Pareesa Afreen 
Nov 28, 2025
The United Arab Emirates is processing nearly 500 visas per day for Pakistani nationals, following new measures aimed at faster and more convenient applications, UAE Ambassador Salem M Salem Al Bawab Al Zaabi told Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb.
During a meeting in Islamabad, Al Zaabi announced various reforms that included online visa applications, an e-visa without passport stamping, system-to-system data integration with Pakistan, and opening a new visa centre to expedite the process.
He said such steps would increase the mobility of Pakistani nationals and ensure smoother travel.
The ambassador also praised the historic ties between Pakistan and the UAE, while recognising the contributions of Pakistani professionals working across the Emirates.
He pointed out that both countries are expanding cooperation in trade, investment, technology, agriculture, ports, logistics, and financial services.
Aurangzeb welcomed the UAE's updated visa facilitation, saying smoother mobility would support deeper private-sector collaboration and long-term investment.
He briefed Ambassador Al Zaabi on Pakistan's improving macroeconomic indicators, including stable reserves, easing inflation, a stronger currency outlook, and rising remittances from the UAE.
Earlier, Additional Interior Secretary Salman Chaudhry informed the Senate committee that the UAE visas were previously only granted to diplomatic and blue passport holders, citing concerns over passport misuse and human trafficking.
