By Tamara Abueish

DUBAI -- The United Arab Emirates is “infinitely” prepared to supply everyone in the country with food and medicine, says Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed, amid fears about a shortage of supplies around the world due to coronavirus.

“I’d like to reassure every citizen and resident of the UAE that our country is infinitely able to supply everyone with all the food and medicine they could ever need. We are well prepared to face any challenge that arises,” the crown prince said.

The crown prince also sent his “sincerest appreciation and gratitude” to health workers in the country who are “stand[ing] in the frontline of our defenses. "We owe them a great debt, and we will never forget their service."

He also advised all citizens and residents to take the necessary precautions to ensure their safety.

The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in the UAE stood at 98 as of Sunday, according to the ministry of Health.

The first reported case of the virus was detected in Dubai on Jan. 29 in a family of four who came from China.

Since then the UAE has taken several precautionary measures, which include suspending flights to virus-hit countries, closing schools and universities, and banning restaurants and cafes from serving shisha. ‑‑ Al Arabiya English