UAE and Pakistan Strengthen Ties with Visa Waiver

Diplomatic Visa Waiver Introduced Between UAE and Pakistan

As of July 25, 2025, a visa waiver agreement has come into effect between the United Arab Emirates and Pakistan for individuals holding diplomatic and official passports. Under this mutual agreement, citizens of both countries with these types of passports can now enter the other country without a visa — applicable to all airports.

Strengthening Bilateral Relations

The visa waiver agreement was signed by the foreign ministries of the two countries in Abu Dhabi, during the 12th session of the Pakistan-UAE Joint Ministerial Commission. The purpose of the agreement is to further strengthen diplomatic relations between the two countries and to simplify the cooperation of their state administrations. Both parties viewed this step as a "brotherly gesture."

This relaxation represents a significant advancement in official governmental communication, eliminating previous administrative barriers during official trips. The visa waiver is applicable to entry at all UAE airports, while, based on the principle of reciprocity, UAE citizens can also travel visa-free to all airports in Pakistan with their diplomatic and official passports.

Not Applicable to All Travelers

It is important to emphasize that the newly enacted visa waiver is only valid for those holding diplomatic and official passports. Travelers with regular (private) passports are still subject to the usual visa procedures and requirements, so it is advisable to check the current visa conditions before traveling.

Close Relations Between Pakistan and the UAE

The decision reflects the close cultural, commercial, and diplomatic ties between the two countries. Currently, more than 1.7 million Pakistanis live and work in the UAE, making Pakistan one of the largest labor-supplying countries for the Emirates. Additionally, hundreds of thousands of tourists visit Dubai and other emirates from Pakistan every year, further strengthening people-to-people connections.

The official visa waiver is not just a symbolic gesture but a tangible step towards deepening cooperation between the two countries. It is expected that further agreements could follow this step, which may also ease business, tourism, or educational collaborations.

(The source of the article is the announcement by the Deputy Prime Minister of Pakistan.)