Pakistan and UAE Agree on “Pre-Immigration Clearance” to Simplify Travel

Islamabad: Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have reached an agreement to implement a “pre-immigration clearance” system that will allow passengers’ immigration and related formalities to be completed in Pakistan before traveling to the UAE.

The agreement was reached during a meeting between Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and a UAE delegation led by Director General Customs and Port Security Ahmed bin Lahij Al Falasi. The discussion focused on bilateral relations, mutual cooperation, and measures to simplify immigration procedures for travelers.

Under the new system, initially to be launched on a pilot basis from Karachi, passengers will no longer need to undergo lengthy immigration procedures upon arrival in the UAE. Minister Naqvi said that travelers will be able to exit the airport as if they were domestic passengers, saving time and enhancing the overall travel experience.

The UAE delegation described the initiative as beneficial for the people of both countries and pledged full cooperation. Authorities from both sides will continue to coordinate to finalize the administrative and technical aspects of the pilot project. Upon successful implementation, the system will be gradually expanded to other locations.

The UAE delegation included Executive Director of Digital Transformation Jama Abdullah Al Qabi, Executive Director of Airports Hamad Saif Al Mashghouni, and other senior officials. Pakistani officials present included Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry and Federal Secretary Interior Khurram Agha.