This initiative follows the measures Prime Minister Narendra Modi indicated at the community function here on August 17 with a view to addressing the concerns of the poor expatriate Indian working class in the UAE.

The consulate said, "As the mobile phone usage among the expatriate community is quite wide, including blue collars, it is felt that an App would enable the consulate to disseminate useful information to the Indian citizens and guide them in case of distress."

"We have this functionality of an SOS button that will allow every member of the Indian community in particularly the blue-collar workers 24x7 access to the consulate through a free call when they have any problems," Anurag Bhushan, Consul-General of India for Dubai and Northern Emirates, said.

The App also has a message-enabled access mode. However, the iOS version has currently certain glitches and will be fully available only by October 10, it was stated. More Indian language options are expected to be added to the app soon.

The App would also provide the details about various initiatives of the Indian Government for providing assistance to the Indian community in the UAE. It would also help Indians move to the UAE for employment or business opportunities by giving local information.

The App contains information on passport, visa, consular, recuritment and other related matters. The App would also guide users in case of any exigency like death or any legal issue.

It provides links to various platforms of the Indian Government like PMO website, e-Migrate and Madad. There is a provision for 24×7 access to the Indian Workers Resource Centre, including SOS buttons and message-based grievance registration, which is expected to help Indian citizens in distress in the UAE. This would enable the user to reach the consulate at the time of any personal emergency.

SEE: UAE, Dubai Consulate offices and other useful links

ALSO see: Dubai consular camps schedule