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Residency·17 October 2026

UAE Cancels Visas for Thousands of Bangladeshi Nationals, Affecting Return to Jobs

The UAE has cancelled visas for an estimated 4,800 Bangladeshi nationals, preventing many from returning to their jobs and businesses after visiting their home country.

The United Arab Emirates has reportedly cancelled the visas of approximately 4,800 Bangladeshi nationals, creating significant uncertainty for expatriates who had returned home for leave and are now unable to re-enter the UAE for work or business.

Bangladesh has formally approached the UAE through diplomatic channels, requesting a review of these cancellations. Nurul Haque Nur, the State Minister for Expatriates' Welfare and Overseas Employment, stated that the Bangladeshi government is collaborating with its Foreign Ministry to address the situation.

Many affected individuals, including workers and business owners, reported receiving cancellation notices via email or mobile message without specific reasons being provided. Some UAE sponsors were also reportedly informed of the cancellations.

One affected individual, Abul Kalam Azad, who had lived in the UAE for 27 years, stated his visa was cancelled in July after he returned to Bangladesh in April. He was among hundreds of expatriates who gathered at the National Press Club on September 7 to seek government intervention.

The group of affected expatriates has put forth several demands:

  • Diplomatic efforts by the Bangladeshi government to facilitate their return to the UAE.
  • Financial assistance ranging from BDT 15,000 to BDT 20,000 per month for their families.
  • Provision of alternative overseas employment opportunities if their return to the UAE proves impossible.
Frequently asked

Questions, answered

How many Bangladeshi nationals are affected by the UAE visa cancellations?
An estimated 4,800 Bangladeshi expatriates have had their visas cancelled by the UAE authorities.
What actions is Bangladesh taking regarding the visa cancellations?
Bangladesh has raised the issue with the UAE through diplomatic channels and has requested a review of the cancellations, with the government working with the Foreign Ministry to address the situation.
What demands have the affected expatriates made to the Bangladeshi government?
The affected expatriates have demanded diplomatic efforts to secure their return, financial assistance of BDT 15,000-20,000 per month for their families, and alternative overseas employment if return to the UAE is not possible.
Were specific reasons provided for the visa cancellations?
Many affected individuals reported receiving cancellation notices via email or mobile messages without being given specific reasons for the cancellations.
Reported by
Google News — UAE Visa & Residency
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This brief was summarised and rewritten by Gaia Living from public reporting. Figures and details reflect the original sources.

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