A view of the Indian Consulate in Dubai. File

Gulf Today, Staff Reporter

Indian Consulate in Dubai has issued a statement advising Indians not to visit the consulate, unless an emergency situation due to rising COVID-19 cases in the UAE.

Since the beginning of 2021, there is an increase in the number of COVID-19 cases.

The UAE has issued strict COVID-19 guidelines for residents and visitors to curb the spread of virus.

Hefty fines have been imposed for violators of the COVID-19 rules.

The consulate said, “There has been an increase in number of daily COVID cases reported in the UAE during the last few weeks. Being the largest expatriate community, it is the responsibility of all the Indian nationals residing in UAE to strictly comply with COVID preventive measures and guidelines issued by the UAE health authorities from time to time such as wearing face masks at all times, maintaining social distancing, avoiding public gatherings etc.

“Members of the Indian community who wish to visit the Consulate for any consular services are advised to avoid such visits unless absolutely necessary. They should, instead, make use of the various electronic platforms offered by the Consulate without having to physically visit the office.

“Following modes of communication with the Consulate are available to the general public for their convenience:

“For all enquires, individuals can:
a. Call 24X7 toll free number - 800 46342
b. Use PBSK Mobile Application
c. Send e-mail on pbsk.dubai@mea.gov.in
d. Send whatsapp message on +971-54-3090571”

The UAE has laid out best practices for safety of residents and visitors.

The national vaccination campaign will cover accordingly, the 50 per cent population of the UAE by end of March 2021.  

A resident receives vaccine shot at Sharjah Expo Centre.

Authorities have advised residents to avoid social and private gatherings and urged everyone to social distancing rules and wear facemasks.

Residents have also been advised to get the COVID-19 jab as soon as possible.