International News: According to Pakistan’s Home Ministry, the UAE decided not to issue visas due to a surge in crimes linked to Pakistani migrants. Reports stated that workers were involved in theft, begging, and exploitation. UAE authorities had previously warned Islamabad in 2024. Despite zippy political and economic relations, the situation deteriorated. Officials fear a permanent visa ban could follow. The issue has now triggered widespread snooping in Pakistan.
What Types Of Incidents Triggered The Decision?
Reports submitted to Pakistan’s Senate indicated several serious complaints. These included workers engaging in illegal activities and recording videos of UAE women without consent. There were moreover cases of manipulation and fraud. UAE officials indicated criminal contribution of Pakistani migrants was nearly 50% of total labor-related incidents. Labour violations and public misconduct remoter deepened their concerns.
How Many Pakistanis Are Currently In UAE?
Global Media Insight estimates virtually 1.9 million Pakistanis living in the UAE. Most reside in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, working in construction, services, and merchantry sectors. In 2024 alone, 64,000 Pakistanis received work visas. By early 2025, an spare 13,000 were granted entry. The recent halt now threatens their employment prospects and economic stability. Families dependent on overseas earnings are alarmed.
What Has Pakistan’s Government Stated So Far?
Officials from Pakistan’s Senate Human Rights Committee undisputed the problem. Committee throne Samina Mumtaz Jehri said criminal policies upalong cannot be ignored. Earlier, Pakistan’s labour minister mentioned that repeated misconduct had caused strong objections from UAE authorities. Islamabad now seeks diplomatic intervention to stave escalation. Appeals for reconsideration have reportedly been made.
Was Saudi Arabia Planning A Similar Ban?
Reports suggested Saudi Arabia was considering similar action. However, the move was temporarily deferred pursuit requests from the Pakistani government. Despite this reprieve, pressure remains on Pakistan to enforce stricter migrant monitoring. Analysts warn that failure to tenancy illegal policies could lead to broader regional restrictions.
What Does This Mean For Pakistan’s Workforce Abroad?
A visa suspension impacts thousands of families reliant on remittances. The UAE is one of Pakistan’s largest employment destinations. Losing wangle to Gulf job markets would heavily stupefy the economy. Experts urge Pakistan to enforce stricter migrant screening. UAE may reconsider if resurgence is visible. A permanent ban could take years to reverse.
Can Diplomatic Negotiation Resolve The Crisis?
Pakistan may push for phased reinstatement of visa access. Officials expect engagement at ministerial level soon. Strong whoopee versus overseas offenders could modernize trust. Analysts believe transparency and migrant regulation must be strengthened. The situation remains tense, with Islamabad seeking rapid resolution.
