UAE Resumes Visa Issuance for Pakistani Nationals, Processing 30,000 Monthly
The UAE has resumed issuing online visas to Pakistani nationals at its previous pace, with approximately 30,000 visas processed monthly, signalling improved diplomatic ties.
The United Arab Emirates has fully restored its visa issuance process for Pakistani nationals, returning to pre-suspension levels. Diplomatic sources indicate that the UAE government is now issuing an average of 30,000 online visas per month to Pakistani citizens, with additional visas being processed through travel agents.
This resumption marks a significant improvement in relations between the two countries, following a period where visa processing for some nationalities, including Pakistan, had faced restrictions. The earlier pause was linked to offences involving individuals deported from the UAE, specifically concerning regional conflict and aggression against the UAE.
Improved Relations and Expatriate Conduct
The UAE government reportedly took a lenient approach with those involved, opting for deportation rather than imprisonment or court trials. Sources noted that Pakistani expatriates have since demonstrated a clearer understanding of local regulations and sensitivities, leading to no recent forced expulsions of Pakistani nationals.
Currently, 2.2 million Pakistanis reside and work in the UAE. The number of deportations over several months was approximately 3,500. The improved relations are partly attributed to the constructive role played by the new UAE Ambassador, Salem Mohammed Al Zaabi.
Economic and Strategic Ties
Pakistan and the UAE share a long-standing strategic, economic, and cultural partnership dating back to the UAE's establishment in 1971. This relationship is underpinned by robust trade, defence cooperation, and a significant Pakistani diaspora.
Pakistani expatriates in the UAE contribute billions of dollars annually in remittances to Pakistan's economy. Bilateral trade between the two nations is estimated at around $8 billion, covering sectors such as energy, consumer goods, and real estate investments. Also, the UAE-Pakistan Assistance Programme has supported major infrastructure, healthcare, and education projects in Pakistan.
Questions, answered
- How many visas are being issued to Pakistani nationals by the UAE each month?
- The UAE government is currently issuing an average of approximately **30,000 online visas per month** to Pakistani nationals, in addition to those processed by travel agents.
- What was the reason for previous visa restrictions for some Pakistani nationals?
- Previous restrictions were linked to individuals deported from the UAE for offences related to regional conflict and aggression against the UAE, though they were asked to leave the country rather than facing prison or trials.
- How many Pakistani expatriates currently live and work in the UAE?
- Currently, **2.2 million Pakistani nationals** are working and residing in the United Arab Emirates.
- What is the approximate annual trade volume between the UAE and Pakistan?
- Trade between the UAE and Pakistan hovers around **$8 billion annually**, spanning sectors like energy, consumer goods, and real estate investments.
This brief was summarised and rewritten by Gaia Living from public reporting. Figures and details reflect the original sources.
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