Amid the rising numbers of COVID-19 cases in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Burj Khalifa flashed an important message to encourage the public to practice self-isolation and stay inside their homes.
https://twitter.com/BurjKhalifa/status/1242143282202923008
On March 23, the world’s tallest skyscraper lit up with a plea that reads: “Stay home”. And with Dubai being a melting pot city, it was also flashed in different languages—including Filipino.
On Twitter, HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, addressed the global pandemic that is “worsening at an exponential pace” and the need to “urgently recognise the seriousness of the new reality we live in”.
Everyday, we see the global situation around COVID-19 worsening at an exponential pace. However, thanks to the tireless and incredible efforts of our emergency response team, we have managed to protect ourselves and our communities till date.
— Hamdan bin Mohammed (@HamdanMohammed) March 23, 2020
Going forth, maintaining this status needs us all to urgently recognise the seriousness of the new reality we live in. We (Dubai) are not immune.
This pandemic is a very real threat to each and every one of us, our families and friends.
— Hamdan bin Mohammed (@HamdanMohammed) March 23, 2020
The only way to guarantee that we safeguard the wellbeing of our loved ones is to ACT now, TOGETHER and WITHOUT exceptions. Stay Home.
Social Distancing is NOT a matter of choice. it is a critical DEMAND from every one of us, in order for our city and our society to remain safe.— Hamdan bin Mohammed (@HamdanMohammed) March 23, 2020
Remember that we are only as strong as our weakest link. We’re here for you, and trust that we can count on your commitment to act responsibly.#STAYHOME
— Hamdan bin Mohammed (@HamdanMohammed) March 23, 2020
The UAE Ministry of Interior and the National Emergency and Crisis and Disasters Management Authority is also urging everyone to “stay at home, and to only venture out for essential work, emergencies, or to collect groceries and medicines”. Authorities are also aiming to limit the spread of Covid-19 with wide-sweeping closures and new regulations across the country.
Like many skyscrapers around the world, Burj Khalifa is known for lighting up and flashing messages of solidarity during a local or global crisis. Recently, it also lit up in the colors of China, Italy, and Spain to show their support amid their battle with the coronavirus outbreak.