Mubasher: The Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE) and the UAE Banks Federation (UBF) have prioritised working remotely for the majority of the banking sector’s workforce, according to the Emirates News Agency (WAM).

Only 30% of those working in critical positions are required to work from the office in banks, exchange houses, and financial institutions.

The move comes in line with efforts to prevent the spread of the new coronavirus (COVID-19) and to ensure the health and safety of employees and customers.

Additionally, banks and exchange houses are allowed by the central bank to reduce working hours and temporary close some branches as of Sunday.

Moreover, the central bank called upon customers to use digital and online channels to process their banking and financial transactions.

It is worth noting that the Emirati Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR) will activate the remote work system for all ministries, authorities, and federal institutions for a renewable period of two weeks, effective Sunday, 29 March 2020.