ISLAMABAD: The United Arab Emirates has announced that it will soon resumeissuing work visas to Pakistani nationals, bringing relief to thousands ofjob seekers and overseas employment promoters. UAE Ambassador to PakistanSalem Mohammed Al Zaabi made the announcement during a meeting with adelegation from the Pakistan Overseas Employment Promoters Association atthe UAE Embassy in Islamabad. He confirmed that all necessary preparationsare actively underway to facilitate the restoration of visa issuance. Thisdevelopment follows periods of restrictions and delays that had impactedPakistani workers aspiring to secure employment in the Gulf state. The moveis expected to boost bilateral labour mobility and economic ties betweenthe two countries.
The announcement highlights ongoing diplomatic efforts to addressvisa-related challenges faced by Pakistanis. Ambassador Al Zaabi expressedoptimism that formal groundwork would lead to tangible progress in the nearfuture. Discussions focused on streamlining procedures to ensure smootherprocessing once issuance resumes. Pakistani authorities and employmentpromoters have long advocated for the reopening, citing the significantrole of remittances from UAE-based workers in supporting Pakistan’seconomy. In recent years, the UAE has remained a top destination forPakistani labour exports despite fluctuating visa policies.
Pakistan’s overseas employment sector stands to benefit substantially fromthis resumption. The country aims to facilitate jobs for around 800,000nationals abroad in 2026, including in the UAE and other GCC nations,marking an increase from the previous year’s figures. The UAE hosts a largePakistani expatriate community, contributing billions in remittancesannually. Restrictions in the past had led to reduced outflows andincreased uncertainty for skilled and unskilled workers alike. Theresumption is anticipated to create fresh opportunities in sectors such asconstruction, services, and hospitality.
Diplomatic engagements have played a key role in this positive shift. Theambassador’s meeting with POEPA representatives underscores collaborativesteps between Pakistani and Emirati officials. Preparations involvealigning administrative processes, enhancing verification mechanisms, andaddressing prior concerns related to visa compliance. Such measures aim toprevent misuse while facilitating legitimate employment migration. Expertsview this as part of broader bilateral cooperation, including agreements onpre-immigration clearance to ease travel and entry procedures forPakistanis.
The economic implications for Pakistan are considerable. Remittances fromthe UAE form a critical component of foreign exchange inflows, supportinghousehold incomes and national reserves. With preparations in progress,recruitment agencies expect a surge in demand for work visa applicationsonce official channels reopen. This could alleviate unemployment pressuresdomestically and provide stable income sources for many families. The UAE’slabour market continues to attract Pakistani talent due to competitivewages and proximity to home.
Challenges in visa processing had persisted in recent months, with reportsof delays and rejections prompting official clarifications. While no formalban existed, stricter scrutiny affected many applicants. The currentannouncement signals a return to more routine issuance, boosting confidenceamong prospective migrants. Pakistani government bodies, including theBureau of Emigration and Overseas Employment, are likely to coordinate withUAE counterparts to ensure efficient handling of applications.
Broader regional dynamics also influence this development. The UAE hasadjusted visa policies periodically to balance labour needs with securityand regulatory priorities. For Pakistan, strengthened ties with the UAEoffer avenues for enhanced manpower export and investment flows. Theresumption aligns with Pakistan’s targets for overseas job placements,reflecting mutual interest in sustainable migration partnerships.
As preparations advance, stakeholders anticipate a formal timeline for fullresumption. This step is poised to reinforce people-to-people contacts andeconomic interdependence between Pakistan and the UAE. Workers and familiesawait further details, hopeful for renewed access to employment prospectsin one of the region’s leading economies.
Source:https://thegulfobserver.com/uae-to-resume-work-visas-for-pakistani-nationals
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