Hopes of traveling to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for tourism, transit, work and business opportunities were shattered when the Gulf country recently introduced (an unofficial) visa ban on Paksitani nationals. This article provides detailed information about this regulation and the strict measures the Pakistani government plans to implement.
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Factors Contributing to Visa Rejections for Pakistani Nationals
The following are the main reasons behind visa rejections for Pakistani nationals:
Child Rights Law
With an increasing number of Pakistani nationals being denied visas, the UAE government has implemented strict visa requirements for Pakistani individuals under 18 years old. Federal Law No. (3) of 2016, also known as Wadeema’s Law, is designed to protect children’s rights and promote their well-being.
UAE Consul General Bakheet Ateeq Al-Remeithi revealed that a significant number of Pakistani nationals with work visas in the Emirates are violating child protection laws. Many are bringing their children to the UAE without obtaining the proper visas or meeting the necessary requirements for housing, education, and healthcare. This is a serious violation of Wadeema’s Law and could result in heavy penalties for those found in breach.
Issues Concerning Protests and Fake Propaganda
The Gulf nation has issued a warning to Pakistani expats, cautioning them against spreading propaganda against the country, its institutions, or politicians. Dr. Al-Remeithi confirmed that several Pakistanis have been arrested, with five individuals receiving prison sentences ranging from 14 to 15 years.
He further stated,
People work round the clock here. Blocking roads and spreading misinformation about someone else is not part of the UAE’s culture. Our laws and regulations do not allow this at all.
Social Media Monitoring
The diplomat confirmed that UAE authorities review and evaluate the social media activity of visa applicants. He advised people to be mindful of their digital footprint, as every individual represents their country.
When asked whether social media accounts such as Instagram, Facebook, and X could impact visa approvals, the Consul General replied,
Yes, absolutely, that is true. No matter which social media platform you use, whether in Pakistan or the UAE, everything you share or like creates a digital footprint. Whether it is something positive or negative, these actions could result in your ban or visa rejection.
Criminal Activities
The recent immigration regulations imposed by the UAE government are driven by several factors. One key reason is the increasing involvement of Pakistani nationals in criminal activities, including drug trafficking, money laundering, and other illegal actions. These incidents have negatively affected the perception of Pakistanis among both the UAE government and its citizens.
Which Visa Categories Have Been Impacted by the Pakistan Visa Ban in the UAE?
During the Pakistan visa ban in the UAE, visit visas were mainly affected, preventing Pakistani nationals from applying for short-term tourist or business visas. However, a very small number of employment visas continued to be issued, though they underwent more rigorous scrutiny.
Is dubai work visa open for pakistan?
Yes, Dubai work visas are currently open for Pakistani nationals. However, they are subject to more rigorous scrutiny due to concerns over illegal activities and violations of local laws. Pakistani nationals applying for work visas must ensure they meet all requirements and pass through the stricter vetting process. It’s advisable to stay updated with the latest regulations and apply through official channels to avoid any complications.
What Actions Did the Pakistani Government Take in Response to the Visa Ban?
The Pakistani government has taken various measures in response to the UAE’s visa ban on Pakistani nationals.
The Senate Standing Committee on Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development was informed that there are no restrictions on work visas for Pakistanis traveling to the UAE. However, in response to growing concerns about Pakistani nationals involved in illegal activities, authorities have started implementing stricter screening procedures for passengers heading to the UAE.
A senior official from the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) confirmed that several passengers have been offloaded from flights in an effort to curb illegal activities.
On December 23, a Senate panel was informed that all Pakistani travelers to the UAE would now undergo police vetting and verification. Travel agents were also instructed to comply with this new measure.
However, the Overseas Employment Promoter (OEP) informed the committee that visas to the UAE had been unofficially suspended, resulting in a 50% drop in the number of Pakistani workers traveling there.
The Bureau of Immigration Director General, Muhammad Tayyab, confirmed that the number of Pakistanis traveling to the UAE is on the rise, with:
- 64% of the labor force being skilled workers
- 46% heading to the UAE’s construction sector
- 38% joining the service sector
- 20% traveling through Overseas Employment Promoters (OEPs)
- 8% being highly skilled workers such as doctors arriving on direct visas
What Measures Should Pakistani Nationals Take to Avoid Visa Issues in the UAE?
To prevent potential visa issues in the wake of the Pakistan visa ban in the UAE, Pakistani nationals should:
✅ Ensure they fulfill all visa requirements
✅ Apply through official channels
✅ Stay informed about any updates to UAE immigration policies
✅ Avoid political involvement and propaganda
✅ Be cautious about social media activity
✅ Seek legal guidance when necessary to ensure a smooth visa application process
For more information on visa policies, always consult official government websites or seek advice from immigration experts.
When Will Dubai Visit Visa Open for Pakistanis?
A recent positive development has occurred, bringing relief for Pakistani nationals.
Hamad Obaid Ibrahim Salem Al-Zaabi, the UAE Ambassador to Pakistan, met with Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and shared updates on measures being taken to simplify the visa process for Pakistanis.
With this significant progress in mind, there is hope for further improvements. It is recommended to keep an eye on official UAE government sources or consult with immigration experts for the most up-to-date information.
Conclusion
The ban on UAE visas for Pakistanis has created challenges for many, impacting travel and employment opportunities. However, recent efforts by both the UAE and Pakistan governments to streamline visa processes and address concerns offer hope for a resolution.
As discussions continue and steps are taken to ease restrictions, there is optimism that the situation will improve, leading to more opportunities for Pakistani nationals in the UAE.
It is crucial for all concerned parties to stay informed about changes in immigration policies and ensure compliance with necessary regulations to avoid further complications.
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