Update on Flights to Pakistan: More Than 5,000 Registrations from UAE
Update on Flights to Pakistan: More Than 5,000 Registrations from UAE: A notable surge has been recorded in the number of registrations on the online platform introduced by the Consulate General of Pakistan in Dubai, with over 5,000 Pakistanis in the UAE expressing their intent to return to their home country. According to a senior official from the Pakistani government quoted by local media on Saturday, the figures continue to rise steadily.
Ahmed Amjad Ali, the Consul-General of Pakistan in Dubai, emphasized the importance of gathering data on Pakistanis facing difficulties in the UAE, particularly those who have lost jobs or whose visas have expired. He stated, "We are compiling information on Pakistanis stranded here so that we can prioritize those deserving individuals who have experienced job losses or visa expirations when the special flights resume between the two countries. The number of registrations has surpassed 5,000 and is increasing every hour."
Ali clarified that priority will be given to those facing visa expirations and job losses, as well as individuals dealing with emergencies, such as those accompanying deceased family members. He mentioned that people on annual leave, while expressing a desire to return home, may not be the primary focus for repatriation at this time.
The Consulate General of Pakistan in Dubai issued a call on Friday urging its nationals to register for travel to Pakistan when special flights become available. Interested individuals were instructed to complete a form and submit their details via WhatsApp at 0097156-3962911 or email to [email protected].
Currently, approximately 1.6 million Pakistanis reside and work in various capacities in the UAE. Like citizens of other nations, thousands of Pakistanis find themselves stranded in the UAE following the suspension of flights due to the efforts to contain the spread of the coronavirus.
Ali revealed that both the embassy and consulates will play a role in the repatriation process, and the collected data will prove invaluable in ensuring that those with urgent needs are prioritized for return.
When asked about the anticipated number of registrations in the coming days, Ali acknowledged the difficulty in predicting due to various factors, including individuals seeking to return for their annual leave. He emphasized the challenge of providing accurate numbers at this point in time.
Regarding the resumption of special flights, Ali cited the volatile global situation surrounding the coronavirus as a hindrance to revealing a specific date.
In a related development, the UAE government recently extended the suspension of entry for all valid visa holders in the country for an additional two weeks. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation urged individuals outside the country with valid UAE residence visas to register on Twajudi for a streamlined return in emergency cases.
Highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by Pakistani nationals in the UAE, Ali mentioned a food distribution charity drive initiated on March 26. The consulate, utilizing its own resources and support from Pakistani philanthropists, distributed aid to over 2,600 individuals who had been adversely affected by company layoffs. Ali acknowledged the uncertainties surrounding the extension of this initiative, dependent on factors such as philanthropic support and the resumption of special flights.