ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates agreed on Tuesday to introduce a pre-immigration clearance system that will allow Pakistani passengers to complete immigration and security procedures before departure. The initiative will enable travellers to skip lengthy queues on arrival at UAE airports and move through terminals more quickly.
The agreement emerged during a meeting between Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and a UAE delegation led by Director General Customs and Port Security Ahmed Abdullah Bin Lahej Al Falasi. According to a statement from the Ministry of Interior, both sides held detailed discussions on bilateral relations, mutual cooperation, and practical steps to simplify immigration processes. Consequently, they agreed to move forward with a formal agreement that will govern the new system.
Officials confirmed that authorities will first launch the system as a pilot project in Karachi. After evaluating its performance, both countries plan to expand the initiative to other cities and airports in phases. Therefore, the project is expected to serve as a testing ground for administrative coordination and technical integration.
System aims to improve the passenger experience
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi said passengers travelling to the UAE will complete immigration and relevant checks in Pakistan under the new mechanism. As a result, travellers will no longer need to undergo extended immigration procedures upon arrival and will be able to exit airports more smoothly, similar to domestic passengers.
He added that the initiative will save time, reduce congestion, and significantly enhance the overall travel experience. Moreover, he said the system reflects the strong partnership between Pakistan and the UAE and demonstrates a shared commitment to public convenience.
The UAE delegation welcomed the decision and described the initiative as beneficial for citizens of both countries. Members of the delegation expressed full readiness to cooperate and agreed to maintain close coordination to finalise the administrative and technical framework.
The visiting delegation included Executive Director Digital Transformation Abdullah Al-Kabi, Executive Director Airports Hammad Saif Al-Mashghouni, and other senior officials. Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry and Federal Secretary Interior Khurram Agha also attended the meeting, underscoring the importance both sides attach to the project.
