ISLAMABAD: Rumours took the internet by storm after Pakistan’s Senate committee was told that the UAE was not issuing visas to Pakistanis.
As per details, Additional Interior Secretary Salman Chaudhry told Senate Functional Committee on Human Rights that the Pakistani passport narrowly escaped a ban from the UAE and Saudi Arabia.”
He informed the Senate that if a ban is imposed, it would be tough to lift it. He stated that the UAE was issuing visas only to blue passport and diplomatic passport holders.
The Senate committee was told that the interior ministry had digitally obtained the data of 180 million to 200 million Pakistanis to prevent any misuse or irregularities in passport issuance. “Records of all citizens are available, and verification is done immediately,” he added.
UAE Envoy clears the air
UAE envoy has addressed the rumours and rejected reports claiming that Pakistanis are being denied visas, saying that the consulate has seen record numbers of visa applications in recent weeks.
“Every type of visa is being processed, and reports of a ban are completely false,” said UAE Consul General in Karachi, Bakheet Ateeq Alremeithi while speaking to private media outlet.
He said that the visa section at the Karachi consulate is experiencing an unprecedented rush for all categories of visas, and some types now require advance booking exceeding one month. The surge marks the highest level of visa demand the consulate has seen in the past three years.
It is pertinent to mention here that the GCC unified tourist visa will begin a pilot phase in the fourth quarter of 2025, according to UAE Minister Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri.
Unified visa advances regional integration amid looming security concerns
The GCC grand tourist visa is designed to let visitors move freely across the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain using a single entry permit.
Moreover, GCC ministers approved the system in 2023, and officials confirm it is in the final technical and digital implementation stage.
In addition, applications will be processed through an integrated digital platform, which will simplify planning and shorten processing times.
As a result, the Gulf will present itself as one connected destination with coordinated entry rules and clearer itineraries.
Also read: UAE Visit Visa Salary Update October 2025
