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UAE Reports Four New Cases of Monkeypox

A test tube labelled "Monkeypox virus positive" is seen in this illustration taken May 22, 2022. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration
A test tube labelled "Monkeypox virus positive" is seen in this illustration taken May 22, 2022. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration
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UAE Reports Four New Cases of Monkeypox

A test tube labelled "Monkeypox virus positive" is seen in this illustration taken May 22, 2022. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration
A test tube labelled "Monkeypox virus positive" is seen in this illustration taken May 22, 2022. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration

The United Arab Emirates recorded four more cases of monkeypox, the health ministry said on Wednesday, raising the toll to eight.

"Monkeypox is a viral disease, but usually a self-limited one, if compared to COVID-19. It's mostly transmitted to humans through close contact with an infected person or animal, including bodily fluids, and respiratory droplets, or with material contaminated with the virus. It can also be passed to the baby in the womb,” the ministry said in a statement.

It urged the community to follow appropriate preventive measures and careful precautions while traveling and to stay safer in large crowds and avoid risky behaviors.

It also reassured the community that the UAE health authorities are taking all necessary measures, including investigation, examination of contacts, and monitoring their health.

Moreover, the ministry stressed that it is cooperating with other health authorities in implementing an epidemiological surveillance system, in accordance with the highest global practices, to ensure sustainable efficiency and community protection from communicable diseases, and rapid detection, as well as work to limit the spread of all diseases and viruses, including monkeypox.

The UAE recorded three cases of monkeypox in late May, nearly a week after announcing the Gulf state's first case of the virus in a young woman who traveled from West Africa.

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Makkah Markets Open their Doors as Pilgrims Prepare to Depart

Al-Aziziyah markets are surrounded by pilgrims’ hotels from all directions (SPA)
Al-Aziziyah markets are surrounded by pilgrims’ hotels from all directions (SPA)
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Makkah Markets Open their Doors as Pilgrims Prepare to Depart

Al-Aziziyah markets are surrounded by pilgrims’ hotels from all directions (SPA)
Al-Aziziyah markets are surrounded by pilgrims’ hotels from all directions (SPA)

As pilgrims near the completion of their Hajj rituals, many have begun spending their remaining time visiting Makkah’s renowned markets.

Major shopping centers and popular marketplaces are preparing to receive large crowds of pilgrims from around the world. With their departure approaching, many are eager to buy gifts and keepsakes for their families and friends, items that serve as tangible memories of their time in the holy city.

Asharq Al-Awsat took a tour through the markets of the Al-Aziziyah neighborhood, a central area situated between the holy sites and the Grand Mosque. Its prime location makes it a preferred hub for Hajj groups and delegations, which has resulted in crowded markets and bustling currency exchange offices.

Ahmed Al-Jaafari, a shopkeeper in one of Al-Aziziyah’s stores, welcomed his customers with warmth and hospitality. He shared that the most sought-after souvenirs include prayer beads (subha), prayer rugs, miniature models of holy landmarks, decorative engravings, gold jewelry, rings, dates, Qurans with translations, and locally made perfumes.

Hajj Muwafaq Mohammed, dressed in traditional attire from southern Baghdad, told Asharq Al-Awsat that he made a point of visiting the markets early to buy useful items and meaningful keepsakes.

“I’ve traveled to many countries and always explore local markets,” he said, “but in Makkah, I’m especially captivated by each item and souvenir, as they carry the scent and soul of this sacred place.”

At a currency exchange center on Al-Aziziyah Street, lined with hotels accommodating pilgrims from across the globe, long queues formed as visitors in colorful traditional clothing exchanged their foreign currencies for Saudi riyals. The scene reflected the cultural diversity of the global Muslim community and the excitement of those preparing for a final shopping experience before departing.

Currency exchange offices throughout Makkah are seeing a steady stream of visitors, many coming from nearby hotels and accommodations.

Ayman Al-Mohammedi, an employee at one of the Al-Aziziyah exchange centers, explained that they are equipped to handle over 60 foreign currencies. “Pilgrims arrive with money from their home countries and look to exchange it for Saudi riyals,” he said. “The Hajj season significantly boosts activity in the currency exchange sector.”

He added that Makkah’s currency exchange centers increased their preparedness well in advance of the Hajj season, enhancing their capacity to provide efficient services for buying, selling, and trading foreign currencies across the city.