"An embassy has set up an operational headquarters, which is led by the diplomatic staff; they are in touch with the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation in order to facilitate the departure of citizens from the country in accordance with a prepared plan of action in emergency situations", the head of the diplomatic mission wrote on Twitter.
The Saudi Arabian Embassy in Lebanon, in turn, reported that so far 132 Saudi citizens have managed to depart from Rafic Hariri International Airport.
On Friday, the Gulf States' foreign ministries issued travel advisories for their citizens, recommending them to refrain from going to Lebanon at this time or in the event of a stay in the country to take precautions and avoid crowded places.
Rallies erupted in Beirut and other cities across Lebanon on Thursday as the government sought to raise additional funds by introducing a $6 monthly tax on online calls made via WhatsApp and other mobile applications. The tax was abandoned as the protests gained momentum. However, the rallies continued with dozens of people injured in clashes between the security forces and the protesters.
