Pakistani expatriates in the UAE, job-seekers, and visitors on visit visas are urged to familiarize themselves with and adhere to all local rules and regulations, according to a video advisory issued by the missions. 'The aim of this video is to inform Pakistanis in the UAE and those planning to visit about the local laws, their rights, and responsibilities to avoid any legal issues,' stated Hussain Muhammad, Consul-General at the Pakistan Consulate in Dubai. Non-compliance with local laws can lead to court appearances, imprisonment, fines, and even deportation, the advisory warned.
To assist individuals, the video outlined that Dubai visas for Pakistani nationals can be verified through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs-Dubai (GDRFA). Visas issued by other emirates—Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Umm Al Quwain, Fujairah, Ajman, and Ras Al Khaimah—can be checked via the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security. Job-seekers were strongly encouraged to verify their potential employers' details through official channels. In case of uncertainty, assistance can be sought from the Pakistan Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the Consulate-General of Pakistan.
'Details on labor laws and other regulations can be found on the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (Mohre) website. Candidates can utilize email and chat services for inquiries. For immigration and visa concerns, applicants can contact Amer Centers. For labor-related issues, Tasheel Centers are available to help Pakistanis in the UAE,' the advisory noted.
In the event of a crime or dispute, immediate police reporting is advised. Workplace violations should be reported to Mohre within one year of work permit cancellation. Keeping medical records, a valid passport, visa page copies, an updated employment contract, financial records, and employer and residence details readily accessible is crucial. These should also be shared with close family members in the UAE and Pakistan for emergency access.
Using official channels for money transfers between the UAE and Pakistan is recommended. 'It is vital to safeguard ID cards, SIM cards, passports, Emirates IDs, and email accounts. Be vigilant against online banking and credit card fraud. Acquiring life and medical insurance in both Pakistan and the UAE is also essential,' the consulate advised.
Moreover, all Pakistani employees should secure job loss insurance, known as the UAE's Involuntary Loss of Employment (ILOE) insurance. 'As overseas Pakistanis in the UAE, we represent our country. Adhering to the rules of the nation we reside in reflects positively not only on us individually but also on our entire country,' the Consul-General emphasized.
Approximately 1.7 million Pakistanis reside in the UAE, constituting the second-largest community in the Gulf country. Additionally, millions of tourists from Pakistan visit the Emirates annually. Sami Ullah Khan, Community Welfare Attache at the Pakistan Embassy in Abu Dhabi, urged people to share this video with friends and relatives, particularly those living in or planning to visit the UAE.
