Combating coronavirus: Indian embassy thanks UAE for repatriation effort

"Kudos to all the passengers for waiting patiently for their turn for medical screening and many thanks to all the frontline health workers and airport staff for extending full support," it tweeted.

A video posted shows airport personnel wearing masks and moving among passengers, seated according to social distancing rules, to assist them with queries, while members of the airport's cleaning crew ensure the area is constantly sanitised.

The Consulate General of India in Dubai has also praised the calm and "smooth" manner in which repatriation efforts are currently underway at the Dubai International Airport.

A photo tweeted by the consulate showed dozens of people patiently seated according to social distancing rules and awaiting their turn to take the IGM/IGG test before boarding their flight to Kozhikode, the first in a massive evacuation programme undertaken by the Indian government to bring its overseas citizens home.

"The happiness of going back home is everywhere. Thanks to all UAE authorities for looking after Indians and the wonderful arrangements today," the consulate tweeted.

"It's heartening to see the way, entire procedure is being carried out so smoothly for DXB CCJ flight..with social distancing..our heartfelt thanks to Dubai authorities (sic)", it added.

A video posted showed hopeful travellers being attended to by healthcare workers in personal protective equipment in a designated area of the waiting area.

With less than three hours to go for departure, the consulate stated that almost half of the 177 IGM/IGG tests had been completed, and that all passengers had so far tested negative.

The IGM/IGG test is a rapid antibody test that requires only a drop of blood, with results known in 10-15 minutes.

The Indian embassy has made clear that only those cleared by the UAE health authorities and found to be asymptomatic will be allowed to board the plane.