Pakistanis can now obtain five-year UAE visas

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

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

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

During the meeting, Ambassador Al Zaabi extended an invitation to the governor to visit the UAE visa centre established in Karachi.

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

As part of the visit, Ambassador Al Zaabi also planted a tree at the Governor House under the plantation campaign and took part in a flag-hoisting ceremony.

He shared 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 that no official visa ban was imposed on Pakistani nationals.

Addressing a query from Dr Nafisa Shah, the ministry conveyed that the UAE Embassy said that their Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security has introduced a new five-year visa policy.

This policy requires applicants to provide round-trip tickets, hotel bookings, proof of property ownership (if applicable), and a down payment of AED3,000.

The ministry highlighted that several factors have led to increased scrutiny and restrictions on Pakistani applicants. These include 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 been raised regarding the inappropriate use of social media by some members of the community.

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