The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has stopped giving most types of visas to people from Pakistan. Only those with diplomatic or government “blue” passports can apply for visas. Ordinary citizens with green passports are not allowed to get tourist, visit, or work visas at this time.
Officials in the UAE said the decision was made because of rising crime cases involving some Pakistani visitors. Reports mention problems such as begging groups, overstaying visas, drug activities, and violent incidents.
The ban does not cancel visas that have already been issued. People who already hold valid visas can still travel until their visas expire. But new applications for tourist, visit, or employment visas are not being accepted.
This move has created concern in Pakistan, as the UAE is one of the most important countries for Pakistani workers and families. Many depend on jobs in the UAE and on visit visas to meet relatives.
Pakistani officials confirmed that both the UAE and Saudi Arabia had discussed stronger restrictions earlier this year. They warned that if a full ban is imposed, it may be very difficult to reverse.
