Kerala Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan has appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for urgent intervention to address the difficulties faced by hundreds of Indian healthcare professionals, most of them nurses from Kerala, following the closure of the Iranian Hospital in Dubai. The issue has emerged as a major concern for expatriate workers who now face uncertainty regarding their jobs, visas and future residency in the United Arab Emirates.
In a letter addressed to the Prime Minister, Satheesan described the matter as a humanitarian issue involving Indian citizens working abroad. He urged the Central Government to take up the matter with UAE authorities through the Ministry of External Affairs and the Indian Embassy in the UAE. According to the Chief Minister, many healthcare workers who had been employed at the hospital are now struggling with visa-related complications affecting employment permits, dependent visas and visit visas.
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The closure of the hospital has left several Indian families, particularly Malayali families, in a state of distress. Many healthcare professionals fear losing not only their jobs but also their legal residency status in the UAE. Some workers have reportedly informed the state government that they are nearing the end of their grace period and may soon be forced to leave the country if solutions are not found.
Satheesan highlighted the significant contribution made by these healthcare workers over the years, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic when they served on the frontlines of healthcare delivery. He noted that many of them have maintained exemplary records while living and working in the UAE.
The uncertainty has also affected families who have built their lives in the Gulf nation. Many workers have children studying in schools across the UAE while simultaneously managing housing expenses, loans and other financial commitments. Concerns have also been raised about prolonged unemployment affecting professional licenses and future career opportunities.
Seeking a fair and compassionate resolution, the Chief Minister urged the Centre to engage with UAE authorities and extend diplomatic support to the affected workers. He emphasized that the issue concerns not only employment but also the welfare and stability of numerous Indian families who have contributed significantly to both countries over the years.
