Dubai: Some 101 Pakistanis stranded at airports in the UAE were flown back home on a special flight from Dubai.
Pakistan Consulate General in Dubai arranged the flight in coordination with the Flydubai and Emirates airlines in Dubai. “We are thankful to Flydubai, Emirates and the Dubai International Airport for operating a special flight to evacuate the Pakistani passengers stranded at the airports,” Pakistan Consul General Ahmed Amjad Ali told Gulf News. He himself surprised with operation at the airport and provided the stranded passengers with food, medicines and even accommodation for some.
According to Consul General, a total of 101 passengers flew on a special Flydubai flight on Monday night from Dubai to Islamabad. They included 73 passengers stranded at the Dubai Airport and five who were stranded at the Abu Dhabi Airport. Some 26 Pakistanis visitors where were stranded in the city were also allowed to board the special flight.
Consul General Ali said that the passengers who were stranded at the airport since March 21, had come from different countries to Dubai but got struck here after Pakistan shut down its flight operation for 15 days. The Consulate officials came to their help and provided them with all the possible help.
The Consul General has also advised Pakistani community in the UAE to follow the UAE government’s instructions and stay home to prevent the spread of coronavirus.
He reiterated that the consulate and the embassy are open for emergency services only. “ Do not visit the diplomatic missions as passport and ID card renewal sections are closed. Only those who need any emergency service can contact us,” he made it clear.
Meanwhile, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's office has tweeted thanking the UAE authorities for operating the special flight. "We would liek to thank our friends at Emirates who, in coordination with flydubai, facilitated the return of our stranded citizens in the UAE," PMO office tweeted.
