Easing of COVID-19 restrictions and hybrid working becomes history, our editors comment on the top stories of November 7

EASING OF COVID-19 RESTRICTIONS IS WELCOME NEWS: The removal of almost all COVID-19 related restrictions across the UAE with effect from today is indeed welcome news. The UAE’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic has been exemplary right from the beginning as it is based on real time monitoring and highly informed decisions. Proactive measures and timely interventions effectively ensured that the virus did not spread rampantly. Even the easing of protocols was done gradually with a pulse on the ground. Kudos to the authorities for all their efforts. (By Sharmila Dhal, UAE Editor).

COVID PROTOCOLS ARE BECOMING HISTORY – AND SO ARE WFH AND HYBRID WORKING: Almost all of the protocols associated with COVID-19 have been pulled back by the UAE, leaving only memories of what they were during all these months and years. Nowhere is this most decisively felt than on the face masks, which have been consigned to history (and dust bins). The same going back to the past is in evidence when it comes to working, with a LinkedIn poll finding that UAE employers want their workforce to be visible – and in the offices. The WFH and hybrid working that characterized working is receding into the background. However, employers still need to keep close check on undercurrents – the final word on the future of work has not been done. (By Manoj Nair, Business Editor)

SALAH GIVES LIVERPOOL VITAL WIN: Are Liverpool back to their best after a woefully poor start to the new season? It would appear so what with the way they saw of Tottenham in a 2-1 win last night. Antonio Conte’s side were being tipped for a title challenge thanks to the blistering fashion they began the new campaign but they had struggled for results in recent matches. This was a chance for them to get their season back on track but it was Reds boss Jurgen Klopp who was celebrating at the full time whistle. Mo Salah’s brace had given Liverpool a 2-0 lead but Spurs fought back with Harry Kane reducing the deficit. But the Reds hung on for a vital win and they will now seek to climb the table and get back into the top four. However, leapfrogging current leaders Arsenal may be a step too far. (By Imran Malik, Assistant Sports Editor)

THE PRESSURES ON CELEBRITY KIDS: It’s a well-known phenomenon in the entertainment industry that child stars sometimes grow up to be troubled adults. This is in part due to the pressures that come with being in the public eye at such a young age and working in environments unsuitable for kids. While the tragic death of singer Aaron Carter, who has been in the music industry since he was a child, is yet to be given a cause, his history with addiction shows the toll his life took on him. Other celebrities who’ve talked about the effects of being young stars include Drew Barrymore, Britney Spears and Lindsay Lohan. (By Jennifer Barretto, Assistant Editor – Entertainment)