UAE Resumes 5-Year Multiple Entry Visas for Pakistanis After Resolution of Past Issues

In a positive development for Pakistani travelers, the Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to Pakistan, Hamad Obaid Ibrahim Salem Al-Zaabi, announced the restoration of five-year multiple-entry tourist visas for Pakistani nationals. This update comes after months of reported concerns and increased scrutiny that had previously led to delays and unofficial restrictions.

Speaking during a meeting with Sindh Governor Kamran Khan Tessori at the Governor’s House in Karachi, the ambassador confirmed that prior visa-related issues have now been resolved. "Visa issues have been resolved. Pakistanis can get a five-year visa," Al-Zaabi stated, as per a press release issued by the Governor’s House.

According to Dubai’s General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs, the five-year tourist visa allows multiple entries to the UAE within the visa period, without the requirement for a guarantor or host. This will significantly benefit families, businesspersons, and frequent travelers who need flexibility and long-term access to the Emirates.

Governor Tessori thanked the ambassador for the UAE’s continued investment in Sindh, particularly in Karachi. Al-Zaabi praised ongoing development initiatives and extended an invitation for the governor to visit the UAE visa center located at the Karachi consulate.

Background: Previous Tensions and Scrutiny

This decision follows a phase where UAE authorities had increased scrutiny of Pakistani nationals due to concerns about illegal activities such as begging and visa misuse. In December 2023, a Senate panel was informed that all Pakistani travelers to the UAE were required to undergo police verification before departure. Travel agents were also instructed to ensure compliance.

Furthermore, during a meeting in January 2024, the Senate Standing Committee on Overseas Pakistanis stated that while there was no official restriction on work visas, many Pakistanis were facing difficulties due to “unofficial closures” and behavioral concerns, especially on social media platforms like TikTok.

UAE Consul General in Karachi, Dr. Bakheet Ateeq Alremeithi, had previously clarified that visa rejections were not due to any formal ban but due to behavioral issues and negative content posted by some social media influencers in the UAE. These actions led to dissatisfaction within the UAE government, triggering stricter visa regulations.

What This Means for Pakistanis

The revival of five-year visas marks a significant step toward strengthening people-to-people ties between Pakistan and the UAE. With this new opening, it is now easier for Pakistani citizens to plan long-term family visits, business trips, and leisure travel to the UAE without repeated visa hassles.