‘No Restriction on UAE Work Visas for Pakistanis,’ Senate Committee Informed
The Senate Standing Committee on Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development recently addressed concerns regarding restrictions on UAE work visas for Pakistani nationals. In response to these concerns, the committee was assured by officials that there are no restrictions on work visas for Pakistanis seeking employment in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This assurance has come as a relief to many job seekers and expatriates who were concerned about possible employment barriers in the UAE.
Clarification on UAE Work Visas
During a session, the committee was briefed by officials from the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development, who clarified that no restrictions have been imposed by the UAE government on granting work visas to Pakistani nationals. This statement was made in response to growing speculation and concerns raised by various quarters regarding potential limitations on employment opportunities for Pakistanis in the UAE.
The committee stressed that the UAE remains one of the most important destinations for Pakistani workers, with thousands employed in various sectors such as construction, health, information technology, and service industries.
Speculations and Concerns
It was in the news that UAE work visa approvals for Pakistanis could slow down. Various reports indicated that some applications were being turned down or put on hold, and it created a sense of panic among Pakistani expatriates and job seekers.
However, the Senate committee clarified that such reports were baseless, and there was no such official communication from the UAE authorities regarding any visa restrictions for Pakistani nationals.
Continued Employment Opportunities
The UAE has been one of the biggest markets for Pakistani workers, especially in fields where skilled labor is required. In the past couple of years, the relationship between Pakistan and the UAE has strengthened and both countries have been engaging in economic and social cooperation.
Pakistani nationals form a large share of expatriates in the UAE and have been part of its development in all sectors. The UAE government has not failed to recognize this contribution and has confirmed that policies regarding work visas for Pakistani nationals remain unchanged.
Government Efforts to Support Pakistani Workers
The Senate committee also discussed how support mechanisms for Pakistani workers working abroad, including in the UAE, should be strengthened. Concerns were raised over the welfare, rights, and social security of expatriates, with a call for enhanced diplomatic efforts to protect the interests of Pakistani workers.
In addition, the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis has been collaborating closely with the UAE authorities to ensure that expatriates are treated fairly and that assistance is provided promptly when needed.
Impact on Pakistani Diaspora
For the Pakistani diaspora in the UAE, and more so for those residing in the economic hubs of Dubai and Abu Dhabi, this assurance by the Senate committee has come as a huge relief. This is expected to boost confidence among job seekers and working professionals to continue seeking opportunities for economic and professional development.
Future Prospects
In the coming days, the Pakistani government will likely hold further dialogue with UAE authorities to smooth out procedures for the betterment of Pakistani expatriates. Strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries will also remain at the forefront, fostering mutual economic and social benefit.
Since the UAE will continue to be one of the prime destinations for Pakistani workers, policies that are inclusive and transparent will be pivotal in keeping the relations between the two countries intact for a long period.
