UAE donation to boost PPE production in UK

The UAE has donated 6.6 tonnes of material to the UK to enable the country boost its production of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) items.

The shipment, which arrived at Heathrow Airport on Friday, will enable the UK to manufacture millions of face masks.

There is currently a global shortage for the melt blown fabric, an essential component of surgical face masks, but the UAE's supply chain management ensures that the domestic supply is not exhausted and an export restriction is in place.

"We are delighted to be able to assist Britain, one of our closest friends and allies. The UAE is committed to helping fight COVID-19 wherever it can and has donated aid to 63 countries around the world," said UAE Ambassador to the UK, Mansoor Abulhoul.

In its efforts to help the global fight against COVID-19, the UAE has sent more than 716 tonnes of medical aid to 63 countries and assisted more than 716,000 medical professionals world over.

In April, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, donated 60 tonnes of medical aid to the UK.