The Excitement Surrounding Pakistan’s New Five-Year Multiple-Entry Visa to the UAE
The recent introduction of a five-year multiple-entry visa for Pakistanis has generated a wave of enthusiasm among Pakistani residents both in the UAE and across the globe. The announcement has brought about a sense of hope and possibility for many, with individuals starting to envision a brighter future for themselves and their families.
A Glimpse into Personal Aspirations
Fariya Iqbal, a teacher residing in Sharjah’s Al Tawoon area, is one of the many who have received the news with open arms. She describes the potential of this new visa as transformative—representing not just an opportunity to connect with family but also the prospect of starting a small business in the Emirates after selling off unused property back in Pakistan.
"If this goes ahead smoothly, I know a lot of people, including myself, who will seriously think about moving our base to the UAE,” Fariya shared. The prospect of her parents being able to join her more freely was particularly significant, as it would allow families like hers to strengthen their bonds and investments in a place they already consider home.
Official Confirmation and Details of the Visa
The UAE’s Ambassador to Pakistan, Hamad Obaid Ibrahim Salem Al Zaabi, confirmed the launch of this visa, citing resolutions reached between the two nations as the catalyst for this development. According to reports from the Dawn and Dubai’s General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA), the visa allows multiple visits for five years without the need for a guarantor or a local host, with tourists permitted to stay for up to 90 days per visit—extendable to 180 days within a year.
Travel Agencies Buzzing with Interest
Shortly after the announcement, travel agencies in the UAE found themselves inundated with inquiries. Dr. Zafar Tahir Rizvi from Vista Maritime, a Dubai-based travel agency, recounted the sheer volume of calls they received from Pakistani nationals around the globe, including not just residents in the Gulf, but also those in Europe and the US.
“Everyone wants to know how to apply and when they can start,” Dr. Zafar noted. The excitement surrounding the multiple-entry visa is palpable, with green card holders in the US even reaching out for guidance on using the visa to partially settle in the UAE.
The Broader Implications for Families
This new visa isn’t simply a travel document; it has the potential to alter familial dynamics significantly. Dr. Zafar pointed out that skilled professionals will find it easier to relocate, allowing families to live together without the constant stress of visa renewals. The need for health insurance as part of the visa is paramount, as having access to the UAE’s top-notch healthcare would not only alleviate fears but also enhance the overall quality of life for incoming families.
Abbas Khan from Muna Travels noted his agency’s proactive approach in collecting contact details from interested parties, eager to provide information as soon as the application process begins. “We have had nonstop enquiries since the announcement,” he said, echoing the waves of anticipation felt throughout the community.
Bridging Family Gaps
The emotional significance of this visa is deeply felt among individuals with family ties in Pakistan. Awais Ahmed, an engineer living in International City, expressed the joy of being able to have his parents visit his family more frequently.
"My children and wife recently moved to Dubai, and they are fond of my parents," Awais shared. The visa means they won’t have to settle for video calls anymore, as the possibility of real-life interactions becomes attainable.
Similarly, Mohammed Shuaib, an engineer in Ajman, highlighted how the visa simplifies family visits. He reminisced about the logistical difficulties faced previously, where every visit required an array of documents and approvals. Now, family members can come and go more freely, alleviating stress during significant life events such as weddings or emergencies.
The Path Ahead
As the community prepares to welcome their loved ones to the UAE and explore new avenues for opportunity, this new five-year multiple-entry visa is reshaping perceptions and expectations for many Pakistani families. “This feels like a dream,” Fariya reflected. The wait has been long, but the arrival of this visa is viewed as a milestone that carries the promise of meaningful change.
The collective hope seems to bridge the gap between dream and reality, as many aim to start anew in a country that has begun to feel more like home with each passing day. The implications are profound, beckoning a new era of connectivity and possibility for many Pakistani families eager for a brighter future.
