The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has introduced stricter visa regulations for Pakistani nationals, resulting in a significant rise in visa rejections.
New Requirements for UAE Visit Visa Applicants from Pakistan
According to Sadiq Sabir, a member of the Executive Board of the Travel Agents Association of Pakistan (TAAP), Pakistani travelers now face tougher requirements for UAE visit visas.
Key Requirements for UAE Visa Applications
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum Bank Statement | PKR 1 million (approx. USD 3,500) |
| Confirmed Return Ticket | Mandatory for all applicants |
| Hotel Booking | Must be confirmed prior to visa submission |
These additional conditions have significantly reduced the number of approved applications.
Staggering 99% Rejection Rate for Visa Applications
The visa rejection rate for Pakistani applicants has reached an alarming 99%. On average, around 2,000 applications are submitted daily from Lahore, with most being denied.
Estimated Financial Loss per Rejected Application
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost (in AED) |
|---|---|
| Visa Fees | AED 300 – AED 500 |
| Hotel Booking Charges | AED 800 – AED 1,200 |
| Return Ticket | AED 400 – AED 500 |
| Total Estimated Loss | AED 1,500 – AED 2,000 |
Since visa fees and hotel booking costs are non-refundable, applicants bear the full financial burden.
Reason Behind UAE’s New Visa Policy
The UAE government has reportedly introduced these measures to prevent the misuse of visit visas for illegal activities. While the intention is to curb illegal immigration, the stringent rules have created difficulties for genuine tourists and business travelers.
Impact on Pakistani Travelers and the Travel Industry
The high rejection rates and strict visa requirements have raised serious concerns among Pakistani citizens. Many have been forced to cancel travel plans, resulting in financial losses and frustration.
Key Impacts of the New Visa Policy
| Impact Area | Details |
|---|---|
| Tourism | Significant drop in Pakistani tourists visiting UAE |
| Business Travel | Delays and difficulties for business travelers |
| Travel Agencies | Loss of business and revenue |
| UAE Economy | Potential reduction in revenue from Pakistani visitors |
Travel industry experts warn that these policies could harm the UAE’s tourism sector, as Pakistani travelers contribute significantly to local businesses, including hotels, airlines, and retail stores.
Concerns Raised by Pakistani Citizens and Travel Agents
Both travelers and travel agencies in Pakistan have expressed concern over the new policy. Many urge the UAE government to introduce a clearer and fairer visa process to prevent unfair treatment of legitimate travelers.
