Pakistani Nationals can now apply for five-year UAE visas

KARACHI: On Tuesday, the UAE’s envoy, Hamad Obaid Al Zaabi, announced that Pakistani nationals will now be eligible to obtain five-year visas for the United Arab Emirates.

The announcement came during a meeting at the Governor House in Karachi between Sindh Governor Kamran Khan Tessori and UAE Ambassador Hamad Obaid Al Zaabi. UAE Consul General Bakheet Ateeq Al Remeithi also attended the meeting.

The governor thanked the UAE envoy for his country’s investment, particularly in Sindh and Karachi, and appreciated the efforts to strengthen bilateral ties.

During the meeting, Ambassador Al Zaabi invited the governor to visit the UAE visa center established in Karachi.

Commenting on the initiatives launched under the governor, the UAE envoy praised them and expressed support for efforts aimed at development and collaboration.

As part of the visit, Ambassador Al Zaabi planted a tree at the Governor’s House as part of the plantation campaign and participated in a flag-hoisting ceremony.

He also wrote his sentiments in the guest book, marking the occasion as a symbol of enduring friendship between the two nations.

Last month, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) notified the National Assembly that the UAE had confirmed it had not imposed any official visa ban on Pakistani nationals.

In response to a query from Dr. Nafisa Shah, the ministry conveyed that the UAE Embassy announced the introduction of a new five-year visa policy by their Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security.

This policy requires applicants to provide round-trip tickets, hotel bookings, proof of property ownership (if applicable), and a down payment of AED 3,000.

The ministry highlighted that several factors have increased scrutiny and restrictions on Pakistani applicants, including incidents of individuals submitting fake degrees, diplomas, and fraudulent employment contracts.

Additionally, some Pakistani nationals have overstayed their visas and have been implicated in political and criminal activities. Concerns have also arisen regarding the inappropriate use of social media by certain members of the community.

The Pakistan Embassy in Abu Dhabi has raised these issues with the UAE authorities at both the ministerial and under-secretary levels.