UAE: Initiative to Repatriate 200,000 Residents Launched
The UAE’s National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority launched an initiative to aid the return of 200,000 residents stuck abroad due to coronavirus travel bans.
Those wishing to return must apply online for “Resident Entry Permit” on http://Smartservice.ica.gov.ae, a tweet from NCEMA said.
The Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship will cooperate with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation to facilitate the return of applicants.
Around 31,000 residents have already returned between March 25 and June 8, who “were prioritized based on family matters and humanitarian cases,” NCEMA tweeted.
Upon receiving approval from ICA, residents must book their tickets with national carriers or any other airlines that operate flights to the UAE.
Arrivals will be screened for COVID-19 and will have to quarantine for 14 days and download government approved tracking apps to monitor the spread of coronavirus.
