With the COVID-19 pandemic well into its second year, it is no longer realistic to predict when the pandemic will end. In fact, pandemics are known to transition to endemicity, with a more equivocal and steady state coexistence of the viral agent and its host. However, whilst awaiting that, businesses must run, offices must work, factories must manufacture, constructions must continue, students must learn, and families must reclaim lost elements that contributed to their quality of life, including meeting family members sequestered in different locations. Travel and hospitality sectors must regain momentum gradually and carefully. In short, life must carry on within the paradigm of the “new normal.”

Each country has its own priorities. For the UAE, a major initiative was postponed on account of the uncertain situation in 2020 – the World Expo! With the hard work put in to implement exemplary public health measures and a robust, country-wide vaccination program, the UAE’s World Expo, to be held at Dubai, is on the horizon. Now to commence a year after the original start date, all efforts are in full swing to make it memorable for Dubai, for the UAE and for the millions of visitors who will attend from all over the world. Travel has already opened up; physical conferences are being held; the hospitality industry is on the upswing; schools and universities are open…and there is optimism all around. However, the national leaders and authorities are cautious and aware that utmost vigilance must be maintained. This entails ensuring that the entire infrastructure is geared to function in an ultra-safe mode, remaining careful, alert, nimble and efficient, on the back of an unshakeable national healthcare system.

Guidelines from national health bodies, OSHA (USA and Europe) and other agencies have already laid the foundation for Return to Work. Whereas some modifications in day-to-day movements may be expected in order to accommodate changing trends in the key metrics that are dynamically tracked through surveillance activities, the move to restore the normal machineries of life, living and livelihood within community segments continues.

All sectors have worked hard to implement safety for those they support and serve – be they administrators, students, employees, workers, members, visitors, travellers, tourists or guests.