Coronavirus: Indian citizens deterred from visiting consulate in Dubai

Diplomatic mission asks its citizens to avoid public gatherings

Citizens are being urged not to visit the Indian Consulate in Dubai unless necessary to avoid Covid-19 spread. The National 

Indian citizens are being urged not to visit the country's consulate in Dubai unless absolutely necessary, to help prevent the spread of Covid-19.

On Thursday, the diplomatic mission asked its citizens to be responsible and comply with preventive measures in place against Covid-19, such as avoiding gatherings, wearing face masks and maintaining social distancing.

Indians form the largest expatriate group in the UAE, with a population of about 3.42 million.

On Thursday, the UAE reported the highest number of daily Covid-19 deaths to date, with 18 patients succumbing to the virus. On Friday, there were 12 deaths recorded and 3,307 new infections.

"Members of the Indian community who wish to visit the consulate for any consular services are advised to avoid such visits unless necessary," the consulate tweeted.

"They should, instead, make use of the various electronic platforms offered by the consulate without having to physically visit the office."

Instead of visiting the consulate in person, Indians in the UAE can call the toll-free number 800 46342 or send a WhatsApp message to the number 054 309 0571.

They can also use the PBSK mobile application, or send an email to [e-mail].

The Pakistani consulate in Dubai was closed this week after Covid-19 cases were detected.

The consulate said: "Consulate General of Pakistan in Dubai will remain closed for all consular services from February 9 to February 11 due to some Covid-19 cases and for sterilisation process."

Consular services will resume from February 14.

In January, the Philippines consulate in Dubai had to close temporarily for disinfection.