Light
Dark

UAE Tightens Visa Rules, Rejects Over 50,000 Pakistani Applications in 2024

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) rejected more than 50,000 visa applications from Pakistani nationals in 2024, reflecting stricter scrutiny measures. The move follows concerns over a rising number of Pakistanis involved in begging and other unlawful activities, prompting UAE authorities to enforce stricter passenger screening.

Additionally, the UAE now requires Pakistani travelers to present a police character certificate before entering the country.

In the past 16 months, over 10,000 Pakistani citizens have been deported from the UAE. Reports indicate that from September 2023 to January 2025, at least 10,100 Pakistanis were sent back. Among them, 4,740 were convicted prisoners, while 5,800 faced deportation due to various criminal charges.

The crackdown on illegal activities involving Pakistani citizens is not limited to the UAE, as several countries have also tightened their regulations. Within the last 48 hours, 93 Pakistanis were deported from 10 nations, including Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Morocco, with six individuals being placed on a blacklist.

The UAE’s latest actions highlight a growing emphasis on security and law enforcement concerning foreign visitors.