From the Editors: Dubai introduces mask permits

MASK EXEMPTION PERMITS-NO ROOM FOR MISUSE: Dubai’s introduction of permits allowing certain categories of residents to seek an exemption from wearing masks is welcome. There may be many who are tempted to apply for the exemption. However, a Dubai Health Authority has set up a special office that will evaluate each application which must necessarily include a medical report confirming that the applicant suffers from a problem that is aggravated by masks. The fool-proof system that has been put in place by the authorities will ensure there is no misuse. [COMMENT BY: Sharmila Dhal, UAE Editor]

NAGORNO-KARABAKH DEAL FIRST STEP TO RESOLVE ISSUE PERMANENTLY: Armenia, Azerbaijan and Russia signed a deal to end the 45-day war in the Nagorno-Karabakh region. While there have been no outright winners, Azerbaijan has clearly emerged on top, making significant territorial gains, given its dramatic use of state-of-the-art drones against Armenian separatists. Russian peacekeepers will be deployed along the frontline in Nagorno-Karabakh and the corridor between the regionrmanently in line with international agreements. After remaining mostly dormant for decades, the issue led to a sudden full-blown war. This could happen again if a permanent solution is not found. [COMMENT BY: Omar Shariff, International Editor]

COVID-19 VACCINE RESULTS BRING HOPE: The news that Pfizer Inc's experimental COVID-19 vaccine is more than 90% effective based on initial trial results, has been welcomed by scientists, public health officials and the general public. It is a major victory against a virus that has killed more than a million people and battered the world's economy. But mass roll-outs will not happen overnight and several vaccines will be needed to meet global needs. WHO estimates that 70 per cent of the world’s population must be inoculated to break transmission of the virus. In short, a return to normal life will take time and there are many questions that remain unanswered, like how long the vaccine will provide protection. For now, the good news is that there is light at the end of the gloomy tunnel. [COMMENT BY: Alex Abraham, Senior Associate Editor]

CURTAINS COME DOWN ON IPL 2020 TODAY: The IPL cricket carnival, which captivated a global audience for nearly two months, comes to an end in Dubai today. Mumbai Indians, the four-time champions, will up against a rejuvenated Delhi Capitals in the title-clash at Dubai International Stadium. The final gets underway from 6 pm UAE time. [COMMENT BY: Gautam Bhattacharyya, Senior Associate Editor]

The Indian festival of Diwali can often lead to an excess of food, waste and expenditure. So it’s heartening to see Bollywood celebrities such as Bhumi Pednekar and Karan Johar advocate for a different kind of celebration. Johar has encouraged people to buy local when it comes to gifts and clothes. Riteish Deshmukh has asked people to skip out on bursting crackers (which every year adds to pollution and scares probably millions of animals in homes and on the streets). Pednekar will be gifting plants to her friends. These small gestures all make a difference and can lead to better, more conscious celebrations. [COMMENT BY: Jennifer Barretto, Assistant Editor – Features]