by BERNAMA

ABU DHABI — The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation has suspended the issuance of all types of labour permits, including for drivers and domestic workers, effective Thursday (March 19) until further notice, reported Emirates News Agency (WAM).

The decision exempts intra-corporate transfer and EXPO 2020 permits.

The Ministry said the move has been taken in coordination with the National Emergency and Crisis and Disasters Management Authority as part of the precautionary measures taken by the UAE to curb the spread of COVID-19.

Meanwhile, WAM reported that UAE has announced a temporary suspension on issuing visas upon arrival for holders of exempted passports, effective 01:00 (UAE local time) on Thursday as part of the precautionary and preventive measures adopted by the country to contain the spread of COVID-19.

Holders of diplomatic passports are exempted from this decision, noted the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship in a statement. 

 In a related matter, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation issued a statement notifying Emirati nationals not to travel abroad, effective immediately, and until further notice.

The move comes as part of the UAE’s efforts to curb the spread of the coronavirus pandemic and ensure the safety and well-being of citizens, the statement read.