The Pakistani consulate in the UAE has released a video advisory outlining important guidelines for expatriates, particularly job seekers and those on visit visas. It emphasizes the need to familiarize themselves with local laws and regulations to avoid legal issues.
Hussain Muhammad, the consul-general in Dubai, stated, “This video aims to inform Pakistanis in the UAE and those traveling here about local laws, as well as their rights and responsibilities.”
The advisory warns that violations of local laws can result in court appearances, fines, imprisonment, or deportation.
For verification of visas issued to Pakistani nationals in Dubai, individuals can consult the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA). For visas from other emirates—such as Abu Dhabi and Sharjah—verification can be conducted through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security.
Job seekers are urged to verify the legitimacy of potential employers through official channels and to reach out to the Pakistan Embassy in Abu Dhabi or the Consulate-General in Dubai if they have any doubts.
The advisory also directs individuals to resources for labor laws and regulations on the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (Mohre) website. Candidates can use email and chat services for inquiries, while immigration and visa matters can be handled at Amer Centres, and labor issues at Tasheel Centres.
In cases of crime or disputes, individuals should promptly report incidents to the police. Workplace violations must be reported to Mohre within one year following the cancellation of a work permit.
Expatriates are advised to keep medical records, copies of their valid passport and visa pages, updated employment contracts, and financial records accessible, and to share this information with close family members both in the UAE and Pakistan for support if needed.
Additionally, they should utilize official channels for remitting money between the UAE and Pakistan and protect personal identification documents, SIM cards, passports, Emirates IDs, and email accounts from fraud. The advisory also stresses the importance of being vigilant against online banking and credit card scams and recommends obtaining life and medical insurance, as well as UAE’s Involuntary Loss of Employment (ILOE) insurance.
Hussain Muhammad concluded, “As overseas Pakistanis, we represent our country. Following the laws of our host nation enhances our reputation and that of our entire country.”
Approximately 1.7 million Pakistanis reside in the UAE, making them the second-largest expatriate community in the country, with millions of Pakistani tourists visiting annually. The consulate advises against posting content that could be seen as anti-religious, defamatory, or critical of other countries’ policies and warns against taking jobs on visit visas or collecting funds for unregistered charities. Expats are urged to strictly adhere to UAE laws.
