Urdu Report Desk
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has reportedly returned to its previous pace of visa issuance for Pakistani nationals, with around 30,000 visas being issued every month, according to diplomatic sources.
The reported development could signal an improvement in travel arrangements for Pakistanis and potentially reflect progress in bilateral relations. However, the monthly figure has been attributed to diplomatic sources and has not been independently confirmed in the supplied information.
The update comes amid continued attention to UAE visa processing and the deportation of Pakistani nationals in recent months. Travel agents are also reportedly helping applicants process their applications through available channels.
Around 2.2 Million Pakistanis Live and Work in the UAE
The UAE remains a major destination for Pakistani workers, professionals and businesspeople. Diplomatic sources estimate that approximately 2.2 million Pakistanis live and work in the Emirates across various sectors.
Trade and remittances remain important components of economic relations between the two countries. Pakistan’s Foreign Office has previously described annual bilateral trade as being close to $8 billion.
According to the Pakistani Consulate General in Dubai, remittances from the UAE to Pakistan exceeded $1 billion in May 2026 alone.
These financial transfers support Pakistani households and contribute to the country’s foreign exchange earnings. The two countries also cooperate in sectors including energy, banking, telecommunications, logistics and real estate.
UAE Ambassador’s Diplomatic Role
Diplomatic sources have credited UAE Ambassador to Pakistan Salem Mohammed Al Zaabi with contributing to efforts to improve relations between the two countries.
According to the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Al Zaabi assumed his role as ambassador in November 2025. His professional background includes senior positions in the UAE Armed Forces, defence cooperation and diplomacy.
Pakistan and the UAE have maintained diplomatic relations since the Emirates was established in 1971. Their cooperation spans trade, investment, defence, development assistance and cultural ties.
What the Visa Update Means for Pakistanis
If the reported monthly issuance of around 30,000 visas is accurate, the development could offer reassurance to Pakistanis planning to travel to the UAE.
Potential beneficiaries include people travelling for tourism, family visits and business activities, as well as companies that depend on cross-border movement.
However, visa issuance remains subject to approval by the relevant authorities and applicable requirements.
