5-year UAE visa for Pakistanis
In a landmark move that underscores the United Arab Emirates’ ongoing efforts to enhance bilateral ties and economic engagement with Pakistan, the UAE government has officially announced the availability of a five-year multiple-entry tourist visa for Pakistani nationals. This decision marks a significant development not just in travel policy but also in broader regional cooperation, with potential ripple effects across tourism, trade, and workforce mobility.
According to UAE Ambassador to Pakistan, Hamad Obaid Ibrahim Salem Al Zaabi, all previous obstacles regarding the issuance of this visa have been resolved. The announcement was made during a meeting with Sindh Governor Kamran Khan Tessori at the Governor’s House. The news, as reported by Dawn, brings a renewed sense of optimism for Pakistanis aspiring to visit or engage in economic activities in the UAE.
What the Visa Entails
The five-year multiple-entry tourist visa, as outlined on Dubai’s General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs website, allows holders to travel to the UAE several times from the date of issuance without the need for a local guarantor or host. This flexibility presents a substantial opportunity for Pakistani professionals, investors, and tourists who wish to explore or contribute to the dynamic UAE economy.
Notably, this visa also reduces bureaucratic barriers and encourages seamless travel, enabling closer family ties, frequent business engagements, and a smoother travel experience for repeat visitors.
Strategic Implications for the UAE Economy
The decision to open up long-term, flexible visas to Pakistani nationals is more than a diplomatic gesture—it reflects the UAE’s broader strategic vision of positioning itself as a global hub for commerce, tourism, and investment. With a significant portion of the UAE’s workforce and expat population hailing from Pakistan, this move could drive further integration of skilled labor into the UAE economy.
More Pakistani entrepreneurs, investors, and skilled professionals visiting the UAE more frequently could mean increased investments in small businesses, real estate, tech ventures, and retail markets—particularly in cities like Dubai, where international talent and capital play a critical role in sustaining economic momentum.
Diplomatic Engagements Signal Stronger Bilateral Relations
During the recent meeting in Karachi, Ambassador Al Zaabi not only confirmed the resolution of visa-related issues but also extended an invitation to Governor Tessori to visit the UAE consulate’s visa center in the city. In return, Tessori expressed his gratitude for the UAE’s continued investment in Sindh, especially Karachi, which remains a focal point of the economic partnership between the two regions.
This dialogue highlights mutual respect and an intention to deepen ties—both governmental and economic—between Pakistan and the UAE. Continued collaboration can pave the way for joint initiatives in sectors like infrastructure, renewable energy, trade, and technology.
Addressing Concerns Around Visa Scrutiny
Despite this positive development, it’s essential to acknowledge the challenges that led to the increased visa restrictions in the past year. The UAE had reportedly tightened its scrutiny of Pakistani visitors due to concerns over criminal behavior and public conduct, including instances of begging and questionable social media content by influencers.
A Senate committee in Pakistan was informed in December that Pakistani travelers to the UAE required prior police verification, and travel agents were instructed to adhere to new vetting protocols. Additionally, UAE authorities had expressed dissatisfaction over the behavior of some Pakistani nationals on platforms like TikTok, which may have influenced the visa tightening measures.
However, UAE officials, including Consul-General Dr. Bakheet Ateeq Alremeithi, have made it clear that there is no official ban on Pakistani visas. The reintroduction of the five-year visa reflects a significant shift in tone and policy, suggesting that with improved vetting and mutual understanding, the two countries are ready to move forward.
No Restrictions on Work Visas
Another positive note came from the Senate Standing Committee on Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development, which confirmed in January that there were no restrictions on work visas for Pakistanis traveling to the UAE. This assurance supports the idea that the recent policy changes are more about regulation and quality control than exclusion.
With that, Pakistani workers and professionals can continue to contribute to the UAE economy, especially in key sectors such as construction, hospitality, logistics, and healthcare.
Looking Forward: A Win-Win for Both Nations
The new five-year visa regime opens a new chapter for Pakistan-UAE relations. As both nations continue to evolve and face global economic challenges, mutual cooperation can create shared opportunities.
For the UAE, which is diversifying beyond oil and investing heavily in tourism, digital transformation, and green energy, attracting frequent visitors and investors from a friendly nation like Pakistan is a strategic move. For Pakistanis, it presents a stable and welcoming gateway into one of the Middle East’s most vibrant economies.
Ultimately, the reintroduction of long-term, multiple-entry visas is a clear message: the UAE is open for business, travel, and partnership. And with improved diplomatic channels and better regulatory oversight, the pathway to collaboration has never been more promising.
