In a major diplomatic development, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has officially granted visa-free entry to a select category of Pakistani passport holders — but only those with diplomatic and official passports.
The announcement was made during the Pakistan-UAE Joint Ministerial Commission session, held after a ten-year pause. The renewed meeting underscored the commitment of both countries to revitalizing and deepening bilateral ties, with a strong emphasis on economic and strategic cooperation.
During the high-level dialogue, the two sides signed a series of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), targeting enhanced collaboration in vital sectors including trade, finance, healthcare, education, energy, and investment. Among the key outcomes was the creation of a Joint Task Force, aimed at streamlining visa procedures, improving investment frameworks, and boosting economic exchanges between the two nations.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar described the meeting as “productive,” stating that it demonstrated a shared vision to take Pakistan-UAE relations to a higher level. The two Muslim-majority nations also agreed to deepen their partnership in cutting-edge sectors like artificial intelligence and the digital economy, aiming to unlock new technological and economic opportunities.
Context: UAE’s Tougher Immigration Stance
The visa-free initiative comes in stark contrast to UAE’s recent history of tightening immigration protocols for Pakistani nationals. In the past year alone, more than 50,000 visa applications from Pakistan were reportedly rejected amid increasing scrutiny over immigration violations and unlawful behavior.
The UAE authorities cited a rise in illegal activities, including street begging and visa overstays, as key concerns. As a result, police character certificates have now been made mandatory for Pakistanis seeking entry into the UAE.
Over the last 16 months, over 10,000 Pakistanis were deported, including 4,740 former prisoners and 5,800 individuals with criminal charges, reflecting the Emirates’ tougher stance on law enforcement and entry regulations.
A Step Forward — With Caution
While the visa-free entry is a significant gesture for official and diplomatic travelers, it does not apply to ordinary Pakistani passport holders. However, the establishment of a joint task force and renewed bilateral enthusiasm suggest that broader facilitation measures may be on the horizon.
As both countries push forward with new agreements and shared economic goals, the move is being seen as a strategic reset in Pakistan-UAE relations — one that prioritizes mutual respect, economic collaboration, and secure mobility.
