Dubai: A 29-year-old Indian national from Kerala, identified as Issac Paul Olakkengil, died following a suspected cardiac arrest while scuba diving off Dubai’s popular Jumeirah Beach on Friday, June 6.

According to media reports, Issac, a civil engineer working in the UAE, was on a holiday break for Eid Al Adha with his wife, Reshma, and younger brother, Ivin, when the incident took place. The family had chosen to explore scuba diving at a designated area near the beach when the tragedy unfolded.

According to initial reports from family members, Issac began experiencing breathing difficulties underwater. Soon after, he suffered a cardiac arrest. Despite immediate rescue and revival efforts, he could not be saved.

Dubai authorities have confirmed that an investigation is underway. The scuba gear used during the dive has been taken into custody for technical examination as part of the probe.

Ivin, who lives and works in Abu Dhabi, was informed of his brother’s passing the following day. Family friends expressed concern over conveying the tragic news due to the close relationship the siblings shared.

“All three — Issac, Reshma, and Ivin — are engineers. While Issac and his wife were living in Dubai, Ivin is based in Abu Dhabi. Friends were extremely cautious in informing him, given their deep bond,” said Issac’s uncle David Pyarilos, who is now helping the family with the legal formalities, in a statement to Khaleej Times.

The family is currently working with Dubai Police to complete repatriation and legal procedures.