Post by : Mumtaaz
Qadiri
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has announced its full support in making visa services easier and faster for Pakistani citizens, especially those applying for work visas. This assurance was given during a meeting in Abu Dhabi between the UAE's Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister, Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and Pakistan’s Federal Interior Minister, Mohsin Naqvi.
The meeting focused on improving visa application procedures, resolving difficulties faced by Pakistanis, and strengthening ties between the two countries. This positive development brings hope to thousands of Pakistanis who are seeking job opportunities in the UAE.
Friendly Ties Between UAE and Pakistan
During the discussion, Mohsin Naqvi appreciated the long-standing brotherly relationship between Pakistan and the UAE. He stated that Pakistani workers have played a major role in building the UAE’s economy, and many families in Pakistan depend on remittances sent by these overseas workers.
Naqvi shared concerns about the challenges faced by Pakistanis in the current visa process, including delays, unclear requirements, and rejection issues. Sheikh Saif listened carefully and promised to work closely with the UAE immigration and labor departments to remove all unnecessary barriers.
A Promise to Simplify Work Visas
Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan clearly stated that the UAE government will offer full cooperation to make the visa process smoother and more efficient. He assured that steps will be taken to reduce waiting times, clarify procedures, and fast-track work visa approvals for Pakistani applicants.
This commitment is a major relief for thousands of skilled and unskilled Pakistani workers who want to build their future in the UAE. It also reflects the UAE’s openness towards boosting its international workforce, especially from countries with which it has strong historical ties, like Pakistan.
Broader Talks on Security and Technology
The meeting didn’t only focus on visa issues. Both countries also discussed ways to increase cooperation in internal security. They agreed to work together on:
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Combating drug trafficking
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Preventing human smuggling
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Stopping illegal immigration
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Enhancing border security measures
Both sides acknowledged the growing use of technology in tackling crime and agreed to share advanced tools and systems, especially in the fields of artificial intelligence (AI) and data monitoring.
This was seen as an important step in strengthening bilateral security ties between Pakistan and the UAE.
Naqvi’s Visit to Abu Dhabi’s Modern Policing Center
As part of his official visit, Mohsin Naqvi also toured the Abu Dhabi Policing and Operations Center, which is one of the most technologically advanced security centers in the Middle East.
UAE officials gave Naqvi a detailed briefing about their monitoring systems, which use AI, facial recognition, smart surveillance, and real-time data analysis to keep the city safe and control crime.
Naqvi praised the UAE's smart policing model, calling it modern, efficient, and worth learning from. He showed interest in implementing similar systems back in Pakistan to improve public safety and control crime through technology.
Why This Matters for Pakistanis
This new cooperation means a lot for Pakistanis who dream of working in the UAE. The UAE is home to over 1.7 million Pakistani expatriates, many of whom are workers, professionals, and business owners. They contribute significantly to Pakistan’s economy through foreign remittances.
The promise to ease the visa process will
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Help more people travel for work without long delays.
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Improve transparency and fairness in visa approvals.
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Build stronger ties between the governments of the UAE and Pakistan.
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Open the door for more skilled and educated Pakistanis to work in the Gulf.
This development also helps in improving Pakistan’s image internationally and shows that diplomatic efforts are paying off.
Future Cooperation in Smart Technology
During the meeting, both sides also emphasized the role of technology in future cooperation, especially when it comes to internal security, digital border management, and AI-based crime detection systems.
The UAE is known for its cutting-edge digital infrastructure, and Pakistan hopes to learn and adopt these systems through technical exchange programs and joint projects.
Naqvi stated that Pakistan is also working on modernizing its police systems and border controls, and the UAE’s experience would be valuable in achieving this.
Strengthening Ties Across Multiple Sectors
Aside from visa and security, the ministers talked about strengthening cooperation across many sectors, such as
They reaffirmed their commitment to deepen their partnership in these areas, aiming to build a long-term, trust-based relationship.
What the Leaders Said
Minister Mohsin Naqvi said:
“The UAE is like a brother to Pakistan. We are thankful for the hospitality and support shown towards our workers. I am hopeful that these discussions will bring real change in visa and security matters.”
Sheikh Saif added:
“We deeply value our relationship with Pakistan. Our governments will work hand-in-hand to make things easier for Pakistani citizens, especially in visa matters.”
The meeting between the UAE and Pakistan marks a significant step forward for both countries. The focus on easing visa processes, improving worker mobility, and promoting security cooperation reflects a shared desire to build stronger and friendlier ties.
For Pakistanis, especially those looking for work opportunities in the Gulf, this is a positive sign. The visit also highlights how modern diplomacy and cooperation in technology can bring practical benefits to people on the ground.
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