UAE-based actor Rik Aby glad on returning to UAE

Zakir Jawed, Staff Reporter

The UAE-based renowned actor Rik Aby expressed delight on reaching the UAE after being stuck in Jordan for almost four months.

Aby landed at the Dubai airport on Wednesday night after the UAE government ended the mandatory ICA approval procedure required for the stranded UAE residents abroad.

From Wednesday, this procedure has been removed and travel will be permitted into the country, provided travellers carry out specific procedures.

Around more than 200,000 people with a valid UAE visa were abroad when the borders closed on March 19. Since then, families and workers have been gradually returning but many were unable to secure permission under the previous ICA system.

Speaking to Gulf Today, Aby hailed the UAE’s wise leadership for their role in facilitating the return of the residents.

“It’s a welcome relief to be back in the UAE and I hope to resume my passion again.

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Following the coronavirus outbreak, the Sudanese actor was stuck in Jordan for almost four months. He had travelled to Jordan in March for a shoot of a Malayalam movie starring South Indian superstar Prithviraj.

 “I have spent two Eid and Ramadan in Jordan now. I felt a dark cloud was lifted over my head of uncertainty. There is nothing worse than not knowing where you will be and not having a plan.

“But I put my faith in God that He knows the best and will take care of everything,” he said.

Expressing gratitude towards the UAE, Aby said he would continue to represent the country on international projects.

“I feel proud of working in the UAE and want to make some contribution to the country.

“I missed the UAE to the point that I started to see places in Irbid, like certain areas in the UAE. I also looked for similar restaurants that would connect me to the UAE. I missed it so much that I went through my time, trying to keep in touch with all my friends. Fortunately I ran into two friends in Irbid, who used to stay in the UAE.”

Aby added that he understood the pain of thousands of people stranded across the globe who are waiting to get back home as soon as possible.

“I hope all of the people stay safe and let’s collectively hope and pray that life gets back to normal soon,” he signed off.