New Five-Year Multiple-Entry Visa Opens Doors for Pakistani Expats in Dubai

Dubai’s vibrant expat community, including a significant number of Pakistani residents, received exciting news with the introduction of a five-year multiple-entry tourist visa for Pakistanis, as announced by the UAE Ambassador to Pakistan, Hamad Obaid Ibrahim Salem Al Zaabi. This visa, now accessible following the resolution of diplomatic issues between the UAE and Pakistan, allows Pakistani nationals to visit the UAE multiple times over five years without requiring a local host or guarantor, according to Dubai’s General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).

Impact on Pakistani Expats

The new visa policy is a game-changer for Pakistani expats living in Dubai and across the UAE, where over 1.7 million Pakistanis reside, forming one of the largest expatriate groups. For families separated by borders, this visa facilitates frequent visits from relatives in Pakistan, strengthening familial ties. Dr. Zafar Tahir Rizvi, a partner at a Dubai-based travel agency, reported an overwhelming response, with travel agencies flooded by inquiries from Pakistanis in the UAE, Gulf countries, Europe, and even the US. One expat shared, “My parents can now visit Dubai whenever they want, instead of relying on video calls to connect with my children.”

Benefits for Expats and the UAE Economy

The visa aligns with Dubai’s vision to remain a global hub for tourism and business. By easing travel restrictions, it encourages longer stays and increased spending by visitors, boosting sectors like hospitality, retail, and real estate. The policy also enhances Dubai’s appeal as an expat-friendly destination, offering a high-quality lifestyle, tax-free income, and robust career opportunities. For Pakistani expats, the ability to bring family members for extended periods without complex sponsorship processes reduces administrative burdens and fosters a sense of belonging in the UAE.

How to Apply

The GDRFA has streamlined the application process, making it accessible through authorized travel agencies and online portals. Applicants need to provide standard documentation, including a valid passport, proof of financial stability, and health insurance. Travel agencies in Dubai have noted a surge in applications, advising expats to apply early to avoid processing delays due to high demand.

Broader Context for Expats

This visa announcement comes at a time when Dubai continues to attract expats globally, with over 240,000 British expats and 4 million Indian residents contributing to its multicultural fabric. However, expats should note challenges highlighted in recent reports, such as rising living costs (up 124% since 2020) and the lack of permanent residency options, as pointed out by relocation advisor Sarika Dubey. Despite these, the new visa policy underscores Dubai’s commitment to fostering inclusivity for its diverse expat population.

For Pakistani expats, this development not only simplifies family reunions but also reinforces Dubai’s position as a welcoming home away from home. As one expat remarked, “This visa makes Dubai feel even more like family.” For more details on the application process, expats can visit the GDRFA’s official website or contact local travel agencies.