DUBAI: Five Keralites have died of COVID-19 in the Gulf today. Ashok Kumar, a native of Kunnamkulam in Thrissur and Sajeev Raj of Chirayinkeezhu died of the virus in Abu Dhabi. 53-year-old Ashok Kumar died when he was to return to the state.

Sajeev (50) was admitted to the hospital in Abu Dhabi on Friday after he developed fever. Susheelan, a native of Attingal died in Dubai. He was a driver.

Shaji Chellappan of Pallippuram in Alappuzha died in Sharjah. 52-year-old Shaji was admitted to a hospital in Kuwait two days ago. With this, 49 Keralites have died in UAE.

Balan Bhasi of Kunnamkkulam in Thrissur died at Damam in Saudi Arabia. So far, 12 Keralites have died in Saudi Arabia.