THE UAE REOPENS TO THE WORLD: Three exhibitions — the International Defence Exhibition (Idex) and calligraphy exhibition in Abu Dhabi and Gulfood in Dubai — are testimony to the success of how the UAE has turned around rapidly from the challenges brought about last year with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. With on-site, in-attendance events once again opening up in the country, it is a message that we are again open to the world. The UAE’s measures to control the pandemic have borne fruit and vaccinations are quickly reaching the desired targets. It is hoped that others learn from this experience. [COMMENT BY: Somshankar Bandyopadhyay, Assistant Editor]