The UAE reported 452 new Covid-19 cases on Tuesday, bringing the tally of infections to 744,890.
A further 198 people overcame the virus as the recoveries rose to 738,983.
Two deaths were reported during the 24-hour period, with the toll increasing to 2,154.
The latest cases were detected as a result of an additional 396,090 PCR tests.
More than 107 million tests have been conducted since the outbreak began as part of a comprehensive screening strategy aimed at slowing the spread of the virus.
Daily infections dipped to 48 on December 6 – the lowest since March 30, 2020 – but have risen steadily since.
While infection rates remain relatively low, authorities have urged to public to remain committed to Covid-19 safety measures, such as the wearing of masks and physical distancing, and to receive a third booster shot of a vaccine if eligible.
The UAE has carried out one of the world's most efficient vaccination drives, with more than 91 per cent of the eligible population now fully vaccinated.
Officials have taken steps to ensure continued recovery from the pandemic, particularly in light of the global spread of the Omicron variant.
Last Wednesday, precautionary measures were set out for Christmas and New Year public events, including capacity levels being capped at 80 per cent and a requirement to present a negative result of a PCR test taken within 96 hours.
On the same day, Abu Dhabi announced checks would be reintroduced from Sunday at the border for anyone entering the emirate.
Scanners that can detect signs a person may have coronavirus were introduced at crossing points.
Authorities have also reduced the validity of the Al Hosn green pass from 30 days to 14.
Day 4, Dubai Test: At a glance
Moment of the day Lahiru Gamage appeared to have been hard done by when he had his dismissal of Sami Aslam chalked off for a no-ball. Replays suggested he had not overstepped. No matter. Two balls later, the exact same combination – Gamage the bowler and Kusal Mendis at second slip – combined again to send Aslam back.
Stat of the day Haris Sohail took three wickets for one run in the only over he bowled, to end the Sri Lanka second innings in a hurry. That was as many as he had managed in total in his 10-year, 58-match first-class career to date. It was also the first time a bowler had taken three wickets having bowled just one over in an innings in Tests.
The verdict Just 119 more and with five wickets remaining seems like a perfectly attainable target for Pakistan. Factor in the fact the pitch is worn, is turning prodigiously, and that Sri Lanka’s seam bowlers have also been finding the strip to their liking, it is apparent the task is still a tough one. Still, though, thanks to Asad Shafiq and Sarfraz Ahmed, it is possible.
The specs: 2018 BMW R nineT Scrambler
Price, base / as tested Dh57,000
Engine 1,170cc air/oil-cooled flat twin four-stroke engine
Transmission Six-speed gearbox
Power 110hp) @ 7,750rpm
Torque 116Nm @ 6,000rpm
Fuel economy, combined 5.3L / 100km
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Habibi Funk: An Eclectic Selection Of Music From The Arab World (Habibi Funk)
if you go
The flights Fly Dubai, Air Arabia, Emirates, Etihad, and Royal Jordanian all offer direct, three-and-a-half-hour flights from the UAE to the Jordanian capital Amman. Alternatively, from June Fly Dubai will offer a new direct service from Dubai to Aqaba in the south of the country. See the airlines’ respective sites for varying prices or search on reliable price-comparison site Skyscanner.
The trip
Jamie Lafferty was a guest of the Jordan Tourist Board. For more information on adventure tourism in Jordan see Visit Jordan. A number of new and established tour companies offer the chance to go caving, rock-climbing, canyoning, and mountaineering in Jordan. Prices vary depending on how many activities you want to do and how many days you plan to stay in the country. Among the leaders are Terhaal, who offer a two-day canyoning trip from Dh845 per person. If you really want to push your limits, contact the Stronger Team. For a more trek-focused trip, KE Adventure offers an eight-day trip from Dh5,300 per person.
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South Africa squad
Faf du Plessis (captain), Hashim Amla, Temba Bavuma, Quinton de Kock (wicketkeeper), Theunis de Bruyn, AB de Villiers, Dean Elgar, Heinrich Klaasen (wicketkeeper), Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, Morne Morkel, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi, Vernon Philander and Kagiso Rabada.
MATCH INFO
Uefa Champions League semi-finals, first leg
Liverpool v Roma
When: April 24, 10.45pm kick-off (UAE)
Where: Anfield, Liverpool
Live: BeIN Sports HD
Second leg: May 2, Stadio Olimpico, Rome
HOW TO WATCH
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Stars: Keanu Reeves, Carrie-Anne Moss, Jessica Henwick
Rating:****
