The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has reportedly stopped visa issuance for Pakistani citizens across various categories, causing concern among exporters, traders and business communities over the impact on trade and commercial activities.
Business leaders said the restrictions have created uncertainty for Pakistani companies with operations in the UAE, particularly Dubai, where many firms maintain offices and participate in major international exhibitions.
They warned that ongoing visa difficulties could affect Pakistan’s export growth and limit participation in global trade events, including the upcoming Gulfood exhibition in Dubai.
Ismail Suttar, Founder and Chairman of the Salt Manufacturers Association of Pakistan, said the UAE was currently not issuing visas to Pakistanis under any category and that the reasons for the restrictions had not been officially communicated.
“We sent a letter to the consul general of the UAE on June 11 and followed up on July 7, but there has been no progress so far,” a Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry member said.
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Suttar said the situation was affecting exporters’ preparations for Gulfood, adding, “When sales representatives cannot obtain visas, companies cannot showcase products, meet buyers or explore new export opportunities.”
Shahid Anwar, former secretary general of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry, said Pakistani businesses were facing a mixed visa environment across the Middle East.
He noted that Saudi Arabia and Kuwait had introduced measures facilitating travel for Pakistanis, but the UAE situation remained challenging.
Usman Shaukat, President of the Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said members with established UAE businesses were facing major difficulties despite having long-standing commercial ties and investments there.
