Following the recent widespread destruction caused by calamities in India and Pakistan, UAE residents are taking steps to bring their families to the country. Concerned expats wish to have their loved ones with them until the heavy rains and floods in their home countries subside.
Avinash Hegde, a corporate lawyer in Dubai originally from Mangalore, Karnataka, India, has decided to relocate his family to the UAE after authorities evacuated many families from his hometown due to flooding. "Our house is near the Kulur River, which is flooding due to heavy rainfall. Most families living around the river have been evacuated by authorities to safety. I decided to bring my parents and sister to Dubai until the situation normalizes," Hegde explained. Continuous heavy rains along India's west coast have severely disrupted daily life in many towns and villages, with several houses submerged.
Hegde added, "I am awaiting the visit visas for my family members and will then book their tickets." Saba Ansari, another Dubai resident, is also taking precautions to protect her family from the severe weather in Mumbai. The city is preparing for increased rainfall activity, with the India Meteorological Department issuing a yellow alert.
"Recently, a building collapsed near our home in Navi Mumbai, and many residents are fearful and have moved elsewhere," Ansari stated. "I have asked my brother to come to Dubai for a few days until the heavy rain eases. Typically, the rain subsides by mid-August each year," she added.
Mohammed Shuaib, an engineer living in Al Nahda, Sharjah, had initially sent his wife and children to Lahore, Pakistan, but recent flooding has changed his plans. Lahore experienced record-high rainfall, resulting in at least three fatalities and widespread disruption. "I was traveling for work and had limited internet access. I didn't know about the flooding in my hometown. When I returned to the UAE, I saw a message from my wife on WhatsApp, informing me that water had entered our home in Mustafa Town and they hadn't slept all night," Shuaib recounted. Despite the water level receding, the aftermath left mud and debris in their home. "My family, originally scheduled to return on August 26, will now return early. My parents are also coming with them. My brothers will be cleaning the home," Shuaib concluded.
