Saudi Gazette report

ABU DHABI — The United Arab Emirates has approved China's Sinopharm COVID-19 vaccine for children between 3 and 17.

In a statement on Monday carried by the UAE's official news agency, WAM, the UAE's Ministry of Health and Prevention said that the approval is based on the results of clinical studies.

"The decision comes after clinical trials and extensive evaluations and is based on the emergency-use authorization and local evaluations," the ministry said.

The ministry recently concluded a trial in Abu Dhabi involving 900 children.

The move comes as part of the UAE's efforts to combat the COVID-19 virus, and an affirmation of its proactive approach to ensure the health and safety of community members, the report added.