“In the backdrop of the prevailing situation following the outbreak of COVID-19, the UAE Government today released nearly 400 Pakistani prisoners in line with the understanding reached between the Governments of Pakistan and the UAE. These prisoners were serving their term in the UAE jails for minor offences,” said a press release issued by the Embassy of Pakistan in Abu Dhabi.
“Two Fly Dubai flights are bringing these prisoners to Faisalabad International Airport, Faisalabad and Bacha Khan International Airport, Peshawar,” the press release added.
“The government of Pakistan sincerely thanks the brotherly government of the UAE for this kind gesture during the challenging times.”
Pakistani officials said further flights were expected to begin next week for expatriates who wish to return home.More than 25,000 have formally requested repatriation in recent weeks. Many have lost jobs, closed businesses or taken extended leave because of the economic effect of Covid-19.
400 Pakistanis from #UAE have flown back home, their repatriation done through 2 special flights.
This is a huge gesture in such challenging times. Thank you @uaegov for caring for our people.@ALZAABI82 @ForeignOfficePk pic.twitter.com/nkWDIsgTm5
— Sayed Z Bukhari (@sayedzbukhari) April 14, 2020