An aerial view of the Burj al-Arab hotel in the Gulf emirate of Dubai, during a government-organised helicopter tour. ― AFP pic
Embarking from Emirates flights, where cabin crew work in gowns and face shields, the first visitors arrived on Tuesday to be greeted by temperature checks and nasal swabs, in a city better known for skyscrapers, luxury resorts and over-the-top attractions. “People were worried people today are really searching heavily for their next holiday and that is a very positive sign and I see a very strong comeback.”
“Once we do get to the other side, as we start to talk about next year and later on, we see very much a quick uptick. Because once things normalise people will go back to travel again,” he said.The reopening comes as the United Arab Emirates, made up of seven sheikhdoms, including Dubai, battles stubbornly high coronavirus infection rates that have climbed to more than 53,500 with 328 deaths.
“The first thing I'm thinking is ― how is the health care system, do they have it under control? Do I trust the government there?” Al Marri said.