Islamabad, Feb 20: Pakistan’s Ambassador to the UAE, Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, has described visa challenges faced by Pakistani nationals as a serious and significant issue, confirming that both Islamabad and Abu Dhabi are actively working toward a solution.
In an interview with Arab News, Tirmizi acknowledged the growing difficulties in visa approvals, particularly over the past year. He attributed the rise in visa rejections to concerns surrounding document authenticity, legal violations, and political activities by certain applicants. The issue, he assured, has been raised at the highest levels with UAE authorities.
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One of the key factors behind the increased scrutiny is the UAE’s adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) for document verification. The ambassador explained that while some applicants possess genuine qualifications, discrepancies in document attestation have led to rejections. This has particularly affected individuals seeking employment in the UAE, as verification processes have become more stringent.
Tirmizi further highlighted a shifting job market in the UAE, noting that the demand for unskilled labor has decreased, while industries such as IT, artificial intelligence, and healthcare are expanding. He urged Pakistan to prioritize skill development and professional training to align with the UAE’s evolving workforce needs.
Despite visa-related concerns, remittances from the UAE to Pakistan have witnessed a sharp increase, surging 53.9% year-on-year. Projections suggest that remittances could reach $3.58 billion in FY2025, reinforcing the UAE’s role as a crucial economic partner for Pakistan.
While efforts are underway to resolve visa issues, the ambassador emphasized the importance of improving education and vocational training, ensuring that Pakistani workers remain competitive in the international job market.
