UAE stops issuing visas to citizens from 13 countries including Pakistan, Iran and Turkey

[MenInG]

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has stopped issuing new visas to citizens of 13 mostly Muslim-majority countries, including Iran, Turkey, Syria and Somalia, according to a document issued by a state-owned business park.

The document, which was sent to companies operating in the park and was seen by the Reuters news agency, cited an immigration circular that came into effect on November 18.

It said applications for new employment and visit visas were suspended until further notice for nationals outside the UAE from countries including Afghanistan, Libya, and Yemen.

The visa ban also applies to citizens of Algeria, Kenya, Iraq, Lebanon, Pakistan and Tunisia, the document said.

It was not clear if there were any exceptions to the ban.
The UAE’s Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship had no immediate comment.

Security concerns

A source briefed on the matter said the UAE had temporarily stopped issuing new visas to Afghans, Pakistanis, and citizens of several other countries over security concerns.

The source did not say what those concerns were but said the visa ban was expected to last for a short period.

Last week, Pakistan’s foreign ministry said the UAE had stopped processing new visas for its citizens and those of some other countries.

Islamabad said it was seeking information from the UAE on the reason for the suspension but that it thought it was related to the coronavirus pandemic.

The Pakistani ministry and the source said those holding valid visas were not affected by the new restrictions and could enter the UAE.

 

[Varun]

Is it something to do with coronavirus?

 

[Deewana Mastana]

They never really issued visas on arrival anyways for those especially with a Pak passport.

So is this something different due to Covid-19?

 

[Gabbar Singh]

Is it something to do with coronavirus?

The USA, India, Italy, Brazil and Russia aren’t on that list so perhaps it’s something else - unless there was a previous announcement which took account of these nations?

 

[King-Misbah]

Who cares about UAE? Bunch of idiots.

I would advise all sane people to stop visiting the UAE.

 

[Salman]

The USA, India, Italy, Brazil and Russia aren’t on that list so perhaps it’s something else - unless there was a previous announcement which took account of these nations?

This is just the beginning, a lot is happening behind the scenes over the last few weeks. US & Israel politics are putting immense pressure on the Saudi's and UAE governments to make life extremely difficult for the Pakistani expats going forward due to Pakistan's unchanged stance on israel.

Documented case last week of Pakistani expats being seperated from a group of Indian, Bangladeshi and Sri Lankan travellers then being detained at the border between the UAE and Abu Dhabi.

Only the Pakistani's were detained and the rest allowed to cross, they had they passports taken away and made to stand in the 40 degrees heat for over 4 hours with no explanation. The mixed crowd of Pakistani elderly, women and children had their mobiles taken away when they started recording their ill treatment and told by the border police to ask Imran Khan to get their mobiles back.

 

[Nadeemp]

This has to do with recognition of Israel for Pakistan

 

[Varun]

This is just the beginning, a lot is happening behind the scenes over the last few weeks. US & Israel politics are putting immense pressure on the Saudi's and UAE governments to make life extremely difficult for the Pakistani expats going forward due to Pakistan's unchanged stance on israel.

Documented case last week of Pakistani expats being seperated from a group of Indian, Bangladeshi and Sri Lankan travellers then being detained at the border between the UAE and Abu Dhabi.

Only the Pakistani's were detained and the rest allowed to cross, they had they passports taken away and made to stand in the 40 degrees heat for over 4 hours with no explanation. The mixed crowd of Pakistani elderly, women and children had their mobiles taken away when they started recording their ill treatment and told by the border police to ask Imran Khan to get their mobiles back.

Hope at least those Pakistanis in question realize the fruits of their labour to the mythical Ummah cause.

The Pakistan-UAE relationship has been going downhill since the time Pakistan refused to send troops (read: mercenaries) to Yemen.

 

[Gabbar Singh]

The United Arab Emirates has temporarily stopped issuing new visas to citizens of Pakistan, Afghanistan and several mostly Muslim majority countries over security concerns, a source briefed on the matter told Reuters on Wednesday.

https://www.dawn.com/news/1592329/u...kistan-others-due-to-security-concerns-report

 

[Lurker_Ind]

Israel effect on UAE?

 

[Cpt. Rishwat]

This has to do with recognition of Israel for Pakistan

Israel seems really desperate to force Muslim recognition of their settler occupation of Palestine. Why is it so important to them? I read Mamoon crowing in another thread that all the Arab armies put together couldn't stand against Israel, so you would think they would just let the Arabs get on with their thing but instead they seem to be running here and there trying to get Islamic approval.

 

[Nadeemp]

Israel seems really desperate to force Muslim recognition of their settler occupation of Palestine. Why is it so important to them? I read Mamoon crowing in another thread that all the Arab armies put together couldn't stand against Israel, so you would think they would just let the Arabs get on with their thing but instead they seem to be running here and there trying to get Islamic approval.

Economics. To have trade partners, to gather forces against Iran. All these are reasons

 

[LongHorn]

This is just the beginning, a lot is happening behind the scenes over the last few weeks. US & Israel politics are putting immense pressure on the Saudi's and UAE governments to make life extremely difficult for the Pakistani expats going forward due to Pakistan's unchanged stance on israel.

Documented case last week of Pakistani expats being seperated from a group of Indian, Bangladeshi and Sri Lankan travellers then being detained at the border between the UAE and Abu Dhabi.

Only the Pakistani's were detained and the rest allowed to cross, they had they passports taken away and made to stand in the 40 degrees heat for over 4 hours with no explanation. The mixed crowd of Pakistani elderly, women and children had their mobiles taken away when they started recording their ill treatment and told by the border police to ask Imran Khan to get their mobiles back.

If you know Pakistanis in UAE (or Gulf) well, then you would know that unfortunately, no matter how awfully they are treated, some of them are the biggest in acting sycophantic....

That is what takes their self respect away.

Go to any social media site related to their rulers, a lot of the eulogies, praise, poems, statements of commitment and pledging to forever be loyal are from either Pakistani expats, or those Pakistani expats who just got citizenship for some reason.
In real life, they would be the ones driving around in tinted cars with a large "VIP" sticker, and dressed in Arab thobe but with a baseball cap or white headgear (not the black Iqal as they are not allowed to wear it)

There are Bengalis also who behave like that, but not to that extent

 

[gani999]

This is just the beginning, a lot is happening behind the scenes over the last few weeks. US & Israel politics are putting immense pressure on the Saudi's and UAE governments to make life extremely difficult for the Pakistani expats going forward due to Pakistan's unchanged stance on israel.

I think it has more to do with Pakistan and Turkey planning their own version of the OIC, than any Israeli connection. The Saudis are mightily ****** and have probably pressurised the UAE to act.

 

[gani999]

Is it something to do with coronavirus?

If so, Indians would have been banned first.

 

[in_cutter]

Reasons are obvious

Does this mean no more cricket in UAE for team Pakistan?

 

[HussainRx8]

There is more of a downside risk than upside. I think the relations between Pakistan and Gulf nations will deteriorate further.

Would be nice to hear from Pakistanis living in those countries.

 

[srh]

Is it something to do with coronavirus?

Then they would ban Indians before Pakistanis. Pakistan is doing much better than India on coronavirus front although I don't know why.

 

[Thomaskutty]

Reasons are obvious ?

which is ?

 

[El Generico]

Reasons are obvious

Does this mean no more cricket in UAE for team Pakistan?

Good riddance tbh. Cricket in UAE is extremely boring.

 

[Thomaskutty]

Good riddance tbh. Cricket in UAE is extremely boring.

Not just cricket, UAE might expel all pakistani workers too.

 

[El Generico]

Not just cricket, UAE might expel all pakistani workers too.

I doubt they are going to that, seems too extreme. From the article it seems like current visa holders will not be affected.

 

[BreadPakoda]

Who cares about UAE? Bunch of idiots.

I would advise all sane people to stop visiting the UAE.

Lol why? UAE isn’t that bad a country.

 

[saeedhk]

Ummah ka chummah! This is what happens when you are weak but try to punch above your weight by trying to act as the custodian of Islam.

By the way, we sent 150 rare falcons to the UAE a week or so back.

 

[DeadlyVenom]

Ummah ka chummah! This is what happens when you are weak but try to punch above your weight by trying to act as the custodian of Islam.

By the way, we sent 150 rare falcons to the UAE a week or so back.

Are the other 12 countries on the list also acting as custodians of Islam?

 

[Giannis]

Ummah ka chummah! This is what happens when you are weak but try to punch above your weight by trying to act as the custodian of Islam.

By the way, we sent 150 rare falcons to the UAE a week or so back.

uncle saab, you're really cringey

 

[cricketjoshila]

Covid affect?

 

[angrypathan]

Covid affect?

Surely India and the USA would be on the list then. Has to be another reason.

 

[Robbie]

The reason I'm told by my relative who lives there is that before landing in UAE after getting the visa visitor has to produce the result of the covid test in their native country which should not be older than a specified time period.
The test results of the citizens of banned countries are often found to be false when they are tested after reaching UAE

 

[LongHorn]

The reason I'm told by my relative who lives there is that before landing in UAE after getting the visa visitor has to produce the result of the covid test in their native country which should not be older than a specified time period.
The test results of the citizens of banned countries are often found to be false when they are tested after reaching UAE

That may apply to some countries, but definitely not to Turkey

The only reason Turkey, Algeria and Tunisia are on the list is because they are vocally anti-Israel (even if Turkey has relations)

 

[LongHorn]

Guess what, the specific bans imposed are same ones that Bangladeshis were subjected to between 2012 and 2019
That is 1) No new tourist visas (though this was relaxed after 2016)
2) No changing jobs

Apart from that Syrians, Iranians and Lebanese were every now and then subjected to these rules.

It is not a blanket ban, rather a way of collective punishment aimed at humilating

Let me tell me one major side effect of the the "no changing jobs" clause. It led to Bangladeshis to be forced to settle for lower salaries as they could not change jobs unlike Indians and Filipinos

This new clause will mean Pakistanis subject to the same thing
Turkish wont be affected that much as they will pack their bags and return if paid less

 

[angrypathan]

Guess what, the specific bans imposed are same ones that Bangladeshis were subjected to between 2012 and 2019
That is 1) No new tourist visas (though this was relaxed after 2016)
2) No changing jobs

Apart from that Syrians, Iranians and Lebanese were every now and then subjected to these rules.

It is not a blanket ban, rather a way of collective punishment aimed at humilating

Let me tell me one major side effect of the the "no changing jobs" clause. It led to Bangladeshis to be forced to settle for lower salaries as they could not change jobs unlike Indians and Filipinos

This new clause will mean Pakistanis subject to the same thing
Turkish wont be affected that much as they will pack their bags and return if paid less

Why were bans imposed on Bangladesh?

 

[Ertugrul_Bey]

At the rate EV industry is expanding, Sheiks black gold is about to turn into black dust. They are mostly uneducated and have nothing else to offer. Let’s see who will have the last laugh.

 

[gani999]

At the rate EV industry is expanding, Sheiks black gold is about to turn into black dust. They are mostly uneducated and have nothing else to offer. Let’s see who will have the last laugh.

The so-called 'uneducated sheiks' have used their oil money to turn a desert into a futuristic fantasy land and produce some of the best designed and most efficient cities in the world. They have improved the lives of their own citizens beyond belief and have even provided millions of jobs to poor people in countries like India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and others. They have also invested their money in blue-chip companies all over the world, some of which produce electric vehicles too. Do you really think they are so naiive that they don't know about the future of oil-based technologies?

The last laugh will be had by the sheiks who have secured their future with all their wealth, and not by the arrogant buffoons in places like Pakistan, India, Bangladesh and the Philippines who can't get a country running right if their lives depended on it.

 

[CRIC_FANtastic]

At the rate EV industry is expanding, Sheiks black gold is about to turn into black dust. They are mostly uneducated and have nothing else to offer. Let’s see who will have the last laugh.

This post is written with the presumption that the poster here is Pakistani. I also concede I am not very well informed on the subject, so please excuse me for any factual inaccuracies in my post below.

Just like in quotation above by Ertugrul_bey, I am really really surprised by reactions of many Pakistani on this Forum and social media. There are hundreds of message to dump OIC and build a separate front with Malaysia and Turkey.

I checked the remittance numbers from Saudi/UAE vs Malaysia/Turkey which is $11B USD vs less than 100M. How can you even think of harming your relation with Arab world in exchange of Malaysis/Turkey? I get it that Pakistanis are emotional people (as mentioned some where here on this forum also), but you can not afford to be suicidal by harming your own interest for the sake of pride and emotions.

If you are Pakistani, how can you be taunting the potential demise of Arab world, because I believe Pakistani economy will have major adverse effect. Just imagine hundreds of thousands of workers sent back to Pakistan. It means loss of precious remittance. Also, will Turkey absorb this large a labor force and provide them the employment? Looks like many of the posters are comfortably settled outside Pakistan, so they can afford to be emotional, as they are financially more secured. However, can Pakistan, a nation, afford the such high emotional tirade?

 

[Syed1]

Sorry to break Hindutva hearts but this news turned out to be fake.

 

[gani999]

Sorry to break Hindutva hearts but this news turned out to be fake.

https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/11/25/uae-halts-new-visas-to-citizens-of-13-mostly-muslim-states

https://www.dailysabah.com/politics...s-of-13-mostly-muslim-states-including-turkey

https://www.dawn.com/news/1592329

https://www.arabianbusiness.com/pol...itizens-of-13-mostly-muslim-countries-reports

You sure about the veracity of that one odd (Pakistani) source, mate?

 

[MenInG]

Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Overseas Pakistanis Zulfiqar Bukhari on Thursday denied media reports of the United Arab Emirates' move to suspend the issuance of work visas to Pakistanis, saying that there was "no ban on export of Pakistani workforce".

In a two-part tweet, Bukhari said that "contrary to media reports", UAE Minister for Human Resources and Emiratisation Nasser bin Thani Al Hamli had "categorically stated that there is no ban on export of Pakistani workforce". Furthermore, the UAE was giving priority to those workers, who were registered on the Virtual Labour Market Database and had been laid off due to the economic slump caused by Covid-19, Bukhari tweeted.

The tweets come a day after media reports that the UAE had temporarily stopped issuing new visas to citizens of Pakistan, Afghanistan and several mostly Muslim majority countries over security concerns.

On Thursday, the premier's aide added that there has been an 11 per cent increase Pakistani knowledge workers in the UAE. The Arab state was also encouraging applications for the 10-year golden visa, Bukhari said.

"Looking forward to continued collaboration with UAE leadership to address the issues of our diaspora," the special assistant to the prime minister on Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development said in his tweet.

The ruling PTI also tweeted about SAPM Bukhari's virtual meeting with the UAE minister, saying that the premier's aide wanted to "dispel the negative reports on ban on Pakistani workers".

Suspension of visas
The tweets come days after reports emerged that the UAE had temporarily stopped issuing visas to citizens of a dozen countries, including those of Pakistan. The Foreign Office had confirmed the development last week, saying that UAE's decision was "believed to be related to the second wave of Covid-19".

"We are seeking official confirmation from the concerned UAE authorities in this regard," FO spokesperson Zahid Hafeez Chaudhri had said, adding that the suspension was expected to last for a short time period.

However, yesterday media outlets reported that the visa issuance was stopped due to security concerns. The 13 countries, which would not be issued a visa for the time being, include Pakistan, Afghanistan and several mostly Muslim majority countries.

In a press briefing earlier today, FO spokesperson Chaudhri said that the change in UAE's visa policy has not been confirmed.

According to a document issued by a state-owned business park, UAE has stopped issuing new visas to citizens of 13 countries, including Iran, Syria and Somalia.

The document, which was sent to companies operating in the park, cited an immigration circular that came into effect on November 18.

It said applications for new employment and visit visas had been suspended for nationals, who are outside the UAE, of the 13 countries, including Pakistan, Afghanistan, Libya and Yemen, until further notice.

The visa ban also applies to citizens of Algeria, Kenya, Iraq, Lebanon, Tunisia and Turkey, the document says.

It was not clear if there were any exceptions to the ban.

 

[Syed1]

https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/11/25/uae-halts-new-visas-to-citizens-of-13-mostly-muslim-states

https://www.dailysabah.com/politics...s-of-13-mostly-muslim-states-including-turkey

https://www.dawn.com/news/1592329

https://www.arabianbusiness.com/pol...itizens-of-13-mostly-muslim-countries-reports

You sure about the veracity of that one odd (Pakistani) source, mate?

First of all I'm not your 'mate'. I cannot be mates with a Hindutva. Secondly, that 'Pakistani source' is the freaking federal minister of overseas and human resources development. It is literally his portfolio and the man in charge for this matter.


<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">1/2<br>Thankful to HE Nasser bin Thani Al Hamli(Minister of Human Resources & Emiratisation) for his continued support for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OverseasPakistanis?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OverseasPakistanis</a><br>-Contrary to media reports, he categorically stated there is NO BAN on export of workforce <br>-There has been 11% in knowledge workers</p>— Sayed Z Bukhari (@sayedzbukhari) <a href="https://twitter.com/sayedzbukhari/status/1331946087272357896?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">2/2<br>-Workers including Pakistanis laid off during <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Covid19?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Covid19</a> registered on Virtual Labour Market Database are given priority<br>-10yr golden visa applications are also being encouraged<br>Looking forward to continued collaboration with UAE leadership to address the issues of our diaspora</p>— Sayed Z Bukhari (@sayedzbukhari) <a href="https://twitter.com/sayedzbukhari/status/1331946089176510467?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

 

[El Generico]

So this whole thing turned to be fake news? It’s sad that all the concern the Indian posters showed for Pakistan was in vain.

 

[LongHorn]

No , its not fake news.

Bangladeshis were banned since 2012 with a similar ban
However there used to be news reports from UAE Government officials denying that there is any such ban
On the ground, every travel agent in UAE knows that since 10 days, any visa request for Pakistanis and others is not being approved

 

[LongHorn]

Why were bans imposed on Bangladesh?

Some people indulging in violent or trafficking crimes

 

[LongHorn]

There used to be unofficial bans on Syrians, Tunisians, for varying periods of times (some would be just for few months), but none of them are publicized in media

Who would know it? Travel agents and typing offices(who are the ones who submit visa applications_

there is no use saying there is no ban if visas for a particular nationality gets rejected all the time

 

[globalcitizen]

this time Aljazeera publishes this to undermine the Pakistan government

UAE halts new visas to citizens of 13 mostly Muslim states.

I wonder why Pakistan is mentioned in the article. Fake news Of course but why

https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/11/25/uae-halts-new-visas-to-citizens-of-13-mostly-muslim-states

 

[MenInG]

NIAMEY: Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi stressed upon the need to address visa restrictions imposed by the United Arabs Emirates (UAE) government in a meeting with their Minister of State Reem Al Hashimi.

The meeting came on the sidelines of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation's (OIC) 47th session of the Council of Foreign Ministers being held in Niamey, Niger.

A statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Saturday said Qureshi apprised Hashmi of the difficulties being faced by Pakistani citizens due to the recent visa restrictions. He underscored the need to address the issue at the earliest possible.

The FO said the two officials exchanged views on bilateral cooperation, coronavirus, Pakistan's participation at the UAE Expo and other matters of mutual interest.

The foreign minister stressed Islamabad's commitment to forge closer cooperation with the Emirates in diverse field.

Earlier this month, UAE stopped issuing new visas to citizens of 13 mostly Muslim-majority countries including Pakistan, Turkey, Afghanistan, Iran and Syria.

A source briefed on the matter told Reuters the visas had temporarily stopped being issued to Afghans, Pakistanis and citizens of several other countries over security concerns, but did not provide details of those concerns.

"The suspension is not applicable on already issued visas," the FO told Geo.tv on November 18. "The measure is believed to be related to the second wave of COVID-19. We are seeking official confirmation from the concerned UAE authorities in this regard."

https://www.geo.tv/latest/321055-fm...s-with-state-minister-reem-al-hashmi-at-niger

 

[Itachi]

First of all I'm not your 'mate'. I cannot be mates with a Hindutva. Secondly, that 'Pakistani source' is the freaking federal minister of overseas and human resources development. It is literally his portfolio and the man in charge for this matter.


<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">1/2<br>Thankful to HE Nasser bin Thani Al Hamli(Minister of Human Resources & Emiratisation) for his continued support for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OverseasPakistanis?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OverseasPakistanis</a><br>-Contrary to media reports, he categorically stated there is NO BAN on export of workforce <br>-There has been 11% in knowledge workers</p>— Sayed Z Bukhari (@sayedzbukhari) <a href="https://twitter.com/sayedzbukhari/status/1331946087272357896?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">2/2<br>-Workers including Pakistanis laid off during <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Covid19?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Covid19</a> registered on Virtual Labour Market Database are given priority<br>-10yr golden visa applications are also being encouraged<br>Looking forward to continued collaboration with UAE leadership to address the issues of our diaspora</p>— Sayed Z Bukhari (@sayedzbukhari) <a href="https://twitter.com/sayedzbukhari/status/1331946089176510467?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Should have read the whole thread where Pakistanis themselves writing that they were getting denied. Seems like he doesn't have a clue about what's going on in reality.

 

[Technics 1210]

Hospitality sector in UAE is taking a massive hit. Read reports hotel charges are dropping to 50 AED/night in some parts.

 

[MenInG]

Ok so here is the inside scoop.

The whole visa situation has been done to put pressure on Pakistan to play ball on the Israel matter.

 

[cricketjoshila]

Ok so here is the inside scoop.

The whole visa situation has been done to put pressure on Pakistan to play ball on the Israel matter.

If it is then its wrong. But Pakistan should have stayed away from criticizing UAE on Israel. Each country has their own foreign policy.

 

[rhony]

UAE and Israel are hitting it where it hurts. The remittances from the gulf countries are critical to Pakistan's economy. They also know they can easily replace these jobs with Indians or Philippinos

 

[LongHorn]

Ok so here is the inside scoop.

The whole visa situation has been done to put pressure on Pakistan to play ball on the Israel matter.

If you look at the 13 countries, then it is obvious

When the initial list of 12 countries came out, i felt that Algeria should have been there, and bingo the next day it became 13 , with Algeria part of the list

 

[Cpt. Rishwat]

UAE and Israel are hitting it where it hurts. The remittances from the gulf countries are critical to Pakistan's economy. They also know they can easily replace these jobs with Indians or Philippinos

But their reputation as representatives of the Islamic world goes down the drain. Iran and Turkey suddenly look like much more credible voices for those people. Bear in mind specifically that Gulf Arabs have crapped on their own people for oil wealth. Arab countries like Egypt, Morroco, Iraq, Algeria are all poor despite the flood of black gold in the region for the past century. But Emiratis have certainly done well out of it.

 

[rhony]

But their reputation as representatives of the Islamic world goes down the drain. Iran and Turkey suddenly look like much more credible voices for those people. Bear in mind specifically that Gulf Arabs have crapped on their own people for oil wealth. Arab countries like Egypt, Morroco, Iraq, Algeria are all poor despite the flood of black gold in the region for the past century. But Emiratis have certainly done well out of it.

Don't think UAE ever embraced or wanted to be a representative of the Islamic world. They were comparitively progressive to others.

As far as the OIC goes, it's not as relevant as a decade ago. OIC has no control over the religious extremists. They have done nothing to curb them and stop them from highjacking the religion. Oil money will slowly dry up. Time is ripe for investments into technology and friendship with tech stalwarts like US and Israel and pivot away from the old guard that's still clinging onto something that has disappeared years ago.

As far as muslim leadership goes, there is a vacuum. Pakistan can claim but being a nuclear power is their only weapon. It's an economically weak.country. Turkey hasn't been doing that well either. That's no hallmark of leadership. What we will see is strategic relationships from countries breaking away from old guards and friendships. World is going to change drastically in the next 2 decades and smart countries will position themselves accordingly. Being a leader of the Muslim world is not something UAE cares for at this point

 

[Cpt. Rishwat]

Don't think UAE ever embraced or wanted to be a representative of the Islamic world. They were comparitively progressive to others.

As far as the OIC goes, it's not as relevant as a decade ago. OIC has no control over the religious extremists. They have done nothing to curb them and stop them from highjacking the religion. Oil money will slowly dry up. Time is ripe for investments into technology and friendship with tech stalwarts like US and Israel and pivot away from the old guard that's still clinging onto something that has disappeared years ago.

As far as muslim leadership goes, there is a vacuum. Pakistan can claim but being a nuclear power is their only weapon. It's an economically weak.country. Turkey hasn't been doing that well either. That's no hallmark of leadership. What we will see is strategic relationships from countries breaking away from old guards and friendships. World is going to change drastically in the next 2 decades and smart countries will position themselves accordingly. Being a leader of the Muslim world is not something UAE cares for at this point

Not really a surprise since UAE isn't a country anyway. Even N. Prakash had to google it when I questioned what UAE represented.

 

[Gabbar Singh]

For the struggling economy of Pakistan, foreign remittances from expatriates are lifesavers, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is country’s second-largest source of remittances. In the last five years, 1.3 million Pakistanis have found jobs in the UAE. In 2019 alone, Pakistani expatriates in UAE sent more than US$5 billion (A$6.725 billion) back home.

A changing geopolitical scenario, however, could result in the drying up of this source of financial support for Pakistan.

On 18 November, UAE banned the issue of work visas to Pakistanis, along with the nationals of a few other Muslim countries. Initially, Pakistan’s Foreign Office claimed the ban was due to Covid-19. However, India has more Covid-19 cases per capita than Pakistan, but no ban was imposed on visas for Indian nationals. A week later, it was revealed that the visa ban was due to security reasons and not Covid-19.

Political pundits quickly attributed the UAE decision to Pakistan’s latest foreign policy flip-flops, which have angered Gulf states.

UAE has made a calculated decision, most likely on the advice of Saudi Arabia, and will not reverse it merely on the request of Pakistani leadership.

UAE is a country essentially run by expatriates – out of a total population of 9.8 million, 90% are expatriates. Indians make up the largest foreign nationality in UAE, with a population of 2.6 million, followed by 1.2 million Pakistanis, 700,000 Bangladeshis, and over half a million Filipinos.

But now that new aspirants from Pakistan cannot get work visas for UAE, and many have already returned home due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the number of Pakistani expatriates in UAE will fall sharply.

What will Pakistan lose, economically? The second-largest source of its foreign remittances. In the month of October alone, before the visa ban, Pakistanis sent $504 million back home from UAE. At this average, Pakistan could have received foreign remittances of $6 billion from UAE in fiscal year 2020–21, which it now will not get.

These numbers are significant for Pakistan’s economy, because the total foreign exchange reserves of the country stand at over $20 billion. The current account deficit is $160 million and the balance of trade stands at a deficit of $17 billion. This means that Pakistan badly needs foreign currency to pay for its import bills, most notably oil.

Besides, Pakistan’s ailing economy has no employment opportunities for people who would otherwise have found work in the UAE. This will not only keep the unemployment rate high, but will also increase political pressure on Pakistan’s government to create jobs. Therefore, the UAE visa ban will cost Pakistan’s economy dearly.

Further adding salt to the wound is that jobs lost by Pakistan in UAE are apparently going to Indian nationals. Pakistani media has reported that one recruitment agency in Rawalpindi city alone lost 3000 jobs in UAE which were filled by its Indian competitor. This is just one case, and many such instances are expected in the coming months. Former Senator Enver Baig, who runs a recruitment agency, told the media that Pakistan is losing 800 to 1000 jobs per day in UAE, and India is benefitting from the loss.

So why has UAE banned the issue of work visas to a fellow Islamic country? The answer lies in the Pakistani government’s foreign policy decisions, which have irked the Gulf monarchies. Pakistan has aligned itself with the Turkey-Iran-Malaysia bloc in the Muslim world, which is challenging Saudi Arabia’s leadership. In December 2019, Saudi Arabia and its closest ally UAE strong-armed Pakistan out of the Kuala Lumpur Summit, organised by the Turkey-Iran-Malaysia bloc, using the threat of economic sanctions.

During the last 12 months, further rifts developed between Islamabad and the Gulf states, reaching their lowest point when Pakistan’s Foreign Minister strongly criticised Gulf states for not supporting Pakistan on the issue of Kashmir. Subsequently, Saudi Arabia demanded Pakistan repay its loans, cancelled investment commitments of $20 billion in Pakistan, and also asked its ally UAE to choke Pakistan economically by suspending work visas to its citizens.

This scenario has left Pakistan with limited options to salvage the situation. UAE rulers will soon be in Pakistan on their annual hunting trip. Pakistan’s government officials are under pressure to meet UAE rulers during their visit and request they suspend the visa ban.

Such a move is unlikely to work: UAE has made a calculated decision, most likely on the advice of Saudi Arabia, and will not reverse it merely on the request of Pakistani leadership.

This leaves Pakistan in the uncomfortable dilemma of recalibrating its foreign policy entirely – meaning it has to withdraw its support for the Turkey-Iran-Malaysia bloc. Pakistan’s government is finding out that it cannot make independent foreign policy decisions against countries on which it is economically dependent. The prudent approach would be to align itself diplomatically with countries from which it gets economic benefits (i.e., Gulf states), as opposed to the Turkey-Iran-Malaysia bloc, which has little to offer Pakistan’s economy.

https://www.lowyinstitute.org/the-interpreter/dilemma-pakistan-uae-cuts-work-visas

 

[cricketjoshila]

Is this because pakistan made uncharitable remarks on UAE's decision to normalise relationship with Israel?

 

[MenInG]

UAE Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan has said the decision to suspend the issuance of visas to Pakistani citizens was taken due to the coronavirus pandemic and the restrictions are "temporary", it emerged on Sunday.

The United Arab Emirates had last month temporarily stopped issuing new visas to citizens of Pakistan and at least 11 other mostly Muslim majority countries

In a statement on Saturday, Foreign Minister Nahyan "affirmed the depth of the bilateral relations between the United Arab Emirates and Pakistan, and recalled the keenness of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan on the relations during the early stages of establishment".

He stressed "the temporary nature of the recent restrictions imposed on the issuance of visas due to the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic", according to the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs & International Cooperation.

The move comes as a surprise because, even though Covid-19 infections and deaths have seen a rise in Pakistan in recent weeks, the country has been praised by the World Health Organisation, among others, for its handling of the health crisis. Some other countries with much higher caseloads were not barred by the UAE.

The statement was issued after Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi paid a two-day official visit to the UAE during which he held meetings with the top Emirati leadership.

Qureshi had met Nahyan on Thursday. He had apprised his counterpart of the difficulties being faced by the Pakistani community in the UAE, but no discussion about the visa issue was made public at the time.

During Qureshi's visit, the two sides exchanged views on the latest developments in the region and discussed ways to coordinate responses on issues of interest, the UAE foreign ministry said.

Nahyan "affirmed the depth of the distinguished relations between the two friendly countries and the keenness to enhance and develop further aspects of joint cooperation across all fields".

He reiterated the UAE’s appreciation of the Pakistani community in the Gulf country, saying more than 1.5 million members of the Pakistani diaspora enjoyed safety and stability in "their second country the UAE". He also praised their "great role and active contribution" to the growth and prosperity of the UAE.

Recalling that Pakistan was among the first countries to establish diplomatic relations with the UAE, Nahyan said the two friendly peoples and countries shared strong historical ties that "enhance prospects of their broad cooperation across all fields", according to the ministry's handout.

"The close relations between the UAE and Pakistan have continued to strengthen over the past decades and translated into multi-faceted cooperation, which represents a unique case in Arab-Asian relations in the region, as political relations between the UAE and Pakistan are based on a long history of joint action, trust, and respect," the UAE foreign minister said.

"The UAE and Pakistan enjoy close relations and historical ties across political, economic, cultural and social domains, established on solid foundations of mutual friendship and respect."

In a statement on Sunday, the Foreign Office in Islamabad said Foreign Minister Qureshi in his meetings with the Emirati leadership had raised the issues pertaining to visa restrictions on Pakistani nationals as well as the welfare of the Pakistani diaspora in the UAE, among other matters.

"Qureshi was assured that the visa restrictions were temporary in nature and were imposed due to the outbreak of Covid-19 pandemic," it added.

After the UAE visa suspension in November, the Foreign Office had said the decision was "believed to be related to the second wave of Covid-19" but added that it had reached out to UAE to seek further clarity. The FO had, however, made clear that the suspension did not apply to those already holding valid visas.

Days later a report revealed the UAE had temporarily suspended the visas over security concerns. A source privy to the matter did not say what those concerns were but said the visa ban was expected to last for a short period.

Following that report, the FO denied there were security concerns that led to such a measure but this time said changes in UAE's visa policy had not been confirmed.

 

[Gabbar Singh]

UAE Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan has said the decision to suspend the issuance of visas to Pakistani citizens was taken due to the coronavirus pandemic and the restrictions are "temporary", it emerged on Sunday.

The United Arab Emirates had last month temporarily stopped issuing new visas to citizens of Pakistan and at least 11 other mostly Muslim majority countries

Yet no blanket ban for Americans, Indians, Brazilians, Russians, Brits, Italians etc?

 

[MenInG]

ISLAMABAD: Prime Min*ister Imran Khan and Emi*rati Crown Prince She*ikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on Saturday agreed on improved bilateral ties.

“Prime Minister Imran Khan had a telephone conversation with His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces,” the Prime Minister Office said.

“The two leaders reaffirmed the existing close fraternal relations between Pakistan and the UAE and reiterated the resolve to further solidify and strengthen the multifaceted bilateral relationship,” it added.

The telephone call took place in the backdrop of reports that the UAE had rolled over its $1 billion loan for Pakistan for another year. The UAE had in 2019 provided $2bn to Pakistan to strengthen its foreign exch*ange reserves. The remaining loan of $1bn would mature in March and is also likely to be rolled over.


Relations between the two countries turned lukewarm last year because of geopolitical developments. The UAE last November enf*orced visa restrictions for Pakistanis because of sec*urity considerations. There were also reports of ******tani expatriates facing difficulties in renewal of their permits and other instances of discrimination. Some Pakistanis were picked up by the Emirati security agencies.

Nearly 1.2 million Pakistanis live and work in the UAE, who send back approximately $5bn in remittances annually. The Emirati restrictions on Pakistanis meant increased financial pressure on the country.

Most of the jobs being lost by Pakistanis in UAE, according to local manpower recruiters, are going to the Indians.

Islamabad was, therefore, quick to move to mend fences with the UAE.

Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi visited UAE in December, where he took up issues pertaining to welfare of Pakistani diaspora in the Emirates with the Emirati government.

Mr Qureshi, while speaking in the Senate on Monday, said he was assured by his Emirati counterpart that UAE values its ties with Pakistan and growth in their relations with India would not be at the cost of Pakistan.

Crown Prince Mohamed bin Zayed was in Pakistan on a private hunting trip in January. He, however, unlike previous years did not visit Islamabad.

The PMO said that Mr Khan and MbZ, during their telephone conversation, agreed to continue working closely to enhance bilateral ties as well as cooperation in multilateral organisations.

“They also exchanged views on Covid-19 pandemic and regional and international issues of mutual interest,” the statement said.

APP adds: Prime Minister Imran Khan on Saturday while stressing on vocational training and skill development said imparting modern skill training could better help explore the youth’s potential.

Chairing a meeting for promotion of knowledge economy in the country, the prime minister said technical and professional training should be designed in accordance with market needs besides building a strong link between educational institutions and the market.

Education Minister Shafqat Mahmood, secretaries of planning and education ministries, head of Task Force on Science and Technology Dr Attaur Rehman, Prof Shoaib Khan, Prof Nasir Khan and senior officers attended the meeting.

At another meeting, Prime Minister Khan held out the assurance that federal government would extend all out support to promote tourism and environmental and forest conservation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

The prime minister while meeting some parliamentarians assured them of expansion of Swat Motorway.

Published in Dawn, February 7th, 2021

 

[Firebat]

Pakistan, UAE agree to ease travel between both countries

Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates have agreed to facilitate the ease of travel between the two countries, strengthen cooperation in diverse fields, and reinforce mutual support in multilateral organisations, Radio Pakistan reported on Sunday.

During a telephonic conversation, Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi and his UAE's counterpart Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al-Nahyan expressed satisfaction with the progress in bilateral relations.

FM Qureshi conveyed his heartfelt condolences from the government and people of Pakistan on the sad demise of Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Finance Minister of the UAE, Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al-Maktoum.

Offering prayers for the departed soul, the minister paid rich tribute to the life and services of Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid, remembering him as a good friend of Pakistan.

https://www.geo.tv/latest/342025-pakistan-uae-agree-to-strengthen-cooperation-in-diverse-fields

 

[MenInG]

ISLAMABAD: Islamabad on Monday again called on the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to ease visa restrictions on Pakistanis.

Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi, who is on a visit to UAE, in his meeting with the Emirati Minister for Tolerance and Coexistence, Sheikh Nahyan Mabarak Al Nahyan, and Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Ahmed bin Ali Al Sayegh raised the issue of visa restrictions on Pakistanis, according to a readout issued by the Foreign Office.

“The foreign minister briefed Sheikh Nahyan about the issues faced by the Pakistani community, in particular the restrictions on visa-related matters. He stressed the importance of resolving them at the earliest,” the FO said.

Sheikh Nahyan is an influential member of the Emirati royal family. He has investments in Pakistan’s telecom and banking sector. He also owns a personal gaming reserve in Sindh.

Mr Qureshi in his meeting with Mr Sayegh, according to FO, also took up the issue of visa restrictions.

In November last year, the UAE banned work visas for Pakistani nationals. Although the ban was imposed along with similar restrictions on a number of Muslim countries, Pakistan that heavily relies on remittances from the Emirates was particularly affected.

The restrictions were attributed to Covid-19 pandemic, but many believe that the move was based on security considerations in the aftermath of important geo-political developments that happened towards the end of the last year.

There were also reports of Pakistanis expatriates facing difficulties in the renewal of their permits and other instances of discrimination. Some Pakistanis were picked up by the Emirati security agencies.

About 1.6 million strong Pakistani Diaspora lives in the UAE.

Mr Qureshi underscored “the positive role” played by the Pakistani expatriates towards development of both countries and noted that the UAE leadership had been “considerate” towards expatriates.

The FO said Sheikh Nahyan acknowledged the positive contribution of the Pakistani expatriates to the UAE’s progress.

The two leaders discussed the prospects of enhancing bilateral cooperation particularly in the fields of investment, tourism and related infrastructure.

The two ministers also exchanged views on the importance of tolerance and coexistence in presenting the true image of Islam and the Islamic society, besides discussing EXPO 2020 Dubai. Pakistan is having a pavilion at the exhibition slated to be held in October. The pavilion aims at successfully showcasing Pakistan’s ‘Hidden Treasure’.

Mr Qureshi was scheduled to meet his counterpart Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan later in the evening.

Border security and trade feature high on the foreign minister’s agenda in Tehran.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh, according to Irna, said at a virtual press conference on Monday that Mr Qureshi’s visit to Tehran was important. He noted that the relations between the two countries are deep and wide.

Mr Khatibzadeh said that besides discussing bilateral issues the two sides will open the third cross-border gateway between the two countries.

The two sides are expected to discuss Afghan peace process during the foreign minister’s trip.

Mr Qureshi would travel to Istanbul for participating in the Afghan peace conference being held there.

Published in Dawn, April 20th, 2021

 

[LongHorn]

Just as a reminder for those whole were claiming the restrictions were because of high Covid in Pakistan and Turkey and so on

Indians still can enter without any restrictions whatsoever in spite of the current spike there

 

[gazza619]

Just as a reminder for those whole were claiming the restrictions were because of high Covid in Pakistan and Turkey and so on

Indians still can enter without any restrictions whatsoever in spite of the current spike there

Politics I guess.

Its getting more and more clearer who your friends are in this Covid world.

 

[Cpt. Rishwat]

Just as a reminder for those whole were claiming the restrictions were because of high Covid in Pakistan and Turkey and so on

Indians still can enter without any restrictions whatsoever in spite of the current spike there

Hope the UAE doesn't get slammed by the new double mutant virus which has hit the UK.

We too tried to play politics for profit, and it has backfired badly with thousands of Indians streaming into the UK sending the infections into spike mode.

 

[Napa]

Hope the UAE doesn't get slammed by the new double mutant virus which has hit the UK.

We too tried to play politics for profit, and it has backfired badly with thousands of Indians streaming into the UK sending the infections into spike mode.

Indians caused the spike in UK? Do you have a source for this or is this just one of your delusions?

 

[PakLFC]

I say so again that Pak is terrible at diplomacy. We always tend to end up with the short end of the stick. Even when Covid is much worse in other countries we can't convince the world where we stand. Soon we will hear of a Pak mutant as well.

 

[SpiritOf1903]

Indians caused the spike in UK? Do you have a source for this or is this just one of your delusions?

Allowing thousands in, to various parts of the Uk with no quarantine when it's reaking havoc in India?. No, zero link

 

[Napa]

Allowing thousands in, to various parts of the Uk with no quarantine when it's reaking havoc in India?. No, zero link

It was already there in Britain. If you have evidence that the spike happened due to travelers from India, please share the reference.

Generally speaking international travelers are tested before and after travel.

 

[cric_man]

Indians caused the spike in UK? Do you have a source for this or is this just one of your delusions?

https://inews.co.uk/news/health/indian-variant-cases-new-covid-strain-uk-figures-latest-news-963434

The Indian coronavirus variant which has led to a surge of cases on the sub-continent is now rising faster in the UK than any other variant leading scientists to question whether the Government taking enough action to stop its spread.

Latest figures show the variant is doubling in number every week – there are now 182 cases of B1617 in the UK, according analysis of real-time data by the Covid-19 Genomics UK Consortium with the vast majority of them emerging in the last four weeks. Last week it was reported there were 77 cases. The number of UK confirmed cases is 103, Health Secretary Matt Hancock told the House of Commons on Monday.
.
.
.
.
Professor Pagel said the UK may become the first country to provide such definitive evidence as the country is among the best in the world at sequencing.

“But by the time we do, B1617 is likely to be quite widespread and it might be too late to contain it,” she said. “At current rate of growth, we could be seeing 1,000 B1617 cases a week in 4-5 weeks. Still not massive but very hard to contain without more restrictions. It could be dominant by the end of June – 10-12 weeks away. It depends on what is driving its growth.

 

[cricketjoshila]

https://inews.co.uk/news/health/indian-variant-cases-new-covid-strain-uk-figures-latest-news-963434

From the same link

B1617 remains a variant under investigation (VUI) meaning cases do not trigger surge testing or forensic contact tracing, as there is no definitive proof it is either more infectious or more vaccine resistant. Variants of concern (VOC), such as those first identified in Kent (B117), Brazil (P1) or South Africa (B1351), automatically trigger surge testing or forensic contact tracing.

 

[cricketjoshila]

It was already there in Britain. If you have evidence that the spike happened due to travelers from India, please share the reference.

Generally speaking international travelers are tested before and after travel.

The UK variant is the most common one in UK and Europe and now India.

 

[Napa]

https://inews.co.uk/news/health/indian-variant-cases-new-covid-strain-uk-figures-latest-news-963434

Inaccurate statistical inference.

"there are now 182 cases of B1617 in the UK". There were about 20,000 new cases in the UK last week, so the 182 cases is less than 1% and definitely not the cause of the "spike". Actually there is no "spike" in the UK, number of cases has been steadily falling the last couple of weeks.

https://www.worldometers.info/coronavirus/country/uk/

In the future, the Indian variant may become significant in the UK, right now it is delusional to think the Indian variant has led to any sort of "spike" in the UK.

There are lots of variants as can be expected from a flu kind of virus. A South African variant, a British variant, a Brazilian variant, an Indian variant etc.

In fact the UK variant is now the dominant strain in the US. So if anyone should be blaming anyone, it should be the US blaming UK rather than "backfired badly with thousands of Indians streaming into the UK sending the infections into spike mode" which is just delusional.

"U.K. coronavirus variant is now the dominant strain in the U.S., CDC says"

https://www.nbcnews.com/science/science-news/uk-coronavirus-variant-now-dominant-strain-us-rcna606

The adult thing to do is not to play a silly blame game but rather try to do our personal best to beat the virus.

 

[MenInG]

Qatar announces on-arrival visa for Pakistanis

DOHA: Pakistanis can now get Qatar’s visa on arrival as the Gulf state has announced a new immigration policy and issued directives to the concerned authorities in this regard.

According to details, Pakistani citizens would be granted a 30-day tourist visa upon arrival at the airport for a fee of QAR 100 valid for a period of 30 days which can be extended for the same period.

Visa conditions
Valid passport for at least 06 months
Confirmed return ticket
Polio vaccination certificate
Confirmed hotel reservation in one of the country's hotels during the visit period.
Fully vaccinated with vaccines approved by the Ministry of Public Health and completing a period of 14 days after the last dose.

Must have a certificate confirming negative PCR test completed during 48 hours from the time of arrival.
The visitors have been asked to register themselves on the Ehteraz platform to obtain the approval of Qatar’s Ministry of Public Health before travelling.

Passengers who have not received both doses of the vaccine 14 days prior to arrival will NOT be allowed to ente

https://www.geo.tv/latest/360169-qatar-announces-on-arrival-visa-for-pakistanis

 

[shehzi]

Are work visas being issued by UAE to pakistanis now ?

 

[gazza619]

UAE has an agenda and i am sure our establishment knows that.

 

[OMB]

Inaccurate statistical inference.

"there are now 182 cases of B1617 in the UK". There were about 20,000 new cases in the UK last week, so the 182 cases is less than 1% and definitely not the cause of the "spike". Actually there is no "spike" in the UK, number of cases has been steadily falling the last couple of weeks.

https://www.worldometers.info/coronavirus/country/uk/

In the future, the Indian variant may become significant in the UK, right now it is delusional to think the Indian variant has led to any sort of "spike" in the UK.

There are lots of variants as can be expected from a flu kind of virus. A South African variant, a British variant, a Brazilian variant, an Indian variant etc.

In fact the UK variant is now the dominant strain in the US. So if anyone should be blaming anyone, it should be the US blaming UK rather than "backfired badly with thousands of Indians streaming into the UK sending the infections into spike mode" which is just delusional.

"U.K. coronavirus variant is now the dominant strain in the U.S., CDC says"

https://www.nbcnews.com/science/science-news/uk-coronavirus-variant-now-dominant-strain-us-rcna606

The adult thing to do is not to play a silly blame game but rather try to do our personal best to beat the virus.

Even if Indian Variants were the reason I don't what fault it is of India? Maybe Britain and even then why do all these kind of talk?
Obviously if we continue pursuing this chain of thought it would lead all the way to China and no new info gained this way