KT edit: Dubai a healthy and happy city for the global traveller

Dubai's swift recovery from the pandemic has given it a shot of confidence to roll out the red carpet for international tourists before other global destinations. It is a testament to the city's resilience and state of well being in these uncertain times. Dubai has cleared the health test and will remain a hospitality hotspot for people from all over the world, is the clear and endearing message. There's a certain spunk, an attitude, a never-say-never spirit that makes this metropolis special. The odds are turned into opportunity here and the naysayers have been silenced with its rapid rise from this crisis. While many cities are still grappling with the spread of Covid-19, Dubai will "make visitors feel at home" this summer. So how did this metropolis make it happen when others fear to step out of their safe zones as the disease continues to infect people across the world?
It stems from a belief system, a philosophy that shuns the herd mentality, that which is practical and is inspired by the leadership. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, has led by example during this crisis. When things look down, Dubai looks higher and builds on its achievements. A young city, it continues to learn from global best practices, it is open to influences, and applies the learning in its system of government. The health strategy was well articulated at the start of the pandemic and was implemented quickly. Clusters of infection were detected and contained early. The surveillance system kicked into gear and the health facilities were ramped up to deal with any emergency. People were actively involved with health and government officials to bring cases under control.
The results have been spectacular, and the revival grand, thanks to the visionary leadership that remained focused and upbeat on the city's potential as a business and leisure destination. Dubai continued to persevere during the crisis and challenges were creatively surmounted with help from a rapid decision-making process. Officials in different departments were empowered and they kept the system running digitally till the time was ripe to reopen the economy in a measured manner, ensuring all safety protocols were in place. Last year, Dubai welcomed a record 16.73 million tourists, a growth of 5.1 per cent over the previous year. The pandemic has hit tourism across the world, including Dubai this year, but the emirate is playing to its strengths with its advanced aviation and tourism infrastructure. It is prepped up and remains positive in its ability to soar again and tower over other global cities.