From the Editors: Return to normality in the UAE

EMPHATIC RETURN TO NORMALITY: That Dubai could handle over 100,000 passengers at Dubai airports on one day (October 11) speaks volumes for many things. For one, it reflects the efficiency with which the authorities are able to deal with the rush, even as they continue to implement COVID-19 safety protocols in an unobtrusive manner. Secondly, it is a signal of the return to normality. Third, it strongly indicates the city’s evergreen appeal among tourists. And last but not least, it is an emphatic statement on the success of the ongoing Expo 2020 Dubai and the resurgence of the economy. [COMMENT BY: Sharmila Dhal, UAE Editor]

STAYING READY FOR DISEASE X: An expert group to study the origins of new pathogens, including SARS-CoV-2, the coronavirus that causes COVID-19, has been set up by the World Health Organisation (WHO). This is important because scientists believe that we could be seeing more epidemics or pandemics in the years ahead. The world must be prepared to react so that we are not held hostage to a virus again. Early planning and help from experts around the world will go a long way in preparing ourselves for 'Disease X.' [COMMENT BY: Alex Abraham, Senior Associate Editor]

KOLKATA KNIGHT RIDERS SURVIVE MASSIVE COLLAPSE TO BEAT DELHI CAPITALS AND REACH FINAL: Tomorrow’s Indian Premier League final between Chennai Super Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders will have a lot to live up to after last night’s incredible Qualifying 2 match. Rahul Tripathi hit a six off the penultimate ball as Kolkata overcame one of the most incredible collapses in the history of franchise cricket to secure a thrilling three-wicket win over Delhi Capitals and reach the final. Chasing 136, Kolkata needed 13 off 25 balls but lost 6 wickets for 7 runs and from out of nowhere, Delhi were sensing victory. And with 6 runs needed from just 2 balls remaining not to mention Ravichandran Ashwin on a hat-trick, it was a nerve-racking end to the game. But just as everyone else inside the Sharjah Cricket Stadium was losing their heads, Tripathi remained the coolest man in the ground as he cleared the ropes with another big shot to spare Kolkata’s blushes in the most dramatic of fashion. We can only hope tomorrow night’s match will be just as exciting. [COMMENT BY: Imran Malik, Assistant Editor]

CELEBRITY SPOTTING IN THE CITY: Madame Tussauds Dubai has opened its doors to the public today and offers audiences a chance to get up close and personal with some of the world’s top celebrities — well, their wax figures. Hollywood actor Tom Cruise, martial arts legend Jackie Chan, Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan, social media star Kylie Jenner and Queen Elizabeth are just some of the people that can been spotted at the prestigious location. Dubai has certainly been on a roll, with high-profile events drawing in local visitors and global tourists. This newest hot spot will only help to cement the city’s status as a popular destination to visit. [COMMENT BY: Jennifer Barretto, Assistant Editor – Features]