Abu Dhabi hospitals treating more than 100 patients hurt in gas blast

Officials working to allow visits from family and embassy staff where necessary

The aftermath of the blast in Khalidiya, which killed two people and injured more than 100. Photo: Abu Dhabi Police

Emergency crews help the injured outside a block of flats. Photo: Abu Dhabi Police

Debris littered the streets after the blast. Photo: Abu Dhabi Police

Smoke rises from the roof of a building in Khalidiya. Police said a gas cylinder had exploded. The National

Abu Dhabi hospitals have treated more than 100 people who were injured in a gas blast and are working on allowing visits for family members, officials said on Tuesday.

An explosion in a restaurant in Khalidiya on Monday killed two people and injured 120, initial reports said.

Abu Dhabi Department of Health said it was in touch with the families of the patients and that embassy personnel would, where necessary, facilitate their visits to hospitals.

Fifty-six suffered moderate injuries and another 64 had minor injuries, officials said.

“All injured cases that have resulted from the gas cylinder incident … have received all necessary medical care in the emirate's healthcare facilities,” the health authority said.

The Department of Health extended its condolences to the families of the dead.

India's Embassy in Abu Dhabi confirmed to The National that one of the blast victims was an Indian citizen.

Pakistan's embassy in Abu Dhabi later confirmed to The National the other victim was a Pakistani citizen.

A spokeswoman said the embassy was "working with relevant authorities for more details".

Police said on Monday that shops and six buildings were damaged in the blast, which happened around 1pm.

Residents reported a loud explosion that shook buildings in the area.

The blast occurred in a low-rise residential building near the Shining Towers complex, a local landmark, after which the police cordoned off several roads.

Emergency treatment at a government hospital is covered in Abu Dhabi even for people who do not have health insurance, but they should have a residency visa.