People leave the area after an explosion on Istanbul's popular pedestrian Istiklal Avenue, Istanbul, on Sunday. AP

Gulf Today, Staff Reporter

The UAE strongly condemned the terrorist bombing that took place in the centre of the Beyoglu district in Istanbul, which resulted in the death and injury of dozens of civilians.

In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MoFAIC) confirmed that the UAE expresses its strong condemnation of these criminal acts, and its permanent rejection of all forms of violence and in contravention of human values and principles.

The Ministry expressed its sincere condolences to the government and friendly people of the Republic of Türkiye, and to the families of the victims of this heinous crime, and its wishes for a speedy recovery to all the injured.

The UAE Consulate in Istanbul issued safety advisory for the country’s citizens after the blast in Taksim Square.

The UAE Consulate called on the citizens and residents of the UAE to stay away from the site of the explosion in Taksim Square, and stressed the need to follow the safety instructions issued by the Turkish authorities.

In case of emergency, the Consulate urged UAE citizens to contact on the numbers 0097180024 or 00971800044444 and registered with Twajudi service.

At least six people were killed and 81 others wounded on Sunday when an explosion rocked a busy pedestrian street in central Istanbul.

Ambulances raced to the scene on the packed Istiklal Avenue, which police had quickly cordoned off. The area, in the Beyoglu district of Turkey's largest city, had been crowded as usual at the weekend with shoppers, tourists and families.

A helicopter flew above the scene and a number of ambulances were parked in nearby Taksim Square. The Turkish Red Crescent said blood was being transferred to nearby hospitals.