Galadari Brothers employees get the COVID-19 jab

Hundreds of staff members from the group’s companies — including Khaleej Times, Galadari Ice Cream, Galadari Trucks and Heavy Equipment Co. Ltd, and Galadari Automobiles Company (GAL) — turned up at the KT head office in Al Quoz for the vaccine.

“Health is paramount to us at Galadari Brothers. Today, vaccination is not a choice but a responsibility. When we are still in the middle of a pandemic, it’s imperative that everyone takes the vaccine to help the world beat the virus. I am proud that Galadari Brothers was able to conduct a vaccination drive for all its staff and their families,” said Suhail Galadari, Co-chairman of Galadari Brothers.

“The visionary leaders of the nation have pledged to inoculate the entire population, and it’s a great feeling that we have done our little part,” he added.

Mohammed Galadari, Co-chairman of Galadari Brothers, said that with every UAE resident vaccinated, the nation gets closer to its goal of beating Covid-19.

“When the wise leaders of the nation go out of their way to protect not only their own citizens but poorer people across the word, we cannot stand idle. The vaccine shields not only its recipients but help creates herd immunity that would ultimately defeat the virus. I am proud Galadari Brothers was part of the national campaign to inoculate the entire UAE population,” he said.

Mohamed Yahya Kazi, Director and Group CEO of Galadari Brothers, took the lead and got the first jab in the morning.

“I consider myself fortunate to get the first vaccine. It is important from a personal point of view, as well as from a social responsibility perspective. Getting vaccinated is an act of consideration towards your family, colleagues and the community around you,” he said.

The vaccination drive was a historic moment for the company, Kazi said.

“We, at Galadari Brothers, always believe that we should be aligned with the vision of the country’s leadership, and this vaccination drive is proof of our commitment to the leadership and the health and prosperity of our nation. We are forever grateful to the leaders of this country for making this vaccination drive possible. We are proud to be part of the nation’s campaign to get the entire population protected from the pandemic.”

Long lines were visible since morning in front of the two special tents set up at the KT office. Staff volunteers guided employees from the registration counters to the vaccination room, ensuring that social distancing was maintained throughout a hassle-free experience. A special vaccination room was set up for female employees.

GAL CEO Axel Dreyer, who took the vaccine, said it is a privilege to have access to free vaccine.

“We are proud of this country and the visionary leadership of the UAE. I want to thank our Board of Directors and GCEO for this great initiative. The vaccination is not only important for each individual, it is also a contribution to the great community we are living in. It is our obligation to contribute to the UAE’s objective of becoming one of the first countries globally to be inoculated.”

Several staff members who took the jab said they now feel safer against the deadly virus.

Tanvi Deshpande, assistant property manager at Galadari Real Estate, said she believed in the efficacy of the vaccine, without a doubt. “After taking the jab, I feel safer. I can travel without worrying. I am thankful that I have this opportunity.”

Ashraf Mohammed, who works at the HR and training section at Galadari Ice Cream, said he is happy that even his wife and two daughters could get vaccinated.

“It shows how much the company cares about its employees and their families. Vaccination is the only solution to fight Covid. We all must take it.”

Emirati Khaijeh Abdollah Kamouj, a receptionist at Khaleej Times, acknowledged that taking the vaccine is a social responsibility. “It is important for me to be safe. But it is more important to protect my family and also the people I come in contact with. This is a noble initiative by the company and I did not want to miss it.”

The quick and hassle-free procedure was a great incentive for many employees, like Syed Sajid Hussain, a mechanic who has been with the company for the last 17 years.

“There are long queues at many vaccination centres. It is a great blessing that we get to take the jab at the company premises itself.”