ISLAMABAD: Pakistani citizens travelling to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will need a police verification report, Senate Standing Committee on Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development told on Monday.
The meeting, chaired by Senator Zeeshan Khanzada at Parliament House today, focused on thorough discussions regarding recommendations from previous sessions, particularly concerning the UAE’s unofficial visa restrictions, especially for employment visas.
Director General of the Bureau of Emigration of Overseas Employment Muhammad Tayyab said that under this directive no case of travelling to the Gulf country will now be allowed without proper police clearance. He further confirmed that all agents facilitating travel to the UAE have been instructed to adhere to the new requirement.
According to the statement issued by the Senate of Pakistan, Senator Khanzada sought clearance on the underlying problem faced by people seeking opportunities in foreign countries including the UAE.
In response, the Secretary Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis clarified that restrictions do not imply a complete denial. He explained that, as far as Dubai is concerned, there are no restrictions, and each country has its objectives.
Addressing concerns about employment visas, the ministry official clarified that while unskilled workers have faced delays, skilled labourers continue to receive UAE visas. “Approximately 700,000 workers have already gone abroad this year,” he said.
Additionally, Committee members were updated on dedicated immigration counters at arrival and departure lounges at all international airports for Overseas Pakistanis. Senator Nasir Mehmood highlighted the importance of maintaining overseas counters at airports, particularly during departures.
Senators Shahadat Awan, Gurdeep Singh, Nasir Mehmood, the Secretary of the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and HRD, and senior officials from Overseas Pakistan Foundation (OPF) and other concerned departments attended the meeting.
