The UAE said on Tuesday it conducted 38,000 COVID-19 tests throughout the country for the early detection of infections; particularly among those who had contact with diagnosed cases.
The Health Ministry said testing resulted in the detection of 873 new cases among various nationalities; bringing the total to 25,063.
It also announced the death of three patients from various nationalities due to complications arising from COVID-19. Fatalities now stand at 227.
According to the Ministry, 1,214 patients fully recovered after receiving the necessary medical care; raising the total number of recoveries to 10,791.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MoFAIC); and the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA); said foreign nationals holding a valid residence visa can return to the UAE starting June 1.
MoFAIC and ICA in a joint statement said the decision stems from the UAE's keenness to allow those holding valid residence visas to reunite with their families. After they were separated due to the precautionary measures imposed to contain the spread of COVID-19.
"The move is aimed at streamlining their safe return to the UAE," it said.
Dr. Saif Juma Al Dhaheri, Spokesman of the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority, NCEMA; said the UAE decided to modify the timings of the National Disinfection Program to be from 8 pm to 6 am.
He said the changes will be effective as of Wednesday and until further notice.
Dhaheri said butchers, mills and cafes should operate from 6 am to 8 pm, while taking into full consideration all relevant preventive measures, including wearing of masks and gloves.
"In light of the growing demand on retail stores during the Eid holiday, food retail stores, cooperatives, groceries, supermarkets and pharmacies will continue to work 24/7 during the National Disinfection Program," he added.
As for commercial centers and malls; Dhaheri also said they will open from 9 am to 7 pm effective Ramadan 27, noting that they are to announce new opening hours for malls after Eid al-Fitr holiday that marks the end of the holy fasting month.