The Senate Standing Committee on Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development was informed on Monday that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has not imposed a “total denial” of issuance of visas to Pakistani nationals, despite concerns persistent concerns regarding visa restrictions.
The remarks were made during a committee session chaired by Senator Zeeshan Khanzada, during which the UAE’s unofficial restrictions on work visas were discussed.
According to a press release from the Senate, Secretary Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development (OPHRD) clarified that although the demand for unskilled labor has reduced, there is no had no restrictions on skilled workers.
“As far as Dubai is concerned, there are no restrictions,” the secretary of state stressed, noting that each country has its own objectives when it comes to labor demand. The secretary also pointed out that around 700,000 workers had migrated abroad this year, emphasizing the need to focus on sending more skilled workers.
However, Senator Khanzada raised concerns over the ongoing problem, saying many people were wondering when the visa restrictions would be resolved. “Agents claim to meet all requirements when applying for a visa, but visas are still not issued,” he said.
The committee called for more action, with Khanzada urging authorities to provide updates on compliance and deadlines for informing the public. He also suggested inviting Overseas Employment Promoters (OEPs) to future meetings to ensure proper checks and balances.
The Foreign Ministry had previously rejected the idea of a total visa ban, with spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch clarifying that granting visas is a sovereign decision for the UAE.
UAE Consul General in Karachi Dr Bakheet Ateeq Al Rumaithi also rejected the impression of a visa ban, stressing that Pakistan remains a priority for the UAE when it comes to business and investment.
Although improvements have been seen, Pakistani nationals still face significant challenges in the UAE visa process, a situation which remains a key point of discussion between the two governments.