Viral Screenshot Sparks Confusion Among Travelers
Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates, Shafqat Ali Khan, has rejected reports claiming that the UAE suspended 48-hour and 96-hour transit visas for Pakistani nationals. He called the claims circulating on social media “not true.”
The clarification came after a screenshot began circulating online. The image was reportedly taken from an information page linked to VFS Global and associated with Emirates. The message in the screenshot stated that UAE immigration had temporarily suspended short-term transit visas for Pakistanis. It also advised applicants not to apply under the 48-hour or 96-hour categories.
The viral post quickly caused concern among Pakistani travelers. Many passengers were planning short stopovers in cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Some feared their travel plans could be disrupted. As a result, questions spread across social media platforms.
However, the Pakistani embassy moved swiftly to address the issue. The ambassador responded to media queries and dismissed the reports. He confirmed that there has been no official suspension of transit visas for Pakistani nationals.
How UAE Transit Visas Actually Work
According to official UAE guidelines, 48-hour and 96-hour transit visas are sponsored by UAE-based airlines. These include Emirates and Etihad Airways. Travelers must apply for these visas in advance. Approval is required before arrival in the UAE.
Transit visas allow passengers to leave the airport during layovers. They are designed for travelers who are not eligible for visa-on-arrival or visa-free entry. Therefore, passengers must meet specific entry requirements before receiving approval.
The visa process is handled through airline partnerships and authorized visa service providers. Applicants usually submit documents online. Airlines then coordinate with UAE immigration authorities. Once approved, travelers can enter the country for a limited period.
Importantly, the ambassador’s clarification confirms that this system remains unchanged for Pakistani nationals. No official notification has been issued by UAE authorities regarding any suspension.
Embassy Urges Public to Rely on Official Sources
The Pakistani embassy has urged travelers to rely only on official announcements. Social media posts and unverified screenshots can cause unnecessary panic. Officials advised citizens to check directly with airlines or authorized visa centres for accurate information.
Travel experts also noted that visa policies can change, but updates are always communicated through official channels. In this case, no formal directive has been released by UAE immigration authorities.
The ambassador’s statement aims to reassure Pakistani travelers. Transit visa processing continues as per existing guidelines. Therefore, passengers planning short stopovers in the UAE can proceed with applications through approved airlines.
The clarification highlights the importance of verifying information before sharing it online. Misinformation can spread quickly and create confusion. For now, transit travel between Pakistan and the UAE remains unaffected.
