Malayali Healthcare Workers Facing UAE Visa Curbs, Kerala CM Seeks PM Modi's Intervention
Malayali Healthcare Workers Facing UAE Visa Curbs, Kerala CM Seeks PM Modi's Intervention Published By, Last Updated: June 07, 2026, 14:15 IST employees of the
Malayali Healthcare Workers Facing UAE Visa Curbs, Kerala CM Seeks PM Modi's Intervention Published By, Last Updated: June 07, 2026, 14:15 IST employees of the Dubai hospital said they had been left in limbo after the healthcare institution was shut down amid recent regional tensions. AI-generated image used for representational purpose. Kerala Chief Minister VD Satheesan wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking urgent intervention on behalf of Indian healthcare professionals, predominantly Malayalis, who are reportedly facing visa-related difficulties in the United Arab Emirates. The health care workers are left in a limbo following the closure of the Iranian Hospital in Dubai. The Chief Minister’s intervention comes after a group of affected nurses and healthcare workers submitted a grievance petition detailing the hardships they have faced since losing their jobs at the hospital. The workers have urged authorities to help resolve what they describe as unexplained visa restrictions that are preventing them from securing new employment and continuing their lives in the UAE. Healthcare Workers Write To Kerala CM In a letter addressed to the Kerala Chief Minister, former employees of the Iranian Hospital said they had been left in limbo after the healthcare institution was shut down amid recent regional tensions.
According to the petition, many former staff members have encountered difficulties while applying for employment visas, visit visas and dependent visas. They claim that applications are being rejected with references to unspecified “security reasons" in the immigration system. The healthcare workers stressed that they have complied with UAE laws throughout their stay and have spent years serving in the country’s healthcare sector. Many of them also highlighted their role during the COVID-19 pandemic, when they worked on the frontlines caring for patients during one of the most challenging periods in the region’s healthcare history. Families Face Uncertainty The workers said the situation has created severe emotional and financial strain on hundreds of families. Several affected professionals have children enrolled in schools in the UAE, while others have spouses and dependents residing in the country. Many are currently living under a grace period following the termination of their employment, but fear they may soon be forced to leave if they fail to obtain new visas. Some healthcare workers who have already exited the UAE reportedly worry they could face long-term restrictions on re-entry, potentially jeopardising their careers, professional licences and future employment prospects in the Gulf region.
“We have spent years building our lives here and serving the healthcare system. Now many families are facing uncertainty despite having no involvement in any unlawful activity," the petition stated. Satheesan Appeals to Prime Minister Taking note of their concerns, Chief Minister Satheesan wrote to Prime Minister Modi requesting the Centre’s intervention through diplomatic channels. In his letter, Satheesan described the situation as “extremely distressing" and highlighted the contributions made by the affected healthcare workers to the UAE’s healthcare system, particularly during the pandemic. “These professionals have served with dedication and distinction, including during the COVID-19 pandemic, when they stood on the frontlines of healthcare delivery," the Chief Minister said in his communication. He further noted that many families who have lived and worked in the UAE for years are now facing financial hardship and uncertainty following the closure of the hospital and the alleged visa restrictions. Request For Diplomatic Engagement The Kerala Chief Minister urged the Ministry of External Affairs to examine the issue and engage with the Indian Embassy in the UAE as well as relevant Emirati authorities to seek a fair resolution. He emphasised the humanitarian dimensions of the matter, pointing out that many affected workers are approaching the end of their grace period and risk being compelled to leave the country.
Satheesan also requested support for affected Indian healthcare professionals in securing new visas and employment opportunities, allowing them to continue their livelihoods in the UAE. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers,... Read More Location: Kerala, India, India First Published: June 07, 2026, 14:15 IST News india Malayali Healthcare Workers Facing UAE Visa Curbs, Kerala CM Seeks PM Modi's Intervention Disclaimer: Comments reflect users’ views, not News18’s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...
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