Pakistan’s ambassador to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, has addressed the ongoing visa challenges faced by Pakistanis, citing minimal improvement despite the amnesty scheme ending on October 31.
He made these remarks during GITEX GLOBAL 2024, where it was revealed that many Pakistanis, including startup owners and IT professionals, have been experiencing visa rejections.
This issue has brought attention to the UAE’s evolving employment needs, which now favor highly-skilled workers over the traditional blue-collared workforce that played a major role in the country’s development.
Tirmizi acknowledged that while Pakistani workers have historically contributed to the development of the UAE, the market is now looking for more specialized talent.
He also stressed the importance of preparing Pakistanis to work in a multicultural environment, emphasizing the need for emotional intelligence and organizational skills.
Earlier Statements
This situation follows earlier denials by UAE officials regarding visa restrictions for Pakistanis.
He emphasized that all facilities were available for Pakistani businessmen, workers, and those seeking medical treatment.
Similarly, in June, the UAE Consulate General, Bakheet Obaid Al-Roumi, dismissed reports regarding the visa ban circulating on social media.
He reassured that the visa section remained open and that Pakistanis, regardless of age, could continue to travel to the UAE for work.
Despite these official reassurances, visa rejections have notably increased, highlighting the challenges now facing Pakistanis seeking to enter the UAE.
Recent data from Pakistan’s Bureau of Emigration shows a significant drop in Pakistani workers registered in the UAE, with figures falling below 60,000 this year from over 229,000 in 2023.
