27-Year-Old Indian Dies In Dubai Blast
A 27-year-old Indian man from Kerala was killed in a gas cylinder explosion at a car showroom in Dubai this week. The victim, identified as Shijin Paul, was a resident of Kottarakkara in Kerala’s Kollam district. He worked as a multimedia marketing specialist and was responsible for social media and videography at the showroom on Dubai’s Sheikh Zayed Road, according to a report by Gulf News.
Five Others Injured In Explosion
The explosion also left five other people injured. Paul suffered serious injuries in the blast and later died while undergoing treatment at a hospital, his family said. He is survived by his parents and wife. The incident has raised concerns about workplace safety, particularly for Indian workers employed in the Gulf region.
Indian Consulate In Touch With Family
The Indian Consulate in Dubai has confirmed Shijin Paul’s death. According to the report, the Consulate is in contact with Paul’s family and local authorities. Officials are assisting with the formalities related to the repatriation of his mortal remains to India.
Paul Had Joined Company In November
Paul had joined the company only in November and had been working as part of its small team. His responsibilities included handling the showroom’s social media presence and videography. Colleagues remembered him as a dependable member of the team who was actively involved in the company’s day-to-day work.
Fire Broke Out Before Blast
According to Paul’s colleague Abid, who witnessed the incident, employees were first alerted to a fire at the premises. Several people, including Paul and Abid, immediately stepped outside the showroom after being alerted by their colleagues.
Abid told Gulf News that people from nearby shops also rushed out after noticing the fire. As the flames spread, several people attempted to control the situation using fire extinguishers before the gas cylinder exploded.
Explosion Took Place During Rescue Efforts
Abid said he was unsure about the exact location of the gas cylinder but recalled that the fire had started near a gate at one corner of the showroom. Several auto service companies were located next to the showroom, and the fire was near that area.
People were trying to put out the flames with fire extinguishers when the explosion suddenly occurred. The blast caused everyone in the area to run for safety. In the confusion that followed, Abid initially did not realise that Paul had been caught in the explosion.
Colleague Realised Paul Was Injured Later
Abid said that although he had been standing near Paul before the explosion, he only realised later that his colleague had been seriously affected by the blast. The sudden nature of the explosion left employees and people nearby scrambling to move away from the scene.
Paul’s death has left his colleagues and family devastated. Those who worked with him described him as a reliable person who played an important role in the small team.
Paul Was Planning Family Life In Dubai
Paul’s former roommate, Nasir, said the Kerala man had been making plans to bring his wife and child to Dubai. According to Nasir, Paul had been planning to do so after taking his first vacation and returning home.
The plans, however, were cut short by the fatal workplace accident. Paul’s family is now working with officials to bring his remains back to Kerala.
Indian Workers Face Workplace Safety Concerns
The incident comes amid continuing concerns over the safety of Indian workers employed abroad, particularly in the Gulf region. Thousands of Indians work across sectors in Gulf countries, including construction, manufacturing, services and other industries where workplace safety remains a key concern.
Indian government data cited in the report shows that more than 800 Indian nationals died in workplace accidents abroad between 2023 and 2025. Nearly 55 per cent of these deaths occurred in Gulf countries.
UAE Recorded 128 Indian Workplace Deaths
According to data shared by India’s Ministry of External Affairs, Saudi Arabia recorded the highest number of Indian workplace accident deaths during the three-year period, with 182 fatalities. The UAE followed with 128 deaths.
The figures highlight the risks faced by Indian workers abroad and underline the importance of strict workplace safety measures, emergency preparedness and timely response to accidents.
Family Awaits Repatriation Of Remains
As authorities investigate the circumstances surrounding the fire and gas cylinder explosion, Paul’s family is awaiting the repatriation of his remains to Kerala. The Indian Consulate in Dubai is coordinating with the family and local authorities to complete the necessary procedures.
For Paul’s family, what began as a young man building a career in Dubai has ended in tragedy. His death has also brought renewed attention to the need for stronger safety standards and protection for Indian workers living and working overseas.
