Ministry calls on Emiratis to report when going abroad

Abu Dhabi:  The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says it has launched a national campaign to publicise "my presence", described as an online service provided by the ministry, for Emiratis wishing to travel abroad.

Under the service, those planning to travel abroad are requested to fill in the application forms available on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs official website, or to call the toll-free number 80044444

The move is part of the ministry's keenness to keep in touch with citizens when they are travelling outside the country, to provide them with guidance and any steps that should be taken in a crisis or emergency.

Ambassador Sultan Mohammad Al Ali, Director of the Government Communication and Information Affairs Department in the ministry, said that the month-long campaign has been successful with nearly 29,000 Emiratis registering.

Safety

He said 28,916 Emiratis had registered for the programme during the campaign from May 30 to June 30, indicating that the registration indicated a high level of awareness and responsibility among Emiratis.

He added that the service was not specific to the holiday and vacation season, and that the information applicants provided would be treated in confidence would not be accessed unless it was truly necessary.

He pointed out that the information was vital to determine the number of Emiratis abroad, which enhanced the ministry's ability to communicate with them and ensure their safety during an emergency or crisis.