The Senate committee has confirmed no restrictions on UAE work visas for Pakistanis, despite concerns over begging by some Pakistani nationals. An unofficial closure on these visas has led to a decrease in the number of Pakistani workers traveling to the UAE. The committee plans to investigate further visa-related issues affecting Pakistani travelers.
The Senate Standing Committee on Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development has clarified that there are no restrictions on work visas for Pakistani citizens seeking employment in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). However, recent scrutiny over the rising incidence of Pakistani nationals engaging in begging within the UAE has prompted local authorities to implement stricter checks on travelers. Officials from the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) disclosed that numerous passengers have been offloaded from flights to deter this trend.
During a recent assembly, Committee Chairman Senator Zeeshan Khanzada reassured that work visa issues for Pakistanis would be addressed through the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis if needed. Conversely, Overseas Employment Promoter Aisam Baig stated that while work visas are still available, there has reportedly been an unofficial closure on them, resulting in a 50% decline in Pakistani workers traveling to the UAE. Baig clarified that although the UAE government raised concerns regarding begging, this pertains to individuals on visit visas rather than work visas.
In a broader context, Bureau of Immigration Director General Muhammad Tayyab noted an increase in skilled labor migration to the UAE, emphasizing that 64% of Pakistanis traveling to the UAE are skilled workers, primarily in the construction and service sectors. He acknowledged that the UAE’s acceptance of foreign workers, including those from Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh, has decreased. This highlights the increasing competitiveness in the labor market.
Committee members also probed the implications of police verification for visa applications. Secretary Arshad Mahmood affirmed that police verification is standard practice for work visas as different nations have specific requirements for credential validations. The committee ultimately recommended that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs investigate any potential visa restrictions affecting Pakistani travelers to the UAE.
The Senate Committee’s findings emerge against a backdrop of rising unease among Middle Eastern nations regarding the behavior of some Pakistani expatriates. The UAE’s response includes a thorough examination of passengers, particularly as instances of begging by Pakistanis have drawn criticism. As stakeholders discuss the trends in labor migration, the emphasis remains on balancing the need for skilled workers while addressing the concerns raised by host countries.
In summary, the Senate committee confirmed the absence of restrictions on work visas for Pakistanis intending to work in the UAE, despite claims of an unofficial closure to visa applications. The ongoing issues linked to begging among Pakistani travelers have necessitated stringent checks by authorities. As the UAE continues to refine its immigration policies, it is crucial for Pakistani officials to ensure a steady flow of skilled labor while addressing the issues faced by their nationals abroad.
Original Source: www.dawn.com
