The Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi has successfully intervened to assist in the repatriation of a critically ill Indian national, Sibimon Babu, who suffered a heart attack while working in the United Arab Emirates.
Sibimon arrived in the UAE on a visit visa earlier this year, seeking employment opportunities. He had secured a position as a waiter at a local restaurant, but before his residency visa could be processed, he experienced a severe cardiac event on April 22, 2024. He was subsequently admitted to Cleveland Hospital in Abu Dhabi in critical condition.
Upon being contacted by the hospital regarding Babu’s situation, embassy officials promptly visited the medical facility. They met with the patient, his family members, attending physicians, and hospital administrators to assess the situation and coordinate the repatriation process.
The embassy’s swift action included retrieving Babu’s passport from his employer and completing all necessary procedures for his return to India. The Embassy arranged for a stretcher air ticket and appropriate medical escorts to ensure Babu’s safe journey home. Sibimons’s wife, Aparna, who is currently with him in Abu Dhabi, is also accompanying him to Kerala.
Balaji Ramaswamy, Counsellor (Visa and Community Affairs) at the Indian Embassy at Abudhabi, said, “The Indian Embassy is committed to assisting our citizens in times of need. In Babu’s case, we worked diligently to ensure his safe return home for further medical care. We’re grateful for the cooperation of local authorities, the hospital, and the community in facilitating Babu’s repatriation.”
Sibimon expressed his profound gratitude for the constant support provided by the Indian Mission, local good Samaritans, and the Marthoma Church throughout his ordeal. Sibimon is scheduled to depart for Kochi, India, on an Air India flight leaving Abu Dhabi on July 11, 2024, at 2:45 PM local time.
This case highlights the crucial role played by diplomatic missions in assisting citizens facing medical emergencies abroad. The Indian Mission’s timely intervention has potentially saved a life and provided much-needed support to a family in crisis.
Vinod Kumar, Dubai