The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has resumed issuing visit visas to Pakistani citizens who apply through registered travel agencies.
According to news reports, travel industry representatives and an official from the UAE Embassy confirmed this development.
According to reports, families are benefiting the most from the decision as family visa applications are now being approved more quickly.
Around 1.8 million Pakistanis live in the UAE, which is also one of the biggest sources of remittances for Pakistan.
According to immigration data, the number of people travelling from Pakistan to the UAE is also increasing.
A senior immigration official said around 400 passengers were travelling to Dubai every day by the end of July. At the start of the summer, the number was about 170 passengers per day.
New UAE visa rule: Police certificate now mandatory
The UAE recently introduced a new rule for Pakistani citizens applying for work visas. Under the new policy, applicants must provide a police character certificate as part of their visa application.
According to Pakistan’s Bureau of Immigration and Overseas Employment in Islamabad, the rule became effective on July 20. The police character certificate is now required for all Pakistanis applying for a UAE work visa.
Under the new process, applicants must first get a Good Conduct (Police Character) Certificate from the relevant authorities in Pakistan.
The certificate must then be attested by the UAE Embassy before the work visa application is submitted.
The Bureau has advised people planning to work in the UAE to get the required certificate before applying. This will help prevent delays in the visa process.
Earlier, Dubai also launched a new support centre for people facing visa-related problems. The centre will help stranded tourists, job seekers and others who need assistance.
Dubai Immigration Director General Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri said that people with visa issues can visit the Al Awir Centre. Officials will review their cases and provide the necessary support.