The Dubai Healthcare City Authority (DHCA), the governing body of Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC), on Monday announced a relief package for its free zone community.

This is in line with the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to alleviate financial challenges faced by various sectors due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

DHCA's relief package benefits various business segments in the free zone, and considers three broad components - waivers and discounts for directly-impacted segments, additional benefits for businesses operating in DHCA-owned properties, and waivers and discounts in regulatory fees for hospitals, clinics, education providers, research institutions, retail stores, hotels, F&B outlets, consultancies, and support services among businesses.

Segments that are considered directly impacted include certain outpatient clinics, education providers, hospitality and support services. These segments have had to close or significantly reduce operations to comply with national precautionary and preventive measures, resulting in reduced revenues and customer footfall.

Businesses located in DHCA properties will benefit from conditional rental waivers for three months, deferred rental payments for a stipulated period, and reduced fees and waivers for certain services.

In summary, the package offers 25-100 per cent discount on commercial and clinical fees for all directly-impacted segments, and 25-50 per cent discount on commercial and clinical fees for all other segments excluding pharmacies and supermarkets.

"Our partners in the DHCC community are our most valuable assets, contributing to the Emirate's healthcare capacity, and globally positioning Dubai as one of the most business-friendly cities and preferred investment destinations. In line with Dubai Government directives to support investors and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), we are making concerted efforts to support business continuity and stimulate economic recovery and growth," said Jamal Abdulsalam, CEO, DHCA.

Speaking on the consideration extended to directly-impacted segments, Abdulsalam said, "These segments are facing revenue losses and need respite from operational expenses. We looked at ways to help these segments better manage their operating costs by introducing waivers and reduced fees."

As per applicable terms of the DHCA relief package, the reduced regulatory fees can be availed for a period of three months with the exception of certain fees related to commercial licenses and clinical operating permits, which can be availed until the end of 2020. DHCA's Business Relief Package excludes pharmacies and supermarkets which have been following regular operations.

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