Covid-19 in UAE: Pakistanis seeking to go back reach 20,000

Dubai - As reported earlier, around 5,000 people had registered by Saturday afternoon.

The number of Pakistani nationals who want to go back to home country increased to 20,000 on Sunday, said Ahmed Amjad Ali, consul-general of Pakistan in Dubai.

"Yes, almost 20,000 people have registered so far on the digital platforms announced by the Consulate General of Pakistan, Dubai. We are only collecting the data of Pakistanis stranded here now due to Covid-19 impact," he said.

As reported by Khaleej Times earlier, around 5,000 people had registered by Saturday afternoon.

"Consulate and embassy are talking with the Pakistani government and relevant airlines on how to transport these people when airlines have been grounded and there is a lockdown in the countries," Ali told Khaleej Times on Sunday.

Consulate General of Pakistan, Dubai, on Friday asked its nationals in UAE to register if they want to go back when special flights resume. All concerned people were requested to fill the form and send their details on WhatsApp number 0097156-3962911 or email it to parepdubai@mofa.gov.pk.

Ali reiterated that priority will be given to people whose visit visas have been expired or visas have been cancelled or other urgent Emergency and medical cases.       

-waheedabbas@khaleejtimes.com

• Pakistan