UAE Stops Issuing Visas to Pakistanis as Near-Complete Passport Ban Looms — Here’s Why

The UAE has unofficially halted most visas for Pakistani nationals, restricting entry mainly to diplomatic and government passport holders due to rising concerns over criminal activity and misuse of visas. Pakistan engages in diplomatic talks to ease restrictions.

Mohammed Yousuf
UAE Stops Issuing Visas to Pakistanis as Near-Complete Passport Ban Looms — Here’s Why
UAE Stops Issuing Visas to Pakistanis as Near-Complete Passport Ban Looms — Here’s Why

Hyderabad: In a major development affecting thousands of Pakistani citizens, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has stopped issuing most regular visas to Pakistani passport holders, triggering widespread concern across the region.

The move came to light after Pakistan’s Interior Ministry confirmed that UAE visa issuance has been unofficially suspended, except for holders of diplomatic and government (blue) passports.

Although not officially termed a “ban,” the near-total halt is being described by officials as the closest step before a full passport ban, which would be extremely difficult to reverse.

Why Has the UAE Restricted Visas for Pakistanis?

According to the Interior Ministry’s briefing, the restrictions stem from growing concerns in Gulf countries—especially the UAE and Saudi Arabia—over certain Pakistani travelers being involved in:

Several deportations from Gulf nations further strengthened their caution, prompting the current visa curbs.

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Blue & Diplomatic Passport Holders Still Allowed

While the general public faces severe restrictions, the UAE continues to issue visas to:

However, ordinary passport holders are experiencing:

Officials warn that a complete official ban, if imposed, would be extremely challenging to reverse diplomatically.

UAE Announces New Visa Facilitation Reforms — But Restrictions Still Stand

Despite the tightened visa controls, UAE officials recently told Pakistan’s government that new visa-friendly reforms were underway, including:

These upgrades aim to modernize the visa process, though the core restrictions remain in place.

Earlier Assurances vs Current Reality

Earlier in 2025, the UAE had publicly stated that visa issues for Pakistanis were resolved, even announcing five-year multiple-entry visas.

However:

…forced Pakistan’s Interior Minister to raise the issue again with UAE authorities.

Despite diplomatic assurances, the ground reality remains unchanged.

Thousands of Pakistanis Impacted Across Travel, Work, and Business

The unofficial suspension has severely impacted:

The UAE is a crucial partner for Pakistan, being:

This makes the visa freeze particularly concerning for Pakistan’s economy and diaspora.

Parliamentary Committee Confirms Security-Linked Visa Curbs

Pakistan’s Senate Committee on Human Rights reviewed the Interior Ministry’s findings and confirmed that:

Officials insist the restrictions aim to prevent misuse—not punish genuine travelers.

What analysts suggest:

While the UAE has not officially banned Pakistani passports, the country has unofficially stopped issuing most visas, restricting entry to only a few passport categories.

The move is rooted in security and legal concerns, even as new visa facilitation reforms attempt to maintain strong bilateral ties. For now, thousands of Pakistanis continue to face uncertainty as diplomatic efforts work toward restoring normal travel conditions.

For further updates on Gulf visa policies, stay connected with Munsif News 24×7.

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