UAE starts repatriating Emirati nationals from UK

The UAE government has started the process of bringing home over 80 Emirati nationals from the UK.

These individuals were either studying or receiving medical treatment there but were unable to return following the closure of the UAE’s airports on March 24.

The plane carrying the first batch of evacuees landed on Sunday, April 5, while another flight is scheduled to arrive on April 7.

As many as 43 flights have been organised to bring back 1,783 UAE citizens from all around the world.

"Twenty-two evacuations are currently underway and shall be completed in the coming days to repatriate approximately 641 Emirati nationals," said Khaled Belhoul, Undersecretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.

Mansoor Abulhoul, UAE Ambassador to the UK, said: "The welfare of our citizens is our highest priority. Such a firm obligation also means getting our citizens home safe and sound at this difficult time."