Indian consulate in Dubai warns against fraud, confirms employers must bear repatriation costs

The Consulate General of India in Dubai has issued a fresh advisory on the repatriation of mortal remains of Indian nationals, urging the community to rely only on official sources and warning against fraudulent agents who charge exorbitant rates.

According to the advisory, the Consulate provides assistance for repatriation through its panel of community associations under the Indian Community Welfare Fund (ICWF). Support is extended strictly on a means-tested basis, in line with Government of India guidelines, particularly in cases where the deceased had no employer, sponsor, or insurance policy covering repatriation costs. In such situations, families are not required to bear any expenses.

The Consulate also highlighted the provisions under UAE Federal Decree Law No. (33) of 2021, Article 15 (3), which mandates that employers must bear all costs of preparing and transporting the mortal remains of deceased workers to their home country or place of residence, if requested by the family.

Families of the deceased are urged to rely solely on official information issued by the Consulate General of India in Dubai and the Northern Emirates. For guidance, they may visit the official website or contact the Consulate through its 24x7 helpline numbers.

Cost of Services

For reference, the indicative costs involved in the repatriation process are as follows:

Death Certificate (including translation): Dhs 110–140 

Embalming Fee: Dhs 1,072

Ambulance Fee: Dhs 220 (in Dubai; charges may vary in other Emirates)

Coffin Box: Dhs 1,840 

Air Cargo Charges: Dhs 1,800–2,500, depending on the airline, departure airport in the UAE, and destination airport in India. Additional handling and customs charges may apply.

Currently, Air India, Emirates Airlines, and Air Arabia (from Sharjah) provide cargo services for transporting mortal remains. Families are advised to confirm exact costs with airlines and to request official receipts for every payment.

Assistance Under ICWF

In cases where the deceased does not have an employer, sponsor, or valid insurance coverage, and the family cannot afford the expenses, the Consulate provides financial support under the Indian Community Welfare Fund (ICWF). Assistance includes the cost of the death certificate, embalming, coffin, local ambulance, and airfare to the airport nearest to the deceased’s hometown in India.

Community associations empanelled by the Consulate assist families across Emirates in completing all formalities free of service charges when ICWF support is extended.

To apply for ICWF assistance, families must submit:

A notarized letter from the next of kin explaining why support is required.

A QR-coded income certificate issued by the Indian state government (Tehsildar or higher authority).

Bank statements of the deceased or next of kin for the last six months.

All documents related to death registration, including the visa copy and employer letter, if available.

Helpline for Families

The Consulate has urged families to avoid unauthorized intermediaries and rely only on official guidance. For assistance, families may visit the Consulate website or contact the 24x7 helplines:

Mobile/WhatsApp: +971-50-7347676

Toll Free: 800 46342

The Consulate assured that bereaved families would not be left unsupported and emphasized its commitment to ensuring the dignified repatriation of Indian nationals.