The advice says the Embassy and Consulate are working with UAE officials and the airlines to be certain passengers are safe and have what they need. People working for the government have been told that the UAE government and the airlines have promised to fully help the Indian group that is on the ground.
Diplomatic groups have been watching who is arriving and leaving, and where people can stay at the major places people change planes. They are also giving information to relatives and to Indian officials back home to make getting help easier.
What is happening with passengers at the airports in Abu Dhabi and Dubai
Some passengers said they heard alarms and saw explosions, as authorities stopped flights as a precaution. Passengers going to other places and those coming into the country were left waiting in the airport buildings when airlines stopped services because of safety.
Lots of people stuck at the airports said they were mixed up and worried, but also said that airport people and the airlines quickly worked to give updates and temporary places to be. The airports are still important places people change planes, and flights are only starting up again after safety checks.
Airspace closures and flight problems across the Gulf
After attacks and responses to the attacks made people worry about safety in the larger Middle East, airlines stopped dozens of routes. Information about where planes are flying showed hundreds of flights were cancelled or went another way, affecting Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and other airports in the Gulf area.
The closing of airspace in the area made international connections harder and caused airlines to send planes away from the fighting. The cancelling of flights has affected thousands of passengers, and has added problems with planning and money for travelers and airlines.
Help for people from other countries and what the FRRO says
India also gave wider advice to people from other countries who are in India and cannot travel because of the problems in West Asia. The government told people who were affected to contact the nearest Foreigners Regional Registration Office – or FRRO – to get visas extended and to make their staying in the country legal.
FRRO offices will help with paperwork so travelers don’t have legal problems while they stay longer. Contact information for FRRO offices is on the Bureau of Immigration website. Officials said that all the things that need to be done will be handled easily.
What people stuck at the airports can do and what is next
Travelers should watch official airline and government websites for up-to-date information, and keep travel papers and contact numbers with them. People stuck in Abu Dhabi and Dubai should follow the Embassy’s directions, get help from airport people, and if they can, register with consular services.
Passengers whose flights were cancelled should ask airlines about getting money back, changing flights, and getting a place to stay. Travelers might also want to make claims with travel insurance for delays and cancellations, and keep receipts for any money they spend in an emergency.
As the problems in the area change, officials are asking for people to be careful and for continued talks between countries to lower the danger to planes and people moving about. For now, India and UAE officials are working to get things back to normal and to help passengers who were affected by the quick problems.
