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In a significant and unexpected move, the United Arab Emirates has halted the issuance of most visas for Pakistani nationals, citing a sharp rise in cases of crime, begging, and misuse of entry permits. The decision was revealed during a briefing to Pakistan’s Senate Standing Committee on Human Rights, where a senior interior ministry official confirmed a widespread freeze affecting the majority of visa categories traditionally used by ordinary Pakistani passport holders.
This development has triggered concern across Pakistan, home to one of the largest expatriate communities in the UAE. For decades, Pakistanis have travelled to the Emirates for employment, tourism, family visits, and business engagements making the UAE one of the most critical destinations for Pakistani workers and travellers.
What Exactly Has Been Suspended?
Authorities confirmed that the suspension targets “regular visas” primarily tourist visas, visit visas, and several forms of short-term work permits. The freeze does not currently apply to diplomatic passports or individuals holding special-category “blue passports.” These categories continue to be processed under stricter scrutiny.
The suspension appears to be broad and indefinite, with no fixed timeline announced. Pakistani officials expressed worry that once such a freeze is enforced, reversing it may become extremely difficult, especially if the UAE tightens the policy further.
Why the UAE Took This Step
The UAE has reportedly become increasingly concerned over the behaviour of certain Pakistani visitors who arrive on short-term visas but engage in illegal work, street crimes, or organized begging. Law enforcement authorities in the Emirates have recorded a noticeable spike in such incidents over the past year.
Officials believe that many individuals were misusing visit visas to enter the country without legitimate employment or sponsorship, later engaging in activities that violate local laws. This has placed pressure on the UAE’s internal security framework, prompting authorities to take pre-emptive action before the issue escalates further.
Impact on Pakistani Citizens and the Economy
For millions of Pakistanis who depend on Gulf markets for work opportunities, the visa freeze is a major setback. The UAE has historically been one of the top destinations for Pakistani migrant labour. Restrictions of this scale can affect:
- Job opportunities for skilled and unskilled workers
- Family reunification, especially for dependents
- Tourism and business travel
- Remittances, a major pillar of Pakistan’s fragile economy
Any long-term freeze could impact foreign exchange earnings, while thousands of aspiring workers may be forced to delay or cancel their plans.
Travel agents in Pakistan have already reported a surge in anxiety among clients awaiting visa approvals. Many had invested significant amounts in job placement, documentation, or travel arrangements now left in limbo.
Confusing Messaging Adds to Uncertainty
While Pakistan’s interior ministry has confirmed the freeze, there have been contradictory signals from diplomatic circles. Some UAE officials informally suggested that there is no “complete ban” on Pakistani passports but acknowledged that certain visa categories are paused or undergoing stricter evaluation.
This mixed messaging has created confusion for travellers, recruitment agencies, and businesses in both countries. As of now, there is no official statement from the UAE government publicly acknowledging the ban, adding to uncertainty among applicants who do not know what to expect.
Diplomatic Concerns and Regional Implications
The decision comes at a sensitive time for UAE-Pakistan relations. Both countries share historical ties, strong trade relations, and a large expatriate population. Any disruption in visa policies could strain diplomatic relations if not handled carefully.
Moreover, the freeze may impact sectors in the UAE that rely heavily on Pakistani labour particularly construction, transport, retail, and domestic services. Employers in the UAE might face labour shortages or increased hiring costs if the suspension persists.
Migration experts warn that without clear communication, such sudden restrictions might push desperate individuals toward illegal or unsafe migration channels, increasing the risk of exploitation and human trafficking.
What Pakistan Needs to Do Now
To address the crisis, analysts argue that Pakistan must take several urgent steps:
- Engage the UAE diplomatically to seek clarity on the decision.
- Strengthen background checks on travellers to ensure only legitimate, vetted individuals apply.
- Crack down on trafficking networks that send individuals abroad under false pretenses.
- Improve public awareness about the risks of traveling on visit visas for illegal employment.
A coordinated effort between both nations could help rebuild trust and pave the way for a gradual easing of restrictions.
A Difficult Moment With High Stakes
For thousands of Pakistani families relying on Gulf employment and for a government dependent on remittances, the UAE’s decision carries far-reaching consequences. As officials in Islamabad scramble to gather details, travellers and job-seekers remain stuck in uncertainty.
The visa halt marks a critical moment one that may reshape migration patterns between Pakistan and the UAE for years to come. Whether this freeze becomes a short-term corrective measure or evolves into a long-term structural shift will depend heavily on diplomatic dialogue, reforms, and bilateral cooperation. For now, dreams of UAE travel and employment have been abruptly paused, leaving countless Pakistanis waiting for clarity and hoping for a resolution.
