In a major setback for Pakistan, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has suspended the issuance of short-term transit visas for Pakistani passport holders.
According to Pakistani journalist and analyst Qamar Cheema, the UAE has stopped issuing 48-hour and 96-hour transit visas.
This suspension will continue until further notice, and officials have advised people not to apply under these categories.
This decision has created problems for Pakistani professionals and travelers who use the UAE as a transit hub for international flights.
UAE Transit Visa Suspension for Pakistanis
So far, the UAE government has not officially explained the reason for this move or how long the suspension will remain in effect. However, Qamar Cheema stated that getting a UAE visa has become extremely difficult for Pakistanis.
He also mentioned that the UAE has asked Pakistan to repay a $2 billion loan within two months, which may have added pressure to the situation.
Transit visas are mainly used for short stopovers in cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi. With this ban in place, many travelers may face difficulties.
Business travelers with tight schedules may need to change their travel routes, leading to extra costs and delays.
Students returning from universities abroad and families visiting relatives in other countries may also have to look for alternative transit options.
Growing UAE–India Ties and Rising Tensions with Pakistan
Cheema further said that while the UAE is restricting transit visas for Pakistanis, it is also strengthening its relationship with India.
He described this as a clear message to Pakistan — that it should not assume the UAE will continue to offer special support or friendship.
According to his analysis, one of the reasons behind the UAE’s distancing from Pakistan could be Islamabad’s growing closeness to Saudi Arabia.
Last year, Pakistan signed a defense agreement with Saudi Arabia. In addition, Pakistan entered into defense deals in Sudan and Libya, which reportedly upset the UAE.
Overall, the suspension of transit visas is likely to have a significant impact on Pakistani travelers and may reflect broader diplomatic tensions in the region.
