Hajra Naz
In an important update, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has settled all unresolved visa issues with Pakistan, which now allows Pakistani citizens to apply for five-year, multiple-entry tourist visas.
This information was disclosed by the UAE Ambassador to Pakistan, Hamad Obaid Ibrahim Salem Al-Zaabi, while meeting Sindh Governor Kamran Khan Tessori at the Governor House in Karachi.
What is the UAE 5-Year Visa
The UAE 5-year multiple-entry tourist visa allows foreign nationals to enter the country multiple times without a sponsor. Each stay can last up to 90 days and can be extended for another 90 days. This visa is available to all nationalities, as stated on the official website.
What the 5-Year Visa Offers
As per Dubai’s General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs, the five-year tourist visa is issued for multiple entries into the UAE. No sponsor or host is required. This visa adds ease for Pakistani citizens who wish to visit family, conduct business or seek employment in the Emirates.
UAE-Pakistan Diplomatic Engagement
While meeting with the Governor, Al-Zaabi remarked,
“Visa issues have been resolved; Pakistanis can get a five-year visa.”
He also extended an invitation for Governor Tessori to visit the UAE visa center in Karachi, further demonstrating the UAE’s intention to enhance relations with Pakistan.
The governor noted the UAE’s participation in the development of Karachi and Sindh while praising the ongoing developmental works. Al Zaabi participated in a tree planting program as well as a flag hoisting ceremony under the friendly relations umbrella between the two countries.
Why Visa Restrictions Were Tightened
Historically, there has been a period when the Pakistani population had to face a sudden and sharp increase in the denial of visas to the UAE for distinct reasons. Reports suggest concern from the UAE authorities with certain classes of tourists for such unlawful activities as begging, overstaying, and using fake documentation. Travel agents’ advertisement posts Senate hearings, suggesting that all Pakistani nationals intending to visit the UAE needed police clearance certification.
The Senate Standing Committee on Overseas Pakistanis stated in January 2024 that employment visas were not officially prohibited. However, many thought that because of behavioral issues with specific Pakistanis, visitation visas were being informally restricted.
Social Media Conduct Also Under Scrutiny
The image and social media conduct of Pakistani influencers was other contributing factor to the visa denial decision. UAE Consul General in Karachi, Dr. Bakheet Ateeq Alremeithi, stated on Geo News that these factors contributed to the increased rate of visa denials. UAE authorities became increasingly unhappy with unfiltered poor TikTok antics and other such platforms, prompting stricter visa policies.
Updated Visa Application Process and Fees
As of 2025, UAE visa applications for visit, tourist, and family visas must be submitted online. Employment visas follow a separate route. The visa processing fee is USD 69 (approx. PKR 19,000), and applicants must show proof of payment.
UAE 5-Year Visa Requirnments:
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Certified six-month bank statement with a $5,000 minimum balance
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Proof of accommodation
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Confirmed round-trip flight ticket
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Valid passport or national ID
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For minors: Photos and in-person biometrics, depending on age
Equally, some applicants may be required to submit proof of property ownership and pay a deposit of AED 3,000.
UAE Reaffirms Strong Ties With Pakistan
UAE authorities have assured Pakistan that there are no limitations on the granting of visas to Pakistani nationals. At the ministerial and undersecretary levels, the Pakistani Embassy in Abu Dhabi has been aggressively addressing the issue in the United Arab Emirates.
These developments offer optimism for improved mobility facilitation, less red tape, and increased cooperation on common interests in the reviving Pakistan-UAE relationship.
