Unofficial Visa Restrictions for Pakistanis in UAE: Challenges and Future Outlook

Islamabad:In a recent meeting of the Senate Committee on Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development, a detailed briefing was provided regarding the informal visa restrictions imposed by the United Arab Emirates (UAE), particularly concerning work visas.

During the meeting, the Secretary of the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis clarified that there is no “complete ban” on visas for Pakistanis, and skilled workers are not facing difficulties in acquiring visas. He emphasized that each country has its own visa policy, and there are no specific restrictions on Pakistani professionals. However, he pointed out that there has been a reduction in the demand for unskilled workers, and the focus should be on sending more skilled labor abroad.

### Are the Informal UAE Visa Restrictions Easing?
Adnan Paracha, Vice President of the Overseas Employment Promoters Association, told *V-News* that the informal visa restrictions for Pakistanis in the UAE have now been lifted, but obtaining a UAE visa is still challenging. He explained that while there are no official bans on employment visas for Pakistanis, visas are being granted by semi-governmental companies, but issues persist with companies directly under the UAE Ministry.

Paracha noted that the Pakistani government is trying to address these concerns, but so far, no significant solutions have been achieved. He further pointed out that some Pakistani workers and the misuse of social media by Pakistanis in the UAE are contributing factors to these issues. “Each country has its own laws, and it’s crucial to adhere to them. Unfortunately, a few Pakistanis are causing difficulties for the rest,” he said.

It is also important to note that UAE authorities have made it clear that they check the social media activities or digital footprint of individuals before issuing them a visa.

### Why Are Some Pakistani Workers Struggling with UAE Work Visas?
Paracha pointed out that a significant reason for the ongoing difficulties in obtaining UAE work visas is the high number of Pakistanis who entered the UAE on visitor or job seeker visas in 2023. Approximately 229,000 Pakistanis entered the UAE under employment visas last year, with a large number also coming on visit and job seeker visas. Once these individuals secured jobs, they converted their visit or job seeker visas to employment visas.

Paracha speculated that the UAE may have imposed informal restrictions to balance the workforce from various countries. He further mentioned that the number of Pakistanis obtaining work visas is expected to decrease significantly in 2024, with only around 75,000 Pakistanis anticipated to receive employment visas.

### When Will the Situation Improve for Pakistanis Seeking UAE Visas?
Paracha expressed hope that 2025 would bring good news for Pakistanis seeking UAE work visas. “I am confident that when the UAE’s new visa policy is introduced in 2025, it will bring better decisions regarding the issuance of visas for Pakistanis,” he said.

Travel agent Junaid Yusuf also spoke to *V-News* about the current state of UAE visas. He confirmed that while there is no official ban on visas, about 90% of visa applications are being rejected. He stated that the UAE has reduced its visa issuance rate, and currently, only individuals with booked hotel accommodations and return tickets are being granted visas.

Yusuf further explained that many Pakistanis who travel on visit visas to the UAE end up overstaying their visas, especially those under the age of 30, which may be contributing to the rejection of their visa applications. “According to a survey in the UAE, individuals under 30 are more likely to overstay their visas and not return to Pakistan,” he said.

### The Future of UAE Visas for Pakistanis
Another Islamabad-based travel agent, Muhammad Farhad, added that while there appears to be no official ban on UAE visas, the process of obtaining them remains challenging for many Pakistanis. He highlighted that individual visas are the most difficult to acquire, while family visas are still more accessible. “The reason is that it’s easier for individuals with family members to comply with the visa duration, as they are more likely to return on time, whereas individuals traveling alone may overstay,” he explained.

Farhad also emphasized the role of Pakistani habits in creating difficulties. He advised Pakistanis to adhere to UAE laws to avoid complications in the visa application process.

In conclusion, while some challenges remain in obtaining UAE visas for Pakistanis, there is cautious optimism that with the introduction of new policies in 2025, the situation may improve, especially for those complying with the country’s laws.