The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has halted the issuance of most visas to Pakistani nationals amid growing concerns over criminal activities linked to applicants from the country. According to India Today Global Editor Pranay Upadhyay, Pakistani authorities fear the restrictions may soon escalate into a complete ban — a move that would further damage the international standing of the Pakistani passport, currently ranked among the weakest in the world.
Officials in Islamabad have reportedly acknowledged that visa denials have sharply increased over the past weeks. While the UAE continues issuing visas to Pakistani diplomats and government officials — holders of red and blue passports — ordinary citizens with green passports are facing extensive scrutiny and widespread rejections.
Reputation of Pakistani Passport Declines Further
The Pakistani passport already sits near the bottom of global rankings, placed fourth last according to global mobility indexes. The latest UAE restrictions deepen the challenges faced by Pakistani travellers and migrant workers seeking employment in Gulf nations.
Pranay Upadhyay noted that the UAE’s move reflects “elevated security and criminal-pattern concerns” reported by Emirati agencies. These red flags, he said, have led to an unofficial suspension of most visa categories for Pakistanis, including work visas, tourist visas and residency permits.
Linked Crime Concerns
The decision follows a recent high-profile incident in Dubai in which two men from Telangana, India, were killed in a bakery attack allegedly carried out by a Pakistani individual. UAE authorities have since intensified background checks and risk assessments on applications from Pakistan.
Officials in the Gulf region have also pointed to repeated cases of fraudulent documentation, financial crimes and violent offences involving some Pakistani nationals — prompting the government to prioritise public safety.
Diplomatic Implications
While the UAE has not issued a formal public notification, internal communication suggests that the restrictions may stay in place until security assurances and better vetting mechanisms are established. Pakistani diplomats have raised the matter with the UAE, but the Emirates maintains that its decisions are driven by national security considerations.
Migrant workers form a critical part of Pakistan's economy, and any prolonged visa freeze by the UAE — a major employment hub — could have significant economic consequences.
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