As the deadly coronavirus continues to spread at an alarming rate, authorities in Dubai are taking steps to ensure the most vulnerable segment of the population, the elderly, are well taken care of during the pandemic.

The Dubai Police and the Community Development Authority (CDA) announced on Monday the launch of a new service dedicated to the senior citizens and residents in Dubai, promising to offer rapid response to requests for assistance.

Dubbed “Secure Together,” the service will prioritise requests from seniors to Dubai Police’s command and control centre. The response team will cater to requests for essential support and services, including medical aid, disinfection and sanitation services at the homes of the elderly, the Dubai Government Media office said in a statement

“The initiative seeks to respond to their (senior citizens, both nationals and expatriates) urgent requirements in this critical period during which we have an even greater responsibility to take care of this vulnerable segment of society,” lieutenant-general Abdullah Al Marri, commander-in-chief of Dubai Police and commissioner general of the Citizen Services Pillar of Dubai Council, said.

“Serving the community and working constantly to ensure the safety and wellbeing of people are some of Dubai Police’s key duties. We will spare no effort to fulfill these responsibilities,” he added.

The UAE confirmed 102 new cases of coronavirus infections on Sunday, taking the total number of infections in the country to 570.

The UAE has implemented a series of precautionary measures to stem the spread of the coronavirus. Schools, malls, cafes and restaurants have been shut, while all passenger flights have been temporarily cancelled, as residents are being urged to stay indoors or observe social distancing.

Ahmad Julfar, director-general of the CDA in Dubai, said that the service is part of integrated efforts being made to curb the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic and protect the most vulnerable segment of the population.

The Dubai Police and CDA invited senior citizens and residents to register for the service by visiting the Dubai Police website.

Ambulance and healthcare services will also be provided, in cooperation with the relevant authorities and preventive service providers.

Senior citizens and residents, or those responsible for their care, can contact the CDA call centre on 800 2121 around the clock. 

Calls will be transferred to the command and control centre of the Dubai Police to complete the registration process.

(Writing by Gerard Aoun; editing by Cleofe Maceda)

( Gerard.Aoun@refinitiv.com )

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