Coronavirus: UAE exempts hand sanitisers, masks and gloves from VAT

Hind Al Soulia - Riyadh - The purchase of hand sanitisers, face masks and gloves in the Emirates will be exempt from VAT, the UAE Cabinet announced on Tuesday.

Medical equipment used in the treatment of patients with Covid-19, including disposable medical suits, respirators and goggles, will also not be subject to the 5 per cent tax.

The decision was made during a Cabinet meeting chaired by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, at Qasr Al Watan in Abu Dhabi. It aims to support the country's health sector during the pandemic, the Cabinet said.

On Tuesday, Abdulrahman Al Owais, Minister of Health and Prevention, said the move would help hospitals stock up on vital medical supplies to treat patients and protect themselves from the virus.

The Cabinet also issued a resolution on implementing a federal law concerning Medically-Assisted Reproduction. The resolution underlines the objectives of the law, responsibilities of licensed fertilisation centres, licensing requirements, genetic testing and requirements for gamete handling and storage, reported state news agency Wam.

Earlier in the meeting, Sheikh Mohammed spoke to teachers and pupils from different schools across the country through a web conference, to mark the start of the academic year this week.

He said the UAE's achievements since its establishment stemmed from education.

"Our accomplishments and progress since the foundation of our beloved country, started from schools. With education, we shall continue our journey towards the future."

He also addressed the challenges facing schools that reopened for in-person classes for the first time on Sunday since March.

"The country exerts unwavering efforts to develop the educational system despite all circumstances," Sheikh Mohammed said.

"The previous school year is the best example of the strength of our educational system and its ability to continue without interruption in the most difficult circumstances."