UAE: Stranded Indian Man with Vision Loss in One Eye Returns Home

Abu Dhabi: Stranded Indian Man with Vision Loss Repatriated Home

An Indian national who overstayed his visit visa and lost vision in one eye was repatriated home on Tuesday, July 9, with the help of the Indian embassy in Abu Dhabi.

Sunil, a native of Kerala, arrived in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in 2022 on a visit visa, aiming to secure employment opportunities. However, despite his efforts, he was unsuccessful in finding a job. As time passed, his situation worsened, and he ended up surpassing the validity of his visit visa.

Diagnosis and Challenges

A diagnosis of glaucoma, an illness that affects the visual nerve in the eye, further complicated Sunil’s already precarious situation. This condition led to the loss of vision in one eye. Unable to work and with his health deteriorating, Sunil found himself stranded in a foreign country without any means of support.

Assistance from the Indian Embassy

Recognizing his dire circumstances, Sunil sought assistance from the Indian embassy in Abu Dhabi. The embassy promptly responded to his plea for help. They facilitated his repatriation to Kerala by assisting him with the necessary paperwork and issuing an air ticket for his return journey. Thanks to their support, Sunil was able to safely travel back to his native place, where he could receive the care and support he needed.

UAE Visa Regulations and Fines

The UAE authorities regularly issue advisories to visitors, urging them not to overstay their visas. They recommend renewing visit visas or obtaining residency to avoid legal complications and ensure compliance with the country’s regulations. Despite these warnings, many visitors, like Sunil, find themselves in difficult situations when they overstay their visas.

In August 2023, the UAE standardized overstaying fines for visit, tourist, and residence visas at Dirham 50 per day. This measure aims to enforce visa regulations more strictly and discourage individuals from overstaying their permitted duration in the country.

Importance of Embassy Assistance

Sunil’s case highlights the challenges faced by many expatriates who travel to the UAE in search of better opportunities but encounter unforeseen difficulties. His experience underscores the critical role that embassies and consulates play in providing support to their nationals abroad. The Indian embassy in Abu Dhabi, in particular, has been instrumental in assisting Indian nationals in distress, ensuring their safe return home when necessary.

Sunil’s repatriation story is a reminder of the importance of seeking timely assistance from relevant authorities. It also highlights the need for increased awareness among visitors about visa regulations and the potential consequences of overstaying. By adhering to these rules and seeking help when needed, expatriates can navigate their stay in foreign countries more safely and effectively.

Returning to Kerala marks the end of a challenging chapter in Sunil’s life. It also serves as a testament to the efforts of the Indian embassy in Abu Dhabi, which continues to support and protect the interests of Indian nationals in the UAE. Through their dedication and swift action, they have helped individuals like Sunil find their way back home and begin the process of rebuilding their lives.