ABU DHABI — In a major relief to expat laborers and domestic workers in the United Arab Emirates, the authorities have waived the mandatory medical fitness tests for renewal of their residency permits, the state news agency WAM reported late Tuesday. Apart from medical test exemption, their visas will also be renewed automatically. The announcement was made by the UAE's Ministry of Human resources, Ministry of Health and the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (FAIC) as part of precautionary measures to combat coronavirus. The automatic renewal, however, is only applicable for the expatriates working for establishments as well as domestic service workers, according to the announcement. As per the directive, expat workers need not visit medical fitness centers, they should rather make fee payment through payment channels. Once the payment is made, they can continue their stay in the country legally. Meanwhile, the FAIC called upon employers to alert health authorities concerned about in case if they come across any suspected cases of coronavirus. The authority also urged all workers to follow health and precautionary instructions and procedures announced by competent authorities in the country to ensure their safety and the safety of others.
