Confusion spread rapidly after claims suggested that Pakistanis were being denied visas by the United Arab Emirates. However, the UAE Consul General in Karachi has now offered a detailed clarification that directly challenges these claims and explains the actual situation shaping public perception.
UAE Consulate Confirms No Visa Ban on Pakistanis
The UAE envoy stated that every visa category remains open to Pakistanis. He stressed that talk of any ban was completely incorrect. According to him, applications continue to be processed without any restriction on ordinary passport holders.
Moreover, he emphasised that these rumours surfaced despite the consulate operating at full capacity. Therefore, delays were misinterpreted as policy changes.
Record-Breaking Surge Leads to Longer Booking Times
The envoy highlighted that the consulate is handling extraordinary application volumes. Some visa categories now require advance booking exceeding one month because demand has surged sharply. This situation represents the highest level of applications seen in the past three years.
Consequently, many people assumed a ban existed when, in reality, the system was simply overloaded.
Confusion Triggered by Statements in Senate Committee
The envoy’s clarification followed a recent briefing before a Senate committee. During the session, a senior interior ministry official claimed that visas were being issued only to diplomatic and blue passport holders. These remarks added to public concern and amplified the rumours.
However, the UAE envoy’s detailed explanation contradicts those statements and reaffirms that regular Pakistani travellers are still eligible for all visa categories.
Government Strengthens Verification to Prevent Misuse
Authorities also informed the Senate body that digital data of almost 200 million citizens has been compiled for instant identity verification. This step aims to prevent irregularities in passport issuance and ensure strict compliance with international standards.
Consequently, the updated system now detects misuse more efficiently.
Challenges Faced by Pakistanis Abroad
During the same briefing, officials also addressed concerns about Pakistanis jailed overseas. They explained that each country has its own legal framework. Therefore, it is often difficult to arrange legal support in every location. Most detainees are reportedly held for minor offences.
Human Trafficking Networks Remain a Growing Threat
Officials additionally highlighted that organised human trafficking groups operate from several Pakistani cities. These networks lure young individuals with false promises of foreign jobs. Each victim often pays significant amounts, which fuels these illegal operations. Furthermore, some traffickers operate in Dubai and other regions of the Middle East.
UAE Consulate Urges Applicants to Use Proper Channels
Despite the rising workload, the envoy encouraged all applicants to follow authorised procedures. He assured that applications continue to be processed normally, although delays may persist due to heavy demand.
