Coronavirus: Indian, Philippine missions in Dubai gear up to fight Covid-19

Dubai - The Philippines missions have started thermal scanning of visitors, while Indian missions have asked people to maintain adequate distance in queues.

Diplomatic missions in the UAE are gearing up to combat the spread of the Covid-19 coronavirus epidemic. While the Philippine embassy has installed thermal scanners in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, the Indian missions have asked visitors to maintain a safe distance.

Starting Sunday, March 8, all Filipinos who will be coming to the Philippine embassy in Abu Dhabi and Philippine consulate in Dubai will have to undergo thermal scanning, authorities announced on Saturday. Those whose temperature is higher than 37 degree Celsius will not be allowed entry and will have to return at a later date. They will also be asked to see a doctor, according to an advisory issued by the Philippine mission.

Once inside the embassy and the consulate, those who will show symptoms like coughing or sneezing will be asked to wear face masks. Only those with official business and appointments will be allowed inside the embassy and consulate, the advisory added. "Accompanying family members (except minor children), friends, employers and escorts will have to wait outside," said an official at the Philippines mission.

Meanwhile, Neeraj Agrawal, Consul Press, Information, and Culture at the Consulate General of India in Dubai said, "The consulate has taken several precautionary measures for the consulate visitors and staff. We have procured a few face masks and hand sanitizers have been installed all over the consulate premises."

Agarwal said there has been a slight drop in the number of visitors at the consulate, and the visitors are being asked to maintain adequate distance between each other while acquiring services. He added, "The same precautionary measures have been taken at BLS International in Bur Dubai, the consulate's visa and passport office, and IVS Global in Oud Metha, a specialised consular services and attestation outsourcing entity."

The Indian consulate is also exploring the possibility of acquiring thermal scanners. Furthermore, the consul reiterated there are no travel bans to and from India, owing to the Covid-19 scare. "There are no travel restrictions to and from India. As per instructions from the UAE government, individuals may have to undergo a medical check-up if they show symptoms," added Agarwal. The Consulate has advised all Indian expats to keep a close eye on its website, and Twitter handles for updates and advisories.

Twajudi service for Emirati citizens

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MOFAIC) in the UAE has urged all its citizens to register themselves on the online Twajudi platform. The service facilitates the process of communication with its citizens in cases of crises and emergencies. Citizens can also coordinate their return to the UAE.

dhanusha@khaleejtimes.com

• Dubai