#InThisTogether: Covid-19 Update

As much as people (ie our fab employees at EER) have heroically adapted to the new realities of our day to day lives (their ‘teams’ game is strong!), so much about the current situation still seems so unbelievable. Arguably few situations in history have so dominated our society and our communities. Industries remain under threat as the world’s smartest researchers rush to speed up vaccine tests and governments have to make tough decisions about how to save lives and economies.

At this point we don’t know how long the crisis will last, but the likelihood of life returning completely normal in the next few months, if ever, is extremely unlikely. But it is important that we are able to work together to safeguard our health and our future. That is why EER is so committed to maintaining the highest levels of service so that our clients can keep moving forward and continue to contribute to economies around the world so that all countries can sustain their fight against the coronavirus. Let’s take a look at some of the updates that matter most:

Individual Support, On-going Action

• In Dubai, the Supreme Committee of Crisis and Disaster Management extended the 24 hour National Sterilisation Programme for an additional week to, at least, 26^th April 2020. This means non-essential workers must continue to stay in their homes and can now only obtain a movement permit for essential supplies once every three days.  Pharmacies and supermarkets will remain open, as well as essential services, but medical trips must be separately approved for permit.
• The UAE Government has also strengthened its resolve in combating false or abusive information by implementing fines and even arresting people for destructive online behaviour.
• Those currently inside the UAE visiting on a Tourist Visa will not incur overstay fines until 31^st December 2020.
• To aid in consumer protection, the government has implemented a price monitor to prevent hiked prices during the crisis and consumers can raise complaints and check details at price.ded.ae
• As well as the brand new hospital that has been constructed in the World Trade Centre, the UAE now have a series of drive-through testing centres to help track the spread of the virus and identify those in need of treatment. Free tests are available for pregnant women, people of determination or those showing symptoms or having been in close proximity to virus sufferers.

Your Business, Global Economy

• All residency visas and Emirates IDs that where due to expire on 1^st March or later will be automatically extended until the end of 2020, even if the holder isn’t in the UAE.
• Emirates IDs currently under process will be eligible for direct home delivery.
• Employees can change jobs during this time as change of status applications are still allowed and even though processing could be delayed, no fines will be imposed.
• The Government’s Tawajudi service to repatriate citizens, has now been extended to include expatriate residency visa holders.
• Free zone authorities have made trade license and establishment card renewals valid for 15 months, instead of 12 and late renewals will not be subject to penalties.
• A series of surveys have been introduced to gauge the level of support needed in various industries, including the creative services sector, which is likely to result in further assistance measures.
• Various initiatives have been implemented across the UAE to aid existing and new companies in sustainment during the crisis, including rent relief, fine waivers, discounts and new online support services. You can read more about the individual areas here – Dubai Multi Commodity Center (DMCC), Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) and DIFC.

Remote Service, Not Remote Quality

To make sure governments and institutions have the resources to help us survive the spread of Covid-19, we need to play our part in helping health care workers and keeping the economy moving where we can. That is why EER was quick to implement our business continuity plan, in order to ensure our continued support for our clients. All of our employees are working from home until at least 26^th April 2020 at the moment, but all of them are liaising with clients remotely. We will continue to adhere to WHO and Government guidelines every step of the way so that we can protect the health and safety of our employees and clients.

As always, we hope you are all staying safe and well during this difficult time.  Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you need assistance and remember we are all #inthistogether.

#stayhome