Foreign Office rebuts reports of suspension of UAE visa for Pakistanis

ISLAMABAD: The Foreign Office on Wednesday denied reports that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) government has slapped a temporary ban on issuance of visit visa for Pakistani citizens.

Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr Muhammad Faisal said Dubai has not suspended issuance of visa for Pakistanis.

He said the foreign office has received no complaint in this regard and these reports circulating on social media networks are fake.

Earlier, it was reported that travel agents were informed UAE has halted the process of issuance of visa until further notice, cautioning people against booking plane tickets until withdrawal of the restriction.

“The ministry and immigration of UAE has temporarily suspended issuance of UAE visa for Pakistanis. Those who have visa already can travel,” a report said earlier.

The reports triggered a feeling of unease among people who wanted to travel to Dubai on the new year’s eve to witness spectacular celebrations.

The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs of Dubai has denied these rumours, reported Khaleej Times.

The GDRFA said “visitors from Pakistan are welcome to enter Dubai after obtaining a visa”.

“The situation is normal,” the official said.