[India and UAE] India establishing quarantine centres for expats in UAE

According to a union minister, India has begun a coordinated effort with the UAE Government to establish quarantine centres for Indians who have tested positive for COVID-19, Khaleej Times reports.

V.Muraleedharan - India's Minister of State for External Affairs - reportedly said the missions, with the permission of the UAE Government, in the UAE are working to convert schools and Indian association buildings into quarantine centres. Those quarantined in the centres will be given food and other basic provisions by the Indian missions, the minister said as he took questions from Indian expats on a Malayalam channel.

In response to another question, Minister Muraleedharan said there is no need to send an Indian medical team to the UAE at present. If such a move becomes necessary, the Indian government and UAE authorities will explore the possibility of creating a team of Indian doctors and medical professionals in the UAE to help those in need.

The minister added that it is not practical to repatriate the expatriates at present as there would not be sufficient quarantine facilities in India for those who return. However, once the lockdown ends, priority will be given to those at highest risk, including the elderly, pregnant women and those with health issues.

According to a union minister, India has begun a coordinated effort with the UAE Government to establish quarantine centres for Indians who have tested positive for COVID-19, Khaleej Times reports.

V.Muraleedharan - India's Minister of State for External Affairs - reportedly said the missions, with the permission of the UAE Government, in the UAE are working to convert schools and Indian association buildings into quarantine centres. Those quarantined in the centres will be given food and other basic provisions by the Indian missions, the minister said as he took questions from Indian expats on a Malayalam channel.

In response to another question, Minister Muraleedharan said there is no need to send an Indian medical team to the UAE at present. If such a move becomes necessary, the Indian government and UAE authorities will explore the possibility of creating a team of Indian doctors and medical professionals in the UAE to help those in need.

The minister added that it is not practical to repatriate the expatriates at present as there would not be sufficient quarantine facilities in India for those who return. However, once the lockdown ends, priority will be given to those at highest risk, including the elderly, pregnant women and those with health issues.