UAE rains: Private sector, government employers urged to let staff work from home

The UAE’s disaster management authority has called on private and government sector employees to let their employees work from home as unstable weather conditions peak in the country. The National Emergency, Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) has recommended that remote work be activated for employees, except those whose presence is vital to carry out their jobs or those involved in recovery efforts.

However, this is just a recommendation, with the decision left to the authorities concerned.

This came as the UAE raised its “alert level” and enhanced its “readiness” to deal with the foul weather.

Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels.

After the previous storm that took place on April 16, authorities are diligently studying the effects of such weather conditions on certain areas in the country.

The authority has announced that the UAE will close all roads leading to valleys, flooded areas and dams. Residents have been told to stay away from mountain and desert areas, and the sea, over the next few days.

The NCM has said that the upcoming unstable weather will not be as intense as the one on April 16, when the country was pounded with a year’s worth of rains in a single day. Hundreds of flights were cancelled then, while schools went online for days after as multiple areas and streets remained flooded. Public transport services were disrupted, while some motorists were forced to abandon their vehicles on flooded roads as their engines died.

The NCEMA has urged residents to adhere to all guidelines and instructions issued by the authorities concerned.

• UAE: Unstable weather this week will be 'less severe' than last month, says NCM