In a positive development for travelers, the UAE has officially announced that Pakistani citizens can avail five-year multiple-entry visa. The news was shared by Hamad Obaid Ibrahim Salem Al-Zaabi, the UAE Ambassador to Pakistan, during his meeting with Sindh Governor Kamran Khan Tessori at the Governor’s House on Tuesday.
According to Dubai’s General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs, this long-term tourist visa allows a person to make several trips to the UAE from the date of issue, without needing a guarantor or host within the country.
“Visa issues have been resolved, Pakistanis can get a five-year visa,” Zaabi was quoted as saying in a press release from the Governor House.
Tessori thanked the UAE diplomat for his country’s investment in the province, especially in Karachi. The ambassador praised ongoing projects under the governor’s initiative.
According to the reports, the UAE authorities have increased security checks for Pakistani nationals entering the country, following concerns over their alleged involvement in criminal activities, including street begging. On December 23, a Senate panel was informed that all Pakistani travelers heading to the UAE must now undergo police verification before departure. Travel agents have also been instructed to follow these new guidelines.
As per UAE immigration officials, a few documents will be required for the visa.
1. Passport valid for at least six months
2. Recent color photograph
3. Return ticket
4. Proof of stay (hotel booking or residential address)
5. Bank statement showing at least 4,000 USD or its equivalent in the last six months.
6. Health insurance acceptable in the UAE
Authorities said that the application process is easy and approval is expected within 48 hours of submission of the application, while visa applications can be submitted online or through approved visa centers.
