medieval town in Egypt near the Libyan border.&nbsp;

However, Wael and Kenichi used waste brine, which contains most of its minerals.&nbsp;

Al Awar said their magnesium-based cement can be "equivalent of Portland cement", which uses calcium carbonate as a raw material and is the most commonly used cement in manufacturing concrete.&nbsp;

Highlighting its limitations, Al Awar said that since this cement is made from salt, it can corrode steel reinforcement. &nbsp;

Science has the beauty to bring innovations that one has not imagined so far and in an interesting development, two UAE-based architects are looking at possibilities to build structures using cement made by salt.

Science has the beauty to bring innovations that one has not imagined so far and in an interesting development, two UAE-based architects are looking at possibilities to build structures using cement made by salt. Wael Al Awar and Kenichi Teramoto, main architects at waiwai, took guidance from universities in the UAE and Japan to create cement using brine generated by the UAE's desalination plants. Also read | UAE airlines operating charter flights for repatriation of stranded Indians The architects got insipred by country's mineral-rich sabkha, salt flats that exist in wetlands. Also read | UAE prepares for first Arab space mission to Mars "It a huge area ... that's often overlooked," Al Awar said, reported CNN. Centuries ago, Sabhka was used, where blocks were hewn from salt flats and used to establish Siwa, a medieval town in Egypt near the Libyan border. However, Wael and Kenichi used waste brine, which contains most of its minerals. Al Awar said their magnesium-based cement can be "equivalent of Portland cement", which uses calcium carbonate as a raw material and is the most commonly used cement in manufacturing concrete. Highlighting its limitations, Al Awar said that since this cement is made from salt, it can corrode steel reinforcement.

UAE: Architects use salt to create cement

Dubai announced on Sunday that it will allow foreign visitors to enter the country from July 7, while foreigners with residency visas will be able to enter from June 22, the Dubai Media Office said on Sunday.

Dubai announced on Sunday that it will allow foreign visitors to enter the country from July 7, while foreigners with residency visas will be able to enter from June 22, the Dubai Media Office said on Sunday. "Dubai to welcome tourists from July 7," the emirate's media centre said, quoting the Supreme Committee of Crisis and Disaster Management. It also gave a list of protocols for travellers entering the Gulf emirate. Also read: Dubai turns 828-metre Burj Khalifa into coronavirus charity box "Travellers must stringently comply with preventive measures and safety procedures put in place by Dubai and destination countries," the report said. Tourists are "required to present recent COVID-19 negative certificate or undergo testing at Dubai airports" it said, with those testing positive to observe a 14-day isolation. Also read: India's consul general in Dubai Vipul lauds UAE authorities as India repatriates stranded citizens A test for coronavirus is mandatory and should done 96 hours before travelling to Dubai, the report said. Visitors are also required to have international health insurance and download a special phone application that lists their details, as well as fill a special "health declaration form", it added. Dubai also announced that citizens and residents would be allowed to travel abroad from Tuesday. (With inputs from agencies)

Dubai to allow foreign visitors to enter the country from July 7

Dubai is staring at an economic collapse. One of the world’s most popular tourist destinations is feeling the heat like never before. No tourists, no oil money, the pandemic has left Dubai scrambling for money.

Dubai is staring at an economic collapse. One of the world’s most popular tourist destinations is feeling the heat like never before. No tourists, no oil money, the pandemic has left Dubai scrambling for money. If nothing is done most of Dubai's businesses will shut down over the next six months. Dubai, a city of skyscrapers and artificial archipelagos, a global hub for free movement of trade, people and money, and a symposium of luxury shopping and lively nightlife - well, all that’s in the past. The pandemic has shaken the most resilient sheikdom in the United Arab Emirates. An astounding 70 per cent of the businesses in Dubai are expected to shut shop in the next six months. Dubai is one of the least oil-reliant economies in the Gulf but that’s no insulation from the ravages of the lockdown. Dubai’s fuel is hospitality, tourism, entertainment, property, and retail. One of the busiest international airports in the world with two popular airlines - Emirates and Etihad have had all operations grounded. The world’s most dominating skyscraper -- the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Mall, Palm Jumeirah, Mall of the Emirates, and even the Dubai gold souk. All are in the pits of despair with business shut down during the lockdown. Half of Dubai’s internationally known hotels and restaurants will go out of business in the next month alone. 74 per cent of the travel and tourism businesses will down shutters, according to findings by the Dubai chamber of commerce. Businesses in the UAE are slashing salaries, sending employees on unpaid leave, and reducing staff. Dubai did allow some of its malls and businesses to reopen at around 30 per cent capacity but, there were hardly any customers. UAE is heavily-reliant on its 80 per cent expatriate population to eat out and shop. Most of these rich expatriates including Indians have left for their home country. In late March, Dubai did announce an economic package to cushion the impact. With the oil-prices remaining at lower than expected levels and, economies still scampering back to normalcy, more oil money is hard to find to boost the economy. The pandemic cannot be blamed entirely for the collapse. Dubai’s hot cake for the recent decades -- real estate is metaphorically crumbling to the ground. Residential property prices are down 30 per cent from the 2014 peak. On the commercial side, mostly of hotels and restaurants revenue per room is down 25 per cent since 2015. Last year, Dubai’s economic growth was slightly over one per cent. The worst since the global financial crisis in 2008. For all the expansionary projects undertaken in recent decades. Dubai and its vast web of state-linked industries are facing billions of dollars in looming debt repayments and for the foreseeable future there will be no oil money, no tourism, no foreign funds, no big real estate deals. A city that seemed glorious under its blinding night lights, is today struggling to stay alive. Also watch ×

Coronavirus pandemic jolts Dubai's economy

Dubai, one of the world's most popular tourist destinations is staring at an economic collapse. The Coronavirus pandemic has left the Sheikdom scrambling for money.

Gravitas: Coronavirus shakes Dubai's Sheikdom

Tourism hub Dubai on Wednesday (May 27) moved to allow recreation spots such as a ski slope, cinemas, gyms and ice rinks to re-open after weeks of closure.

Dubai skiers hit the slopes as coronavirus restrictions lift

An Indian businessman, based in India, won the Dubai Duty Free (DDF) Millennium Millionaire on Wednesday.&nbsp;Rajan Kurian, a 43 year old businessman from&nbsp;Kottayam, Kerala, won&nbsp;a million dollars (equivalent to&nbsp;Rs. 76 million).

His winning ticket&nbsp;number 2852 was picked up from series 330.

Rajan had been buying tickets for DDF promotions since October 2019.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-why-was-boycottuae-trending-in-pak-300019">Also watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: Why was #BoycottUAE trending in Pak?</a>

“I will set aside a good part of my win to help needy. I feel grateful with the win but I need to share it people who need it,” he told a media organization.

Rajan was escalated to win the DDF, as the past few days have been gloomy and difficult due to the coronavirus pandemic. He has planned to use a part of the money for his business developments, and will save the rest for his children's future needs.

“The last few months have been tough with the COVID-19 situation. My business has come to a standstill. This money will be put to good use," he told a media organization.

Four other winners were announced who won a luxury vehicle each.

An Indian businessman, based in India, won the Dubai Duty Free (DDF) Millennium Millionaire on Wednesday. Rajan Kurian, a 43 year old businessman from Kottayam, Kerala, won a million dollars (equivalent to Rs.

An Indian businessman, based in India, won the Dubai Duty Free (DDF) Millennium Millionaire on Wednesday. Rajan Kurian, a 43 year old businessman from Kottayam, Kerala, won a million dollars (equivalent to Rs. 76 million). His winning ticket number 2852 was picked up from series 330. Rajan had been buying tickets for DDF promotions since October 2019. Also watch: Gravitas: Why was #BoycottUAE trending in Pak? “I will set aside a good part of my win to help needy. I feel grateful with the win but I need to share it people who need it,” he told a media organization. Rajan was escalated to win the DDF, as the past few days have been gloomy and difficult due to the coronavirus pandemic. He has planned to use a part of the money for his business developments, and will save the rest for his children's future needs. “The last few months have been tough with the COVID-19 situation. My business has come to a standstill. This money will be put to good use," he told a media organization. Four other winners were announced who won a luxury vehicle each.

Kerala-based businessman wins a million dollar in Dubai Duty Free draw

Evening dresses made of gold mesh, gilded sunglasses and glittering crowns are sparkling again from the windows of Dubai’s historic gold souk which was shuttered during the coronavirus lockdown.

Dubai's gold market reopens after Coronavirus Lockdown

Dubai's 828-metre Burj Khalifa has been turned into a glowing charity donation box, raising money for food for United Arab Emirates residents suffering the economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic.

The UAE has so far recorded 19,661 coronavirus cases and 203 deaths, the second highest death toll after Saudi Arabia of the six Gulf states. Dubai's economy has been hit hard by the coronavirus-induced lockdown. Many people have lost jobs or had incomes reduced.

To this end, each of the world's tallest building's 1.2 million external lights was 'sold' for 10 dirhams ($2.70), enough to buy one meal. As donations came in, the tower 'filled up', and people could also bid to claim the light at the very top.

The donation box has raised funds for more than 1.2 million meals so far.

The fundraising drive is part of a campaign to fund 10 million meals for low-income families during the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan by MBRGI, patronised by Dubai's ruler and UAE Vice President Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

(with inputs from Reuters)

Dubai's 828-metre Burj Khalifa has been turned into a glowing charity donation box, raising money for food for United Arab Emirates residents suffering the economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic.

Dubai's 828-metre Burj Khalifa has been turned into a glowing charity donation box, raising money for food for United Arab Emirates residents suffering the economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic. The UAE has so far recorded 19,661 coronavirus cases and 203 deaths, the second highest death toll after Saudi Arabia of the six Gulf states. Dubai's economy has been hit hard by the coronavirus-induced lockdown. Many people have lost jobs or had incomes reduced. To this end, each of the world's tallest building's 1.2 million external lights was 'sold' for 10 dirhams ($2.70), enough to buy one meal. As donations came in, the tower 'filled up', and people could also bid to claim the light at the very top. The donation box has raised funds for more than 1.2 million meals so far. The fundraising drive is part of a campaign to fund 10 million meals for low-income families during the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan by MBRGI, patronised by Dubai's ruler and UAE Vice President Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. (with inputs from Reuters)

Dubai turns 828-metre Burj Khalifa into coronavirus charity box

The Abu Dhabi BAPS Hindu Temple will participate in the "Prayers for Humanity" initiative. This initiative is being organized by&nbsp;the Higher Committee on Human Fraternity.

The prayer will be held on May 14 with the objective to&nbsp;unite&nbsp;people in the fight against coronavirus.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/two-indian-nationals-flown-back-from-gulf-to-kerala-test-coronavirus-positive-297666">Also read:&nbsp;Two Indian nationals flown back from Gulf to Kerala test coronavirus positive</a>

The prayer meeting will commence at 9pm on Thursday and will include prayers from different cultures of India.

Head of the BAPS Hindu Mandir, Abu Dhabi, Brahmavihari Swamiji said, "We are honoured to join the Pray for Humanity initiative organised by the Higher Committee on Human Fraternity (HCHF). It is an inspiring call to action which will unite humanity in prayer to the Almighty whose compassion, guidance and protection we all seek in these trying times."

Talking about the prayer meeting,&nbsp;Brahmavihari Swamiji urged everyone to come together and pray for the betterment of humanity. Talking about the coronavirus, he said the prayer will help people unite through heart and soul and pray that the world overcomes this deadly virus that has already claimed so many lives.

The prayer meeting will also include&nbsp;devotional songs, a video presentation, chanting and meditation.

Interested person can log onto "prayer.Mandir.Ae" to join the service.

(With inputs from PTI)

The Abu Dhabi BAPS Hindu Temple will participate in the "Prayers for Humanity" initiative. This initiative is being organized by the Higher Committee on Human Fraternity.

The Abu Dhabi BAPS Hindu Temple will participate in the "Prayers for Humanity" initiative. This initiative is being organized by the Higher Committee on Human Fraternity. The prayer will be held on May 14 with the objective to unite people in the fight against coronavirus. Also read: Two Indian nationals flown back from Gulf to Kerala test coronavirus positive The prayer meeting will commence at 9pm on Thursday and will include prayers from different cultures of India. Head of the BAPS Hindu Mandir, Abu Dhabi, Brahmavihari Swamiji said, "We are honoured to join the Pray for Humanity initiative organised by the Higher Committee on Human Fraternity (HCHF). It is an inspiring call to action which will unite humanity in prayer to the Almighty whose compassion, guidance and protection we all seek in these trying times." Talking about the prayer meeting, Brahmavihari Swamiji urged everyone to come together and pray for the betterment of humanity. Talking about the coronavirus, he said the prayer will help people unite through heart and soul and pray that the world overcomes this deadly virus that has already claimed so many lives. The prayer meeting will also include devotional songs, a video presentation, chanting and meditation. Interested person can log onto "prayer.Mandir.Ae" to join the service. (With inputs from PTI)

Hindu Temple in Abu Dhabi to hold prayer meeting

India's consul general in Dubai, Vipul has said that the ongoing repatriation is going "very well and smoothly" as many flights from the city land in India. Speaking exclusively to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal from Dubai, Vipul lauded the UAE authorities saying that have been "very helpful and cooperative." Remember 250,000 Indians in UAE have registered for repatriation, the maximum anywhere in the world with a large number of flights originating from Dubai making the task much more complex in the West Asian country which hosts maximum numbers of Indians anywhere in the world.

WION Speaks to India's consul general in Dubai Vipul

Pakistani nationals protest in Dubai as more than 2,000 Pakistanis stuck in United Arab Emirates. Stranded Pakistani nationals beg authorities to take them home.

Pak Nationals protest in Dubai, More than 2,000 Pakistanis stuck in UAE

In the wake of rapidly spreading coronavirus, Dubai has imposed a two-week lockdown to combat the spread. By now, Dubai was under a night curfew along with the rest of United Arab Emirates for about a week 
&nbsp; 
The UAE has more than&nbsp;1, 500 confirmed coronavirus cases, while 10 others are reported to have died.

While announcing the lockdown on Sunday, the country’s Supreme Committee of Crisis and Disaster Management called for strict adherence to the lockdown otherwise, legal action could be taken against the violators. 
&nbsp; 
During the lockdown, essential services like supermarkets and pharmacies will be completely functional. People will be only allowed to leave their homes for essential purposes only and just one family member is permitted to go out at any one time. 
&nbsp; 
People working in vital sectors are exempted from the imposed restrictions. 
&nbsp; 
Under the lockdown measures, Dubai's metro and tram service will be suspended for two weeks. 
&nbsp; 
Bus transportation will be functional for free and taxi rides will be offered at a 50 per cent discount during the lockdown. 
&nbsp; 
&nbsp;The emirate, which had previously sealed of the Al Ras area that houses a large migrant population, will now conduct extensive medical tests across densely populated areas. 
&nbsp; 
To combat the deadly virus, the country is also holding extensive disinfection drives. Public areas like parks and public transports were disinfected over the night. 
&nbsp; 
&nbsp;Meanwhile, &nbsp;Saudi Arabia has sealed off seven neighbourhoods of the red sea city of Jeddah as Gulf states tightened measures in big cities to contain the spread of the coronavirus.

Saudi Arabia is worst hit in the six-nation Gulf Cooperation Council.

In the wake of rapidly spreading coronavirus, Dubai has imposed a two-week lockdown to combat the spread. By now, Dubai was under a night curfew along with the rest of United Arab Emirates for about a week The UAE has more than 1, 500 confirmed coronavirus cases, while 10 others are reported to have died.

In the wake of rapidly spreading coronavirus, Dubai has imposed a two-week lockdown to combat the spread. By now, Dubai was under a night curfew along with the rest of United Arab Emirates for about a week The UAE has more than 1, 500 confirmed coronavirus cases, while 10 others are reported to have died. While announcing the lockdown on Sunday, the country’s Supreme Committee of Crisis and Disaster Management called for strict adherence to the lockdown otherwise, legal action could be taken against the violators. During the lockdown, essential services like supermarkets and pharmacies will be completely functional. People will be only allowed to leave their homes for essential purposes only and just one family member is permitted to go out at any one time. People working in vital sectors are exempted from the imposed restrictions. Under the lockdown measures, Dubai's metro and tram service will be suspended for two weeks. Bus transportation will be functional for free and taxi rides will be offered at a 50 per cent discount during the lockdown. The emirate, which had previously sealed of the Al Ras area that houses a large migrant population, will now conduct extensive medical tests across densely populated areas. To combat the deadly virus, the country is also holding extensive disinfection drives. Public areas like parks and public transports were disinfected over the night. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia has sealed off seven neighbourhoods of the red sea city of Jeddah as Gulf states tightened measures in big cities to contain the spread of the coronavirus. Saudi Arabia is worst hit in the six-nation Gulf Cooperation Council.

Two-weeks lockdown imposed in Dubai amid COVID-19 spread

Dubai has taken adequate measures to screen passengers for the deadly coronavirus symptoms at all travel points for travellers entering the country from high-risk areas in order to avoid any delay or inconvenience at the ports of entry, a senior official has said.

In the UAE, the total number of confirmed infections is 45.

"All concerned authorities are working round the clock in coordination with the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention and Dubai Health Authority's (DHA) medical team to implement precautionary measures against COVID-19," Commander-in-Chief of Dubai Police and Head of Dubai's Crisis and Disaster Management Team, Major General Abdullah Khalifa Al-Marri, said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-reports-27-new-virus-deaths-lowest-rise-in-cases-since-january-284962">China reports 27 new virus deaths, lowest rise in cases since January</a>

According to him, the highest levels of safety and protection for the public are being ensured. Substantial preventive measures have been put in place in various airports and seaports in the emirate.

Al-Marri said that the equipment to screen passengers for coronavirus symptoms have been installed at all travel points.

He further said enhanced screening measures have been put in place for travellers entering the UAE from high-risk countries and that these measures do not apply to transit passengers. Enhanced screening procedures include a swab test and a health questionnaire.

Watch:&nbsp;

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"Travellers should be aware that this may add 2-3 hours to their journey time, he pointed out. After the test, travellers are free to continue their journey.&nbsp;

They will be contacted only if any further intervention is needed, such as reporting to a medical facility or self-quarantine," he said in a statement.

Dubai has taken adequate measures to screen passengers for the deadly coronavirus symptoms at all travel points for travellers entering the country from high-risk areas in order to avoid any delay or inconvenience at the ports of entry, a senior official has said.

Dubai has taken adequate measures to screen passengers for the deadly coronavirus symptoms at all travel points for travellers entering the country from high-risk areas in order to avoid any delay or inconvenience at the ports of entry, a senior official has said. In the UAE, the total number of confirmed infections is 45. "All concerned authorities are working round the clock in coordination with the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention and Dubai Health Authority's (DHA) medical team to implement precautionary measures against COVID-19," Commander-in-Chief of Dubai Police and Head of Dubai's Crisis and Disaster Management Team, Major General Abdullah Khalifa Al-Marri, said. Also read: China reports 27 new virus deaths, lowest rise in cases since January According to him, the highest levels of safety and protection for the public are being ensured. Substantial preventive measures have been put in place in various airports and seaports in the emirate. Al-Marri said that the equipment to screen passengers for coronavirus symptoms have been installed at all travel points. He further said enhanced screening measures have been put in place for travellers entering the UAE from high-risk countries and that these measures do not apply to transit passengers. Enhanced screening procedures include a swab test and a health questionnaire. Watch: × "Travellers should be aware that this may add 2-3 hours to their journey time, he pointed out. After the test, travellers are free to continue their journey. They will be contacted only if any further intervention is needed, such as reporting to a medical facility or self-quarantine," he said in a statement.

Dubai travellers reassured on screening procedures for COVID-19

WION is India's first international news channel dedicated to putting forth India's perspective on impactful global issues and the annual conclave, WION Global Summit, is a platform for global leaders to come together at a single platform and have a dialogue on a common global agenda affecting the world - news that shook the world. This year we highlight the critical challenges of climate change, global governance, economic slowdown, and global crisis that threatens to become the new normal.

WION Global Summit 2020: Global Thinkers Forum: Leaders who Matter

WION Global Summit 2020: Balancing and Recalibrating Pakistan's Diplomatic Strategy

Watch WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay deliver the welcome note at WION Global Summit in Dubai.

WION Global Summit is a platform of constructive conversation | Palki Sharma Upadhyay | Dubai

CEO and Editor-in-Chief of WION Sudhir Chaudhary spoke at the WION Global Summit in Dubai. He said, "World leaders and opinion makers watch this channel for its factual and research-based coverage and this is what makes us different from other channels." Watch the video to know more:

World leaders watch WION for factual & researched coverage | WION Global Summit | Sudhir Chaudhary

National general secretary of BJP Ram Madhav spoke at the WION Global Summit 2020 in Dubai. He said, India has arrived, it is no longer the old reticent India anymore. We are a pragmatic, proactive nation and more importantly, we are a very ambitious nation today." Watch the video to listen more:

India is a very ambitious nation today | Ram Madhav | WION Global Summit | Dubai

Former Prime Minister of Sri Lanka Ranil Wickremesinghe spoke at the WION Global Summit 2020 in Dubai. He said, "The world is suddenly experiencing an unprecedented, multi-area transition ever since the industrial revolution which started 200 years ago....." Watch the video to listen more.

World is suddenly experiencing unprecedented changes | Ranil Wickremesinghe | WION Global Summit

Major&nbsp;concerts&nbsp;and&nbsp;events&nbsp;in the United Arab Emirates, an air transit centre as well as a tourism and business hub, have been&nbsp;cancelled&nbsp;or&nbsp;postponed&nbsp;as the coronavirus&nbsp;spreads&nbsp;in the&nbsp;Gulf.

There have been at least 1,641 cases of the&nbsp;virus&nbsp;in the&nbsp;Gulf&nbsp;region, mostly in Iran where 66 people have died. Cases have also been reported in other Middle East nations.

The March 5-6 electronic music Ultra festival at Abu Dhabi's 25,000-capacity Du arena and the March 21 K-pop concert Music Bank at Dubai's 17,000-capacity Coca Cola Arena have been&nbsp;cancelled.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gulf-bourses-dive-as-coronavirus-hits-oil-price-283585">Gulf bourses dive as coronavirus hits oil price</a>

Organisers of Ultra, where electronic group Major Lazer and DJ Afrojack were to perform, cited travel restrictions imposed by some countries and airlines in the wake of the rapidly-spreading&nbsp;virus.

South Korea's national broadcaster KBS and crowdfunding platform Makestar, organisers of the K-pop concert, said Music Bank was&nbsp;cancelled&nbsp;because of the spread of the epidemic in South Korea and elsewhere.

The&nbsp;UAE, which has reported 21 cases, regularly hosts major conferences,&nbsp;concerts&nbsp;and sporting&nbsp;events, a significant draw-card for foreign visitors.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/handshake-no-thanks-coronavirus-changes-global-habits-283893">Handshake? No thanks! Coronavirus changes global habits</a>

The&nbsp;UAE&nbsp;central bank will reassess its forecast for economic growth in 2020 due to the coronavirus&nbsp;outbreak, an official said on Tuesday.

A women's forum and yoga festival in Abu Dhabi and a carnival in Dubai for the Hindu holi festival, all in March, have also been&nbsp;cancelled&nbsp;or rescheduled.

Meanwhile, American rapper and producer Russ said his March 27 concert in Dubai will now take place in November because of the&nbsp;virus.

"I know, wild lol (laugh out loud) but outta my control," he said on Twitter.

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🇦🇪🇦🇪🇦🇪🇦🇪 
 
I have to postpone the Dubai show due to the coronavirus. I know, wild lol but outta my control..but your tickets will all be valid for the new date which will be November 27 this year. 
 
Sorry again, I’m kinda shocked as well 😔 🤷‍♂️
— Russ (@russdiemon) <a href="https://twitter.com/russdiemon/status/1234538623669874696?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Dubai has&nbsp;postponed&nbsp;its March boat show until November and Abu Dhabi&nbsp;postponed&nbsp;the ITU World Triathlon event this month, after earlier cancelling a cycling tournament where two elite participants were diagnosed with the&nbsp;virus.

Major concerts and events in the United Arab Emirates, an air transit centre as well as a tourism and business hub, have been cancelled or postponed as the coronavirus spreads in the Gulf.

Major concerts and events in the United Arab Emirates, an air transit centre as well as a tourism and business hub, have been cancelled or postponed as the coronavirus spreads in the Gulf. There have been at least 1,641 cases of the virus in the Gulf region, mostly in Iran where 66 people have died. Cases have also been reported in other Middle East nations. The March 5-6 electronic music Ultra festival at Abu Dhabi's 25,000-capacity Du arena and the March 21 K-pop concert Music Bank at Dubai's 17,000-capacity Coca Cola Arena have been cancelled. Also read: Gulf bourses dive as coronavirus hits oil price Organisers of Ultra, where electronic group Major Lazer and DJ Afrojack were to perform, cited travel restrictions imposed by some countries and airlines in the wake of the rapidly-spreading virus. South Korea's national broadcaster KBS and crowdfunding platform Makestar, organisers of the K-pop concert, said Music Bank was cancelled because of the spread of the epidemic in South Korea and elsewhere. The UAE, which has reported 21 cases, regularly hosts major conferences, concerts and sporting events, a significant draw-card for foreign visitors. Also see: Handshake? No thanks! Coronavirus changes global habits The UAE central bank will reassess its forecast for economic growth in 2020 due to the coronavirus outbreak, an official said on Tuesday. A women's forum and yoga festival in Abu Dhabi and a carnival in Dubai for the Hindu holi festival, all in March, have also been cancelled or rescheduled. Meanwhile, American rapper and producer Russ said his March 27 concert in Dubai will now take place in November because of the virus. "I know, wild lol (laugh out loud) but outta my control," he said on Twitter. 🇦🇪🇦🇪🇦🇪🇦🇪 I have to postpone the Dubai show due to the coronavirus. I know, wild lol but outta my control..but your tickets will all be valid for the new date which will be November 27 this year. Sorry again, I’m kinda shocked as well 😔 🤷‍♂️ — Russ (@russdiemon) March 2, 2020 × Watch: × Dubai has postponed its March boat show until November and Abu Dhabi postponed the ITU World Triathlon event this month, after earlier cancelling a cycling tournament where two elite participants were diagnosed with the virus.

Concerts, sports events in UAE cancelled, postponed as virus spreads in Gulf

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